At Best of Best Review, we are delighted to recognize the exceptional contributions of Melissa Osen, a leading mental health professional in the field of trauma-informed care. Melissa's dedication to the well-being of first responders in the Magic Valley has earned her our prestigious award for being the Best Trauma-Informed Mindset Coach of 2024.

A Champion for First Responders

Melissa Osen, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, CFTP, has over 19 years of experience in the mental health field. Her career began in child protection services, where she developed a passion for helping vulnerable populations. This dedication led her to work in a hospital setting, providing compassionate care to individuals facing significant health challenges.

For the past seven years, Melissa has operated her own private practice, specializing in trauma-informed care. Her practice is renowned for its comprehensive approach to treating trauma, utilizing evidence-based therapies such as Mindfulness, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). Melissa holds advanced and enhanced certifications in ART, showcasing her commitment to providing cutting-edge, effective treatments for trauma.

Specialized Training and Recognized Expertise

Melissa's extensive training and certifications, including her CISM certification from UMBC Emergency Health Services, enable her to provide an integrated multi-component continuum of psychological interventions in the context of acute adversity, trauma, and disaster. Her deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by first responders has made her a trusted figure in the mental health community.

Josh Hayes, President of the FOP Lodge 22, shares his experience working with Melissa:

_"Officers have the option to contact EAP and attend several therapy sessions to help with the trauma they see and deal with on a daily shift. However, the current timeline to utilize EAP is not conducive to quick treatment, where it takes weeks, even months, to reach your first appointment. Some have even had the experience of never hearing back from the EAP provider. This is a significant concern for the FOP as the Officers are waiting to work through their trauma; they must continue to respond to similar incidents for weeks, reopening the trauma even more.

Several FOP members have had the opportunity to work with E-Well Lifeline for the last several months. The experience that is being shared among the members is very positive. Officers can work with E-Well Lifeline and have a scheduled ART session with Melissa Osen within a week. Melissa Osen and other partners have been instrumental in bringing ART to our area and making it available for all first responders quickly so they can move past the trauma. Melissa Osen has dedicated time to our first responders to ensure their mental health and emotional wellness is cared for."_

Awards and Recognition

Melissa's commitment to her clients and her community has been recognized through numerous awards, including the Twin Falls County Sheriff's Office Distinguished Service Award, the Extra Mile Award from Mayor Ruth Pierce and the Twin Falls City Chamber of Commerce, the Presidents Award from St. Luke's Health System, and the Regional Scott Johnson Award for her development of ELEV8, an independent living skills program for youth aging out of foster care.

Going Above and Beyond

Melissa's dedication to her clients extends beyond traditional therapy sessions. Regardless of a client's ability to pay or the immediacy of their need, Melissa goes the extra mile to provide immediate care, especially for first responders in crisis. Her unwavering commitment to the mental health and resilience of our community's heroes is truly inspiring.

Pros of Choosing Melissa Osen for Trauma-Informed Care:

• Extensive experience and specialized training in trauma-informed therapies.

• Advanced and Enhanced certifications in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).

• Proven track record of supporting first responders and other high-stress professions.

• Comprehensive approach utilizing evidence-based therapies like EMDR and Mindfulness.

• Immediate and compassionate care for clients in crisis, regardless of financial constraints.

• Numerous awards and recognitions highlighting her dedication and expertise.

To learn more about Melissa Osen and her transformative work, visit her Facebook posts here 

At Best of Best Review, we are proud to honor Melissa Osen for her exceptional contributions to the mental health and well-being of first responders and her unwavering commitment to trauma-informed care. Congratulations, Melissa!