First Responders Graduate with Mental Health Certificates

St. Petersburg College celebrates the graduation of its latest class of participants in the Applied Mental Health Advanced Technical Certificate program.

A completion ceremony will be held on Monday, May 18 at 3 p.m. at the Clearwater Campus, 2465 Drew St., recognizing active law enforcement officers who have completed the yearlong program designed to address mental health challenges faced by first responders.

The ceremony will feature keynote speaker John Violanti, a nationally recognized expert on police stress, trauma and suicide. A former New York State Police officer with 23 years of service, Violanti has authored more than 20 books and 150 peer-reviewed articles and continues to lead research on law enforcement mental health. He is presently a full research professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, N.Y.

Mental health remains a critical issue in public safety professions. Studies show that one in three law enforcement officers experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder during their careers, with suicide rates exceeding line-of-duty deaths.

“We’re proud to recognize this group of graduates who are stepping into leadership roles in mental health advocacy,” said Joseph Smiley, Dean of Social & Behavioral Sciences and Human Services. “This program not only strengthens individual well-being but also enhances the health and resilience of entire departments and communities.”

The program equips officers with the knowledge and skills needed to manage job-related stress, identify mental health concerns and support peers and community members in crisis. Graduates develop competencies in emotional intelligence, counseling techniques and resource navigation, and are prepared to serve as mental health liaisons within their agencies for a minimum of three years.

The Suncoast Police Benevolence Association, along with Chief Anthony Holloway of the St. Petersburg Police Department, remain as key stake holders and advocates for the program.

Since the inception of the program, the Pepin Family Foundation continues to be the major funder and plays a critical role by covering tuition costs and ensuring officers can access the program at no cost.

Graduate spotlight: Turning experience into purpose

Among this year’s graduates is Carlos Brito, a corporal with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, whose journey reflects the program’s impact.

Born in Brazil and now a husband and father of four, Brito immigrated to the United States more than 20 years ago and became the first in his family to attend college. He earned his bachelor’s degree from SPC and built a 13-year career in law enforcement.

While responding to a call in 2023, Brito was intentionally struck by a vehicle driven by a suspect, leaving him with severe injuries. His recovery included 17 surgeries and three infections, along with a long and difficult rehabilitation process. The incident became a life-altering moment that brought both physical and lasting mental challenges.

“My own struggles, along with a desire to help fellow first responders and their families, motivated me to enroll,” Brito said. Through the program, Brito gained a deeper understanding of trauma and its impact on individuals and families.

“It helped me recognize how what I was going through was affecting my family,” he said. “That awareness allowed me to make meaningful changes at home.”

He credits the coursework and faculty, including instructor Kim Molinaro, with helping shift his perspective.

“It opened my eyes to the reality of first responder suicide and helped me better understand the seriousness of issues I once thought were just part of the job,” he said. “It’s changed how I look out for and support others.”

Now graduating, Brito plans to raise awareness about mental health challenges among first responders and advocate for stronger support systems. “You are not alone,” he said. “Reach out to a friend, a peer or a professional. There are people who care and want to help.”

Building stronger communities through education

Through programs like this, SPC continues to play a vital role in workforce development and community well-being across Tampa Bay. The College is also exploring expansion of the program to serve Fire and Rescue first responders, further strengthening its impact.

As SPC approaches its 100th year anniversary in 2027, the Applied Mental Health Certificate reflects the College’s ongoing commitment to preparing students not only for careers but for leadership and service in their communities.

For more information about enrolling officers into the Applied Mental Health Certificate program for first responders, contact Dr. Latresha Moore, Human Services Program Director at bighemmoore.latresha@spcollege.edu or (727) 497-5015.