Jump to: Request Support | Family Support Group | OPS Trainings | Meet Our Instructors | Events
.png)
Built BY First Responders, FOR First Responders
The award-winning NAMI North Texas OPS program is the first of its kind: in-person, no-cost, confidential, community-based, inter-agency peer support network for first responders. This innovative program provides a private option to take the first step towards mental health care, making it easier for first responders to seek help, prioritize their own well-being, and connect with vetted, culturally appropriate clinical care when necessary. Intended to be supplementary to intra-agency support teams, OPS serves as an additional resource to optimize first responder wellness and professional performance.
After more than a decade of experience working with law enforcement, NAMI North Texas developed the 16-hour, high quality, law enforcement peer support certification course in 2021-2022 with the help of the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute. Once a first responder completes this training, they receive an OPS certification and are eligible to provide 1-1 support to other first responders who request assistance through OPS. First responders are also trained to recognize when peer support is not enough, thus serving as bridges to professional mental health services that specialize in treating first responders.
During the summer of 2023, the OPS program expanded to all first responder professionals, including communications/dispatch, corrections, and civilian employees of law enforcement agencies, and fire/ems personnel.
In response to the increasing demand for our OPS Basic Course, we are implementing a new training fee policy tailored to accommodate the needs of first responders in and out of our service area. The new policy aims to balance accessibility with the quality of instructors, materials for the course, and ensuring that every first responder and their civilian colleagues receive valuable information from the course. By implementing this new approach, we are reaffirming our commitment to supporting those who dedicate their lives to public service, empowering them with the tools they need to prioritize their mental health and effectively serve those in need.
Help support first responder mental health in North Texas
Supporting first responder mental health in North Texas is crucial to ensure the well-being of those who tirelessly serve and protect our communities. Overwatch Peer Support has trained individuals across 35 departments and two federal agencies, extending their invaluable education and support to over 2549 individuals last year alone.
You can directly contribute to providing essential mental health support and resources to those utilizing OPS, and help first responders cope with the challenges they face daily. Your generosity can make a significant difference in enhancing the mental resilience and overall welfare of our North Texas first responders and their civilian colleagues. Your contribution is greatly appreciated!
Meet our Instructors
Revved Up Resilience Car Show
A community event dedicated to supporting first responder wellness
August 23, 2025 | 9 AM - 1 PM
5701 President George Bush Hwy Ste 110, Rowlett, TX 75089
About
Officer Carlos Henderson
Carlos has served with The Colony Police Department for 10 years and holds both an Advanced Peace Officer Certification and a Mental Health Officer Certification. He is a dedicated advocate for mental health, specializing in crisis intervention and support. Carlos is a member of the Texas CIT Association, a Star of Texas recipient, a Hostage Negotiator, and a Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Instructor.
For more information:
Contact Officer Henderson
NAMI North Texas Frontline Wellness Coordinator
NAMI North Texas First Responder Program Announces New Primary Partnership with The Colony Police Department