Peer Support Networks, Inc.

Peer Support Networks, Inc. (formerly PVJ Consulting) was founded by Paul V. Jockimo to provide support to governmental agencies and emergency response organizations in setting up new Peer Support teams and networks. The services include consulting on Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), Line of Duty Death (LODD), team building and development, as well as motivational programs. Peer Support Networks audiences generally consist of Emergency Services providers (such as Law Enforcement, Fire Service and Emergency Medical Services), Military personnel, Mental Health providers, School and Hospital-based personnel and Clergy or faith-based providers. However, corporations and non-profits can derive benefit from customized programs as well.

Paul V. Jockimo's experience includes the following:

• Over 30 years in Emergency Services
• President Westchester Putnam Peer Support Team
• Past President, Hudson Valley CISM
  
• President, CISM Network of New York State
• Faculty Member, International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF)
• Co-Coordinator, World Trade Center CISM Support Services

Paul V. Jockimo has been approved as an Instructor by the ICISF in the following courses:

• CISM, Group Crisis Intervention
• CISM, Advanced Group Crisis Intervention
• CISM, Individual Crisis Intervention and Peer Support
• Strategic Response to Crisis
• From Trauma to Addictions
• Line of Duty Death (Co-Author)

When Paul was just seven, he was given the opportunity to help people with physical differences feel accepted and overcome challenges. As the subject of photojournalist Bernard Wolf's book "Don't Feel Sorry for Paul," Paul's story of adapting to life as a congenital quad amputee (Paul has just one finger, one thumb and one toe) was powerfully told through photos and narrative. In 1974, and in the decades that followed, his story was ground breaking and inspired thousands to strive to achieve their potential and live a happy life. Paul's triumphs over his physical challenges paved the way for the peer support work he does today.  His external differences helped form his deep compassion. He has a unique perspective on life that enables him to help others in the darkest of hours. Through his differences, we are given the gift of empathy and motivation.

In addition to being recognized as a leader in the field of Critical Incident Stress Management and Line of Duty Death, Paul V. Jockimo is well-known across the United States as a highly respected, moving and humorous motivational speaker. He is currently working on his first book about his experiences.