Marlboro, MD

IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery

The IAFF Center of Excellence is a flagship recovery center where IAFF members can heal from behavioral health conditions.

Google Rating

4.9

Based on 853 reviews

IAFF Center of Excellence

4.9

1740086658

Absolutely wonderful facility. When I arrived I was a broken man, a total slave to my addiction. In the 30+ days of time there I became a new man. I was given the tools, the medical care, and support from my peers that made my healing virtually inevitable. If you're struggling and have any doubts about the COE, cast them aside. This place changed my life.

P.S. The food is great.

1738864669

The COE is more than just a “place”. You’re told from the get go, “We have you from here” and no truer words have been spoken. The staff here truly do care about you and go above and beyond, for everyone. To the clinicians, Physicians, the BHT’s, Ms. Vonnie, David, you all really do save lives. Each and every day. If you’re reading this, on the fence about coming here, do it. Leave no stone unturned, leave it all there. You are the author of your own book, get here and Turn The Page.

1738781603

The center of excellence changed my life! I thought I had my anxiety and PTSD under control until I didn’t. They gave me the tools and the environment to help me thrive. Highly recommend this place.

1738781058

Such an amazing life changing place. From the staff and fire family I met there.

1738781015

Place is amazing at understanding what firefighters go through and get hung up on throughout our careers and help us navigate and understand how to get better.

1738779693

This place saved my life. I’ve been to many treatment centers and none can compare. The nurses, therapists, counselors, staff, and of course the clients are all amazing! The groups are excellent mostly because of our common experiences combined with knowledgeable counselors. Intense therapy with my peers dealing with ptsd and mental health was the key for me. I never received this type of help even at the VA. The facility itself was top notch! The living quarters are reminiscent of the fire house. The food is tasty and healthy with a lots of choices. The gym was great I worked out everyday and got back to my fighting weight. I can’t recommend this place enough. If you’re struggling with substance abuse, ptsd or mental health this place could save your life!
Anthony FDNY ret.

1738761327

Great place, good food. The staff here really cares about you.

1738373020

The COE saved my life. The person I was before my time in treatment and the person I am now are light years different.

1738334137

I came to the COE not truly understanding my behavioral health and what was happening to me. I was working on my treatment for 2.5 months and took advantage of every facet that the center offers.the grounds were very accommodating. It seemed conducive for healing, I felt a great feeling of spirituality energy in the air.
I left knowing the work I put in helped, but I would need to continue my care without the protection of the COE grounds. The transition is tricky but the tools have kept me improving. Don’t give up on yourself! Reach out if you need support.

My therapist and healthcare team were genuine and kept it real! They were wonderful, beautifully human women.
I was allowed to be myself, which I’ve never exposed to fellow firefighters and the acceptance was overwhelming. I became Master of ceremonies for 8 graduations which allowed me to showcase my love for my brothers and sisters and to be there at the end of their on campus treatment.
When I returned I continued to expose that to my fire department, and I feel better about it.
Be aware that you may find out As one of my departments Peer support members and my work with mobile integrated health, I came back with a 80% increase in empathy and understanding addictions.

Thank you for all you’ve done!!!

1738266782

1738265820

I went to the Center of excellence in 2022 and 2023. The difference between my two visits was in 2023. I listen to everything they said I paid attention. I learned about PTSD and when I left the facility, I followed all of her instructions continuing my therapy twice a week, going to my NA meetings, going to a slower firehouse and building a network of men around me to keep me on the right path which in fact turned out to be the guys I Worked with the longest and guys you would never expect stepped up and held me accountable. I can say now I'm living a life that I didn't even know existed or even something to dream about because you have no idea the kind of freedom you can get in the hell that we've all been trapped in so if you're lucky enough to make it to the center of excellence I'll tell you this and then shut up. It's basically a tourniquet on a hemorrhaging wound to stop the bleeding stabilize you give you all the tools necessary for when you leave because when you leave that's when the real work starts and you have to go see the brain, surgeon or neurosurgeon to repair the damage arteries so you can enjoy the rest of your life. I no longer have Nonstop, intrusive thoughts From all the trauma, I have seen over a 22 year career DCFD But I also don't have Intrusive thoughts about suicidal ideation's In any way Whatsoever. I'll say this and then try to shut up When you leave the COE The best group of men to help you even though your mind And the culture you grew up in, tells you Not to talk to the guys you work with. Believe me when I tell you, those guys will support you and relate to what you're going through more than anyone else. You'll probably be scared and have anxiety about Talking to them and opening up. But trust me, I did it And I walk through that fear and now have stronger Relationships with these guys then I've ever had.

1738198078

Wow, where do I even begin. The Center of Excellence (COE) and staff has given me the Hope and Inspiration for life, I truly never could expected. It has was Educational, Stimulating and very much Worthwhile... to say the least.
Lets start with the people who keep the Coe running like a well oiled machine. The BHT's, create a positive and professional attitudes for "The Clients" @ COE. They provide must of our comfort items and go beyond expectations To help create the atmosphere as Homey as possible. Sherica Hanson, Francis Kanu, Beverly Vital, Marlon Mason, Adeyinka Davies, Pamela Sharpe, Harrison Lockear, Thomas Hollaway, Ethiopia Abebe and Lakisha Rhodes to name a few of the BHT's.
The doctors are Extraordinarily on top of their game and top notch! Super knowledgeable, caring, trusting and make the clients feel secure/safe. I can say for myself, I was scared, lonely, confused, helpless and insignificant!!! Dr. Abby Morris lowered my anxiety when I first talked and met with her. She gave me feel relaxed and valuable. thank you Dr. Morris... we talked about gypsies and other things not related to my issues that gave me a sense of value and hope I needed, without even trying. Dr.Latte was the funniest and stern. Dr.Korman has the calming and nurturing sides that totally makes people relaxed and at ease. Zero feelings of being in the principals office. Quite the opposite!
David (Dave) Thomas is very easy to talk and interact with. He is not the CEO of Wendy's... but is the CEO of the COE... lol... Dave also cared about the clients and would be outside during class changes to ask how everyone is doing. He was very present and interactive.
I will say, NOTHING happens at the COE with out Jevonnah (Ms. Vonnie) Coleman. It doesn't matter the question, concern or issue a client may have... Vonnie is the Go TO Lady... without a doubt. She loves us all, as if we were her own children. Definitly can not say enough GREAT things about Ms.Vonnie.
Nurse Rachel and Allo Peterkin were the go to nurses for anything Medicine... lol. They did their jobs effortlessly and were always cheerful.
We had it easy around the COE... the cleaning crew and cooks keep us happy and clean. The food was absolutely beyond expectations. Not one bad meal for 43 days... impressive cooking staff (Terrie, Brandon, Von, Dominic and Mr.Cook). We never had to clean up our messes. we did clean our own cloths but not the facility!! Special thanks to kitchen staff and cleaning crew. Awesome job! Thank you.
The clinicians are exceptional individuals. How they keep everything together is amazing. The tools and knowledge they provide is life changing. They all play a very important roll in the clients success! They are the Backbone of the COE. From Courtney, Claudette, Kimberly, Grace, Robin, Raina Burlek. these are just a few I can remember. They all touch ALL of the clients in ways they can't understand. Such positivity and energy portrayed by the clinicians. Thank all of the Clinicians for everything yall do!!
Kaitlyn and Raina had a special and major impact on my recovery. Kaitlyn's SGB shot and Raina Burlek"s EMDR treatments were my saving grace. I never would have thought I had PTSD, never mind how intensely it was impacting my Life in a negative manner.
The EMDR treatments have been totally life changing. Raina B. was my clinician for the treatments. She must be the EMDR Master. It seemed like a "Hokus-Pokus" style treatment. The very first session made a noticeable difference. The reprocessing actually worked. Major stuck point, no longer an issue. How I remembered the incident totally changed in a positive manner. Raina was easy to work with, she explained the process in a way I could understand. I was able to relax during the sessions. She has a creative style that makes you trust and believe in her. Which creates an overwhelming sense of Trust. Thanks Raina Burlek you helped change my life in so many ways! thank you!
Special Thanks to the IAFF. The support received from this facility has been Tremendous. Again, Thanks everyone.

1738098402

I had an outstanding experience at the Center of Excellence. From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel welcomed and supported. The environment is professional yet warm, and you can really tell they are dedicated to helping their clients achieve their goals. The services offered are top-notch, and I left feeling confident and empowered. Highly recommend this place to any firefighter looking for quality care and exceptional service

1737752492

My family was excited to see that I’m back to their dad and husband. The program was my second rehab and was extraordinary. Being in that environment and having the true feeling of openness was the difference. All of the personnel made the stay easy. There was no negative vibe or look. I could only wish I would have been able to go there back in February instead of the other rehab. I would have been back to normal then. I can’t be more thankful for the help. Thanks

1737147049

Mrs V. Is the #1 most kindhearted, genuine and caring person that you’ll encounter there .
There’s so many good staff members there.

1736880772

The facilities and staff are awesome with a focus on the specific needs of those working in Fire/EMS.

1736545034

This place saved my life. Specifically for IAFF members and retirees.

1736539113

1736538875

The center was very helpful. I wasn't super happy with my personal therapist or the family therapist. The firefighters there were a great support. The trauma team including Hue were exceptional.

1736537964

In a firefighters line of work, we all know that we are there to help those in need at a moments notice. The time will come for any of us..rookies to veterans of this profession will need the same type of quick response. Mental health was never a thought that crossed my mind until it all finally caught up and reread it's head. I was headed into a bad place. So glad the COE was in existence for me when,I myself was seeking help. They make you feel right at home and the staff is second to none! If you are struggling with depression.. anxiety or PTSD, this is your safe haven. I highly recommend it.

1736537819

Prior to visiting the COE, I had been battling PTSD for years. I came there from another facility that specializes in treatment. I was completely broken. After 42 days of treatment, I left the Coe feeling happy for the 1st time in a long while.
The staff also made sure I had follow-up care when I returned home.
1 year later, I am enjoying work again. I am happy and content.
None of this would have been possible without the COE

1736537615

The IAFF COE changes lives. The entire staff here genuinely care about the people they see and are great at what they do. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to be. I appreciate my time here more than a review can explain.

1736350030

Great facility. Staff makes you feel welcome from the start. Every staff member genuinely cares about you. No complaints from me.

1735875007

The COE is a safe haven for brothers and sisters who are dealing with the exact same issues you are

1735846247

Highly recommend! Life changing! Quality professionals with a desire for success!

1735846231

This place truly changed my life! The program as a whole is one a kind. I never thought anything would help me! Thank you to all the staff! I owe this program! If you have mental health or substance issues and have no other answer, this place is it!!

1735274633

When I arrived at the Center Of Excellence I was not in a good space mentally. I was met at my car by brothers that have been there receiving help from the COE. It was a welcoming feeling to talk to fire fighter that struggle with the same thing as I. Every minute of everyday at the COE was filled with recovery methods from experienced clinicians that helped me be able to have a much better life when I get back home. I just want my brothers and sisters to know that they are not alone, and that the Center of Excellence is the place that first responders can go for help and be with their own people.
My experience there with the loving staff was beyond great and I recommend the COE to all firefighters that are struggling.
Thanks, John

1735267898

The IAFF center of excellence was a great experience. The staff, the nurses, the doctors all had a great impact on my life. The professionally held groups and activities allowed for healing.

1735238501

This was just the place I needed in my time of need.

1735230911

This is a place of healing and compassion. There are great people here that can help you when you are down and probably in the worst place of your life. They can show you there is a way out. There is always a way out of your depression anxiety as well as your PTSD. Your peers are also here to help. Every patient is also part of a unique support group that is not obtainable anywhere else. This is a place where others that are hurting can listen to you and give you compassion and understanding and have probably experienced similar difficulties.

1735230071

The IAFF Center of Excellence was a life changing experience for me. They really think of everything, and support you 100% every step of the way. The staff is amazing, from the cleaning crew, who I've had some great conversations with, to the BHTs and clinicians, and all the way to the man himself Mark. I was in a very dark place before going to the COE. If you see this and you're struggling and looking for help with a way forward out of your dark place, THIS is your sign to reach out to someone with the Center of Excellence today and step into the life you deserve. You deserve to be happy, and it is 100% possible! Whether you're a firefighter
who struggles with mental health or alcohol/substance, this is the place to go whether you have 1 year or 30+ years on, they will get you right.

1735228863

Awesome facility!! Staff is 2nd to none and the peer support was excellent! Highly recommend, whatever your Vice.

1735058900

1734647974

The IAFF COE is a family of people who strive to help fellow firefighters and EMS through a number of substance abuse and mental health conditions. I personally got the chance to go and benefit from their services Fall-Winter 2024. My life has been forever changed by the many patients and staff who were and continue to be a part of my continuous journey in healing.

From the time you get there to the time you leave, the Front Desk Manager (Ms. Vonnie), Admin Supervisor (Sam) and CEO (David) give you a warm welcome and are more than happy to assist with any questions you may have!

The Nursing Staff (Kim, Brandi, Cassandra, Raheal, Beverly, Rachel, and Katrina) provide excellent care in ensuring all your medications are safe and available during several hours of the day. Each of them were personable toward me and my needs and provided an extra sense of care when it came to the times I required medications for something as small as a migraine or mild anxiety attack.

I got the privilege to meet with most of the Medical Staff, (Dr. Late, Dr. Korman, Dr. Abby, and Kaelyn) who provided the best combination of medications I needed to manage my diagnosis. They constantly checked in to ensure everything was working to my liking.

Everyone on the Clinical Staff (Claudette, Remi, Tiffany, Kimberly, Shelby, Raina, Janae, Robin, Ashley, Kortney, Alanna, Grace, Dan, Pat, Kristi, and Kie-aire) was amazing in teaching classes, challenging me, and provided engaging topics to assist with real life issues I will encounter on and off the job. I am able to use the skills learned to tackle everyday life hurdles and overcome many challenges. Claudette was my personal clinician and I applaud her for dealing with my push back and never giving up on me!

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) Team (Sherica, Pam, Allo, Eti, Francis, Makenzie, Harrison, Andrea, LaKeisha, Daija, Nay, Darnell, Thomas, Marlon, Jonathan, Terry, Nick, and Tomika) did an amazing job making me feel like family. Being that I was the only African American female here at the time of my stay, they did an amazing job welcoming me and continuously reassuring me that I am not alone. That was something that really touched me and I was greatly appreciative of this.

Both the Kitchen Staff (Terrie, Von, Brandon, Dominic, and Chad) and the Cleaning Staff (Juan Jose, Erick, Khaterine, and Sonia) also do a great job to ensure everything is tidy, clean, and our bellies are nice and full.

I again am forever thankful for the family and friends I made here, and have nothing but AMAZING things to say about this facility! I would be happy to recommend this place to any and all fellow Fire & EMS in need! Thank you to any staff seeing this review and keep up the good work because you all know what you are doing and are doing GREAT!

1734638603

My only complaint would be that all decisions seem to go through one person. This also appears to be for medical reasons.

1734632233

The COE is the place to go for any firefighter who is struggling with any mental health or substance abuse.

It took 3yrs before I decided that I could not battle my ptsd and addiction to alcohol anymore,I was going to lose!

I would not have lasted more tha1 day at a conventional rehab facility. This place makes you feel comfortable from the moment you get there. I was there for 38 days and I don't regret 1 minute. If you are struggling and need help don't hesitate to call and get help. The Center of Excellence saved my life!!

Best,Wally Lowe

1734627212

The COE is an amazing place that provides great support and comfort for self-healing with guidance. I would recommend this place to anyone in my family and friends who needs help. You make amazing connections with all sorts of individuals and counselors. If you're thinking about going, you’re taking the right steps in the proper direction. Take care, and God Bless.

1734026751

The COE changed my life. I now know how to process my trauma and be a better person all around. The staff is great and all of them care for you.

1733448121

COE , HELPED ME NAVIGATE THRU A DIFFICULT TIME IN MY LIFE !!! I HAVE BENEFITED FROM THE EXPERIENCE !!!

1733437769

Wonderful place and staff. Left feeling like a new person.

1733435628

I wasted half of my life excessively using alcohol. During that time, I was so anxious I didn’t know what normal felt like. After putting my trust into the clinicians, my peers, and graduating, I feel like a completely new person. The staff is amazing. The facility is clean. The food is good. If you are an iaff member and need mental health or substance abuse help, COME HERE!

1733430883

Magical place, I came out of here a much better and different person. Would highly recommend to anyone with any type of addiction

1733427207

Would recommend to any first responder struggling with PTSD. Staff and counselors are amazing.

1733425358

If you’re broken and beaten by life, your job, expectations, failure, family, or even just the road in general, the center of excellence has a solution. You will have to work but they will give you every tool to succeed in that work.
Every single person on that campus from the second they see you, wants you to succeed and be healthy. They want you thrive and overcome whatever adversaries you have. You can take off your worries, give it to them, and let them lead you to victory.
The Lord dwells in this place whether believe it or not. The healing that happens here couldn’t happen anywhere else.

1733425314

Amazing experience!!! A place for IAFF Firefighters to come and learn about their trauma and addictions but more importantly how to regain confidence while among peers with similar concerns.

1733424909

Doing well retired and Becouse of all of you there learned how to injoy llike and all it has to offer miss all the friend that I made there hope all are doing well!!!

1733424872

Thank God the IAFF implemented this program!! I had no where to go and this saved me!

1733424766

Are you suffering from substance abuse, mental health issues or PTSD?
Are you a Firefighter or Emergency Responder?
Have you or a loved one realized you need help?
This 35 year Firefighter did and came to the COE
The Clinicians, Therapists, Support and Administrative staff are second to none!
The facility and grounds are comfortable and well thought out. Conducive for interaction and open dialogue.
If you put in the work and use the tools they provide. You will be on the road to recovery!

More reviews

“After getting my life-changing treatment, I can now be home with a clear feeling in my brain, and not have to worry about if I will live through the day.”

John Bates, IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery Alumni

Facility Overview

Through a partnership between the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) and Advanced Recovery Systems, a nationwide leader in rehabilitation and behavioral health, the IAFF Center of Excellence is a flagship recovery center where IAFF members can heal from behavioral health conditions.

The first of its kind, the IAFF Center of Excellence offers treatment exclusively for fire fighters, dispatchers and first responders. We offer treatment for mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complicated grief, along with rehab for drug and alcohol abuse.

Located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, the IAFF Center for Excellence is approximately 30 minutes from Washington, DC, and an hour from Dulles International Airport. Designed with fire fighters in mind, our 15-acre campus is ideal for focusing on treatment and recovery. Our dual-diagnosis rehab programs balance medical support with mental health counseling, while our recreational therapies facilitate whole-person healing.

The IAFF Center of Excellence is accredited by The Joint Commission, a member of the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers, and licensed by the state of Maryland for both substance abuse treatment and mental health treatment.

Levels of Care

Clinically Managed Detox

During this level of care, clients work through withdrawal symptoms under the supervision of medical professionals.

Residential Treatment

Also known as inpatient treatment, residential treatment is the most intensive level of care after medical detox, with continued monitoring while living at the facility full-time.

Partial Hospitalization Programming

Partial hospitalization is a step down from intensive rehab like detox and inpatient care.

Intensive Outpatient Programming

During intensive outpatient treatment, clients usually live off-site at a facility but are dedicated to preparing for life after rehab.

Outpatient Programming

In outpatient programming, clients live at home or in a sober living home and commute to rehab during the week.

Aftercare Planning

Outline each client’s next steps after their treatment ends, including follow-up appointments and recommendations for nearby support groups.

Clinically Managed Detox

During this level of care, clients work through withdrawal symptoms under the supervision of medical professionals.

Residential Treatment

Also known as inpatient treatment, residential treatment is the most intensive level of care after medical detox, with continued monitoring while living at the facility full-time.

Partial Hospitalization Programming

Partial hospitalization is a step down from intensive rehab like detox and inpatient care.

Intensive Outpatient Programming

During intensive outpatient treatment, clients usually live off-site at a facility but are dedicated to preparing for life after rehab.

Outpatient Programming

In outpatient programming, clients live at home or in a sober living home and commute to rehab during the week.

Aftercare Planning

Outline each client’s next steps after their treatment ends, including follow-up appointments and recommendations for nearby support groups.

About This Facility

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Facility Amenities

Swimming pool
Exercise gym
Basketball court
Sand volleyball court
Walking trails
Pickleball
Yoga
Foosball table
Ping pong table
Video games

Other

Vapes Allowed

Off-site field trips

Available amenities and activities may differ depending on the level of care.

Accepted Insurance

The IAFF Center of Excellence is in-network with most major insurance carriers including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, and United.

If you don’t have health insurance or your coverage is limited, that shouldn’t prevent you from accessing care. The IAFF Center of Excellence offers private pay options to accommodate your needs.

We are simplifying the health insurance verification process with our online system, allowing you to verify your benefits in seconds. By streamlining the insurance verification process, we connect you to the care you need, as quickly as possible.

Our online insurance verification tool is HIPAA-compliant, so your information stays completely confidential.

IAFF Center of Excellence Reviews

Such an amazing life changing place. From the staff and fire family I met there.

Patrick Lefebvre

Place is amazing at understanding what firefighters go through and get hung up on throughout our careers and help us navigate and understand how to get better.

Bill W

Our Team

Marisa Hall, RN

Director of Nursing

Remi Benson, MA, LCPC, C-EMDRT, C-DBT, C-SRT

Clinical Director

Dr. Abby Morris, MD

Medical Director

David Thomas MBA, MPA, BSN, RN, FACHE, CEN, RN-BC

Site CEO

Marisa Hall, RN

Director of Nursing

Remi Benson, MA, LCPC, C-EMDRT, C-DBT, C-SRT

Clinical Director

Dr. Abby Morris, MD

Medical Director

David Thomas MBA, MPA, BSN, RN, FACHE, CEN, RN-BC

Site CEO

FAQs

Is rehab confidential?

Yes, rehab at the IAFF Center of Excellence is always confidential, and your presence here will only be disclosed to the people you choose. Your union leaders, fellow fire fighters, friends and family members will not be informed of your treatment without your consent.

Is cell phone use allowed during treatment?

Cell phones will be securely stored upon arrival and returned at discharge. Following an initial adjustment period upon arrival, clients may use our facility’s phones three times a week.

Will the IAFF Center of Excellence pay for traveling to rehab?

No, our facility does not pay for transportation to or from the center, but representatives can help clients coordinate travel arrangements, if necessary.

Read About Traveling to Rehab

How long does rehab last at the IAFF Center of Excellence?

Treatment program lengths at the IAFF Center of Excellence vary depending on each client’s needs. We understand that many fire fighters and first responders may be concerned about time spent away from their jobs, but typically, the longer a person stays in treatment, the better equipped they are to handle life after rehab.

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IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery

Facility Overview

Levels of Care

Clinically Managed Detox

Residential Treatment

Partial Hospitalization Programming

Intensive Outpatient Programming

Outpatient Programming

Aftercare Planning

About This Facility

Facility Amenities

Other

Accepted Insurance

IAFF Center of Excellence Reviews

Our Team

FAQs

Contact Details

Medical Disclaimer

About

Locations

What We Treat

Admissions

Menu

Paying for Treatment

Insurance Providers

Getting Admitted

Admissions Resources

For Loved Ones

Addiction Treatment

Mental Health Treatment

Addictions We Treat

About

Reviews & Testimonials

Get in Touch

Assessments

Specific Guides

Mental Health Resources

Other

State Rehab Guides

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