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Tag Archives: Chesterfield County Fire and EMS Department

Leadership, Change, and High‑Trust Conversations

May 7, 2026 Leave a comment

By: Robert Avsec, Executive Fire Officer I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Chris Voss for an in‑depth conversation about leadership, organizational change, and what it really takes to lead people through uncertainty in a Fire and EMS environment. In this interview, we explored themes from my book, Successful Transformational Change in a Fire and EMS Department: How ...

Customer Care Program Still Going Strong for Virginia Fire and EMS Department

July 26, 2016 2 Comments

Progressive fire and EMS departments have long recognized that a good customer care program has many benefits for the citizens they serve and for their departments. Chesterfield County's Fire and EMS Department is one such department.

The Fire Service Psychology Association (FSPA) membership includes fire service leaders, psychologists, and masters-level mental health clinicians (e.g., LCSW, LPC, MFT) who are committed to "building a bridge between professional psychology and the fire service.
Two primary elements of that "bridge" are (1) developing Culturally Competent Clinicians and (2) developing a true understanding of the 5 domains of psychology (Assessments, Intervention, Industrial/Organizational, Operations, and Consultation) and what how they can improve the mental and behavioral health of firefighters and EMS personnel.
It’s essential to practice self-care and check in with yourself regularly. Be aware of how you’re feeling, especially after difficult shifts. Don’t let symptoms of trauma or stress reach a dangerous level. Visit the FSPA website, www.firepsychology.org for more information, including how you can join the effort to "build the bridge!"