A Pathway to Healing: Recovering from PTSD
A Pathway to Healing
Recovering from PTSD
Presented by: Nicholas deSpoelberch & Mike Markette
Wednesday, June 11th - 7:00pm EST
June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 13 million adults in the United States experience PTSD in a given year.
On June 11, VOICES hosted an informative webinar about healing from stress and trauma. Those exposed to traumatic events are often at risk of developing symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress (PTSD). Nick deSpoelberch, LPC, from the Fairfield County Trauma Response Team, provided a comprehensive overview of the impact of trauma, including the symptoms of PTSD, the benefits of EMDR therapy, and opportunities for post-traumatic growth. The presentation included practical techniques and resources that support recovery and resilience.
Nick was joined by Sergeant Michael Markette of the Southbury Police Department. Sergeant Markette also leads his department’s Peer Support Program, which provides crucial emotional and mental health support to his fellow officers.
Attendees will be able to:
- Identify the signs of PTSD
- Recognize the science of trauma's action on the brain and the body
- Understand the benefits of EMDR treatment
- Identify techniques, resources, and a pathway towards post traumatic growth
About the Presenters
Nicholas deSpoelberch, LPC
EMDR Certified clinician, Clinical Director, Fairfield County Trauma Response Team
Nick deSpoelberch is a Licensed Professional Counselor and the owner of ND Counseling for Hope and Growth, a therapy practice in Stamford, CT. Nick is trained in CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and EMDR therapy.
Having worked in psychiatric hospitals, schools, residential treatment programs, intensive outpatient programs, and private practice, Nick has expertise in helping individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma (PTSD), and substance use disorders, and in couples & family therapy. Nick is an individual in recovery who shares his story often and is the author of a memoir/guide called A Second Act in Life. Nick has facilitated the weekly meetings of the New Canaan Parent Support Group since 2017, and volunteers for both Liberation Programs and the Fairfield County Trauma Response Team, where he is a Clinical Director. Prior to his counseling career, Nick worked as Dean of Students for Regis High School, NYC. He has an M.S. in Guidance and Counseling from the College of New Rochelle. Nick lives in Rowayton, CT, and is the proud father of three children: Liam, Quinn and Shay.
Mike Markette
Sergeant, Southbury Police Department
Mike Markette started his professional career with the Naugatuck Police Department in 2012. He currently serves as a Sergeant with the Southbury Police Department where he has dedicated 10 years of service. He also leads the department’s Peer Support Program, providing crucial, emotional and mental health support to his fellow officers.
Law enforcement runs in his family- his father, uncle, sister and brother-in-law are all either active or retired members of the profession. Outside the badge, Mike is a devoted husband and father, and avidly practices Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.