Overwatch Peer Support
NAMI offers the following free peer support for First Responders. If you need immediate help, call or text 988, or chat online with a trained counselor.
Overwatch peer support (OPS)
Built by First Responders. Backed by NAMI Syracuse
At Overwatch Peer Support (OPS), we understand the unique pressures faced by first responders, and we’re committed to providing a safe, confidential space where you can find support from those who truly understand. Our trained OPS peers are first responders themselves, dedicated to helping you navigate challenges, manage stress, and ensure you never have to struggle alone. Whether you’re a dispatcher, firefighter, EMS, law enforcement officer, corrections officer, or part of a crisis-response team in any role, OPS is here to serve you with compassion and understanding.
overwatch offers:
Peer Support. When internal teams aren’t the right fit or need backup, OPS is there – confidential, no rank, no red tape
Free OPS Peer Leader Training. We train your people (16-hour certification) or help build a peer support team from scratch.
Advanced & Ongoing Training Opportunities. Keep your leaders supported and growing beyond initial training.
Backup for Critical Incidents or Peer Overflow. We provide additional capacity when your team needs it most.
SUPPORT FOR THE FOLLOWING FIRST RESPONDERS:
Active or retired law enforcement
Full-time or volunteer fire & rescue
EMT or EMS, paid or volunteer
911 dispatch, communications, or crisis response
Corrections, parole, or probation
Civilian or clinical staff supporting crisis teams
Hospital-based professionals in crisis-facing roles
Military
Are you a First Responder seeking Peer Support?
Independent. Trusted. Led by Peers.
At Overwatch Peer Support (OPS), we understand the unique pressures faced by first responders, and we’re committed to providing a safe, confidential space where you can find support from those who truly understand. Our trained OPS peers are first responders themselves, dedicated to helping you navigate challenges, manage stress, and ensure you never have to struggle alone. OPS is here to serve you with compassion and understanding.
Every connection you make with OPS is confidential, independent of your agency, and rooted in our commitment to your well-being. Click below to get into the app and let us connect you with the support you need. You’re not alone — OPS is here for you.
OVERWATCH TRAINING TO HELP OTHERS
Want to support your peers? Train with us to become a certified OPS Peer Leader. Please check out the options below:
OPS Basic Certification
OPS Basics Training is a foundational, no-cost, 16-hour certification course designed to equip first responders with essential skills in peer support. This training prepares participants to provide confidential, compassionate support to their peers, recognize signs of crisis, and connect colleagues to additional resources when needed. Led by experienced instructors, OPS Basics is open to all first responder disciplines — including law enforcement, fire, EMS, dispatch, corrections, probation, and civilian agency staff
Completion of this course provides OPS certification; however, it does not guarantee membership as an Overwatch Peer Support Peer. For more information on joining as a certified peer, please see the application process for becoming a peer supporter in the OPS program.
Programs will be announced and sent out 4-6 weeks prior to the event date.
Next Training Dates: TBD. Sign up to be on the list for training dates
OPS Advanced Training
OPS Advanced Training offers a series of skill-building sessions designed to deepen the knowledge and capabilities of certified OPS peers. These sessions cover a variety of topics relevant to first responder peer support, with opportunities to learn from expert guest speakers and develop specialized techniques to better support colleagues. Building on the foundational skills acquired in OPS Basics, Advanced Training provides ongoing education and practical tools to address the evolving challenges faced by first responders. This program is ideal for those committed to further strengthening their peer support skills and fostering resilience within their teams.
Programs will be announced and sent out 4-6 weeks prior to the event date.
Get on the list to be notified
Join the OPS Volunteer Team
By becoming an OPS volunteer, you join a community of compassionate, dedicated individuals committed to improving the lives of first responders and their families. You’ll gain valuable skills, foster meaningful connections, and make a lasting difference in your community—all while being supported by the trusted name and resources of NAMI Syracuse.
OPS Peer Leaders are certified first responders trained to provide one-on-one peer support.
OPS Trainers lead our foundational OPS Basics Training sessions, equipping new volunteers with the knowledge and skills needed to serve as Peer Leaders.
OPS Facilitators lead our Overwatch Family Support groups, providing a safe, supportive environment for family members of first responders to connect. COMING SOON!
The Process. Assist with the application, training, interview and selection process for peers.
Sign up to be a Volunteer for the OPS Program.