The Art of Intervention
Daniel DeGryse
Establishing trust and a strong connection with anyone, especially a first responder may present challenges. Utilizing his forty years in the clinical arena and career in the fire service, Dan will share insights into considerations and approaches clinicians, chaplains, peer supporters, and family will find helpful when engaging with an individual deliberating change in his/her behavior. He will offer techniques that assist in creating an atmosphere of understanding to boost the individual's level of comfort, willingness to engage, and promote trust throughout the interaction(s).
About Daniel DeGryse
Dan currently is a consultant with Recovery Ways. Previously, he was in the fire service where he retired as a battalion chief after a 30-year career in the Chicago Fire Department. During the same period, he also has worked in the field of behavioral health since 1986 after earning his bachelor's degree in psychology. He applied his education along with his fire career and individual experiences to lead the Chicago Firefighters Union employee assistance program and peer support team for fourteen years.
Throughout his journey in behavioral health and as a clinician he has earned certifications as a substance use counselor, certified employee assistance professional, and certified interventionist. Dan has worked with many organizations in the role of a trusted advisor, curriculum developer and instructor for the International Association of Firefighters, National Council for Mental Wellbeing, Responder Strong, and the Illinois Fire Service Institute.
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