PSP RISE is a free provincial mental health service designed specifically for Manitoba’s public safety personnel (PSP). The service provides accessible, evidence-based mental health supports tailored to the unique realities of operational work and the stressors experienced by those who serve and protect our communities.
- Self-directed online mental wellness and resilience programs (CBTm)
- Live virtual and in-person psychoeducational classes (CBTm)
- Evidence-based group interventions
- Individual psychotherapy and psychiatric consultation
- Medication consultation and management
- Navigation support to help individuals connect with appropriate care
Importantly, individuals can self-refer and access support when they need it, without requiring a formal referral from another provider.
Why the service was created
Public safety personnel play a critical role in keeping Manitobans safe and healthy. Police officers, firefighters, paramedics, dispatch and communications staff, border services personnel, corrections staH, and other PSP professionals are regularly exposed to high levels of stress and potentially traumatic events as part of their operational roles.
Recognizing the growing need for accessible and specialized mental health care for these communities, the Government of Manitoba partnered with Shared Health and the CBTm Hub at the University of Manitoba to develop a service specifically designed for PSP mental health and wellness.
- Making mental health support easy to access
- Reducing barriers and stigma related to seeking care
- Providing prevention-focused supports alongside intervention services
- Offering evidence-based care tailored to PSP experiences
- Creating flexible options that individuals can access when and how they choose
PSP RISE was developed in collaboration with public safety communities and continues to be informed by the voices and experiences of those it serves.
Who can join?
Anyone currently or formerly working in public safety, whether as a police officer, firefighter, paramedic, correctional officer, dispatcher, or another similar role.
No mental health diagnosis is required to register.
Referral from a healthcare professional is not needed.
What are the current options for accessing CBTm?
Currently, the CBTm program offers two options for accessing classes tailored to Public Safety Personnel:
Option 1. Facilitator-led CBTm classes
- Classes are led by a trained clinician and held virtually over Zoom. Sessions are approximately 90 minutes long and occur once per week for 5 weeks.
- The classes include a PowerPoint presentation in lecture format. Participants are encouraged to discuss and ask the facilitator questions if they feel comfortable.
- Skills practice will be assigned weekly. Participants are welcome to bring one support person to attend the classes.
- Note: The facilitator-led classes offered are currently for the general adult population.
Option 2. Web-based CBTm course
- Participants will have access to a 5 class, web-based, self-guided CBTm course that is customized to the public safety personnel population. The course has been created to mirror the facilitator-led CBTm classes.
- Each class will take approximately 90 minutes to complete. Material may be completed in a single sitting, or the participant can choose to pause the session and return to it at a later time.
- Skills practice will be assigned at the end of each class. A new class will be available 1 week after completion of the prior class material.
Testimonials on CBTm
“The course helped me recognize things in myself that I want to change, and it has given me the tools to start practicing that, and I am grateful for that new information. Thank you.”
“Workplaces need to incorporate these practices into shifts/education.”
“I found this experience very informative and I’m confident I now have the tools to self-manage occupational stress injuries.”