Speaker Name: Const. David Kleinb & Const. Amy Macleod
Session Description:
Exposure to trauma is ubiquitous. Following adverse experiences, some may experience
persisting psychological and physical symptoms associated with trauma, at times overwhelming their ability to cope. This may result in alcohol or substance use or even the development of a substance-related mood/anxiety disorder, PTSD, or another psychological injury. This increases the risk of protracted personal suffering, self-harm, adverse occupational impact, and prolonged disability.
Key components of an appropriate response are early identification, assessment, and
engagement in the appropriate level of care, followed by ongoing monitoring in safety-sensitive and decision-critical occupational roles.
Recovery, however, does not end at the point of achieving abstinence and sobriety, or remission from any diagnosed mental disorder. It goes beyond merely sDmulaDng resiliency, but instead incorporates a process of transformation)on, achieved through pos,rauma)c growth (PTG). This has been empirically shown to increase personal strength, enhance a greater appreciation for life, improve relationships, identify new possibilities, and foster existential/spiritual development. This form of personal growth is objectively measurable, can be achieved in a variety of work settings, and can be made accessible to all individuals exposed to adverse work or life experiences. This recovery journey culminates in full reintegraon at work, optimized functionality, and the achievement of the highest sustainable level of health and wellness.
Using a case-based discussion in a Public Safety Personnel context, this 2-part workshop maps the critical steps in this recommended peer-driven, workplace-administered, longitudinal approach, augmented by medical support. It further provides practical guidance for reintegrating, monitoring, and maintaining safety-sensitive and decision-critical workers affected by the consequences of trauma and addiction.
The principles and practices outlined in this evidence-informed workplace recovery model can be replicated and incorporated into a variety of diverse occupational settings.”
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the key elements of reintegration and recovery at work;
- Articulate strategies to stimulate and measure posttraumatic growth;
- Integrate knowledge into a framework for promoting recovery and reintegration.
BIO
Cst. Amy MacLeod is a police officer with the Edmonton Police Service, currently assigned to the Reintegration Unit within the Employee & Family Assistance Section. Amy supports members’ well-being and successful reintegration back into the workplace.
Amy has been a police officer for 22 years. Her entire career has been operational, and from 2015 to 2023, she worked in the Training Section and was a Firearms Instructor. It was in this role that Amy joined the greater Reintegration team in 2019 while in the Firearms Training Unit. In 2024, Amy became a full-time member of the Reintegration Unit.
Throughout her career, Amy has maintained a strong passion for member wellness, consistently advocating for and supporting the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of her colleagues. Her full-time role allows her to assist members in returning to work after critical traumatic incidents in both their personal and professional lives.
BIO
Cst. David Klein is a member of the Edmonton City Police and has been in a full time Reintegration Constable position for the last 5 years. In his role, he works with sworn and civilian members after Critical Incidents, Traumatic events as well as assists them in returning to work after psychological and/or physical injury. The majority of this works involves a multidisciplinary approach with consolation and assistance from Psychologist, Social Workers and Occupational Therapists from WCB, STD or LTD providers. The goal of Reintegration is to assist members in remaining at, or returning to, work more confident and comfortable then before they entered the voluntary program.
Since joining the EPS in 2007, Cst. Klein has working in a variety of roles including; Community Patrol, Inner City Police and Crisis, Neighbourhood BEATS and Firearms Training Section. Since April 2025, Cst. KLEIN has also been the Primary Handler of EPS’s Operation Stress Intervention Dog, Blaise.