While in Washington, D.C. for the IAFF Legislative Conference in early March 2026, members of Professional Firefighters of Sonoma County, IAFF Local 1401, took the opportunity to visit the IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

This one-of-a-kind facility, located just outside the nation’s capital, is the first treatment center built by firefighters, for firefighters. It provides specialized, confidential care exclusively for IAFF members — including professional firefighters, paramedics, and dispatchers — who are struggling with PTSD, trauma, substance use, addiction, depression, anxiety, and other behavioral health challenges.

What Happens at the IAFF Center of Excellence?

The Center offers comprehensive, evidence-based inpatient treatment tailored to the unique experiences of the fire service. Key features include:

Culturally competent care delivered by clinicians who understand the firehouse culture and the cumulative trauma of the job.

Individualized treatment plans addressing co-occurring issues like PTSD and substance abuse.
A supportive, firehouse-like environment with station-style living quarters, group therapy, recreational activities, and peaceful outdoor spaces surrounded by pine forest.

Medical detox, residential rehab, and a focus on helping members return stronger to their careers, families, and communities.

Full confidentiality — staff cannot share any information with departments, families, or others without the member’s explicit permission.

Since opening in 2017, the Center has helped more than 1,100 IAFF members take the first steps toward recovery. It is accredited by the Joint Commission and works with most major insurance providers.

Our Local 1401 delegation saw firsthand the high level of care and the powerful impact this facility is making. Seeing the dedicated staff, the thoughtful design of the campus, and hearing about the life-changing recoveries reinforced how critical it is that our union continues investing in behavioral health resources.

Breaking the Stigma – It’s Okay to Ask for Help

Firefighters run toward chaos every shift and carry the weight of what they see. Too often, that burden is carried in silence. The IAFF Center of Excellence exists to change that. It sends a clear message from our union: You are not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength.

If you or a brother or sister is struggling, help is available 24/7. The admissions team is trained to support IAFF members and their families with compassion and without judgment.

Contact the IAFF Center of Excellence:

Phone: (855) 900-8437 or (301) 358-0192

Website: iaffrecoverycenter.com

As Local 1401, we are proud to stand behind programs like this that truly take care of our members — on and off the job. Our mission doesn’t end at the firehouse door or in front of a church for our fallen. It includes making sure every member knows there is a safe place to heal when they need it most.

Thanks to the entire delegation for representing Sonoma County and taking the time to learn more about this vital resource. We’ll continue spreading the word back home.

It’s okay to ask for help. Reach out — your IAFF family has your back.

Professional Firefighters of Sonoma County, IAFF Local 1401

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