Quakenbush
Hamilton County Sheriff Dennis Quakenbush says he is proud to announce the establishment of a Wellness Unit at the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
“While our men and women are focused on keeping our community safe, they unfortunately experience tragic, difficult and highly stressful situations on a regular basis,” said Quakenbush. “Partnering with our employees in their physical, mental, and spiritual health will help ensure we are taking care of those who are looking out for our safety.”
Michelle Furgason and Susan Sherer-Vincent partnered with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office to establish the new Wellness Unit. Furgason is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate and a National Certified Counselor. Sherer-Vincent’s resumé includes: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Certified Alcoholism Counselor.
On top of that, both women have master’s degrees and are Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Sherer-Vincent
Furgason
“These qualifications are impressive, but their unique focus on serving first responders is even more advantageous,” said Quakenbush.
Deputies, Correctional Officers, as well as civilian employees all deal with trauma, which is inflicted upon them from working in the realm of law enforcement. The entire staff will receive training related to mindfulness, depression, suicide prevention, resiliency, PTSD, critical incidents, vicarious trauma, addiction and officer wellness.
“I wish to thank all of our elected leaders who helped make this new initiative possible,” said Quakenbush. “This Wellness Unit will help keep our staff’s mental health a priority along with striving to improve our already exceptional ability to be resilient. It is a proactive solution to a complex problem, and it would not have been possible without the full support of our County Council and County Commissioners.”