Empowering People and Organizations in Times of Crisis
Immediate crisis support when and where you need it
Our Mission
We are dedicated to supporting people and organizations during times of crisis by fostering their ability to recover, and achieve sustainable well-being in the midst of adversity.
At the heart of our work is a deep commitment to guiding people through crises with clarity, compassion, and proven expertise. Trusted by organizations across business, industry, government, and Employee Assistance Programs, our work has earned recognition both nationally and internationally.
Services Overview
Tailored solutions to navigate critical incidents, trauma, and recovery.
24/7 Crisis Response Support
From on-site response to virtual assistance, we deliver rapid, coordinated support for organizations of any size. Our team is available day and night to ensure immediate, effective solutions when disruptive events occur.
Training & Program Development
Our customized training programs offer practical tools to enhance mental and emotional wellness, handle challenging situations, and adapt to organizational changes with confidence.
Populations Served
With understanding and sensitivity, we respond to the unique cultural and operational needs of a wide range of communities, including:
- Media & Journalism
- Community & Social Services
- Military & Veterans
- Healthcare
- Emergency Management
- Fire, EMS & Communications
- Law Enforcement & Corrections
- Financial Institutions
- Government Agencies
- Legal & Justice Services
- Education
- Special Interest & Advocacy Groups
- Retail & Service Industries
- Labor & Transportation
- Environmental & Animal Welfare
Responsive Support for Complex Challenges
From national disaster recovery to global conflict zones, our services have been field-tested and recognized for their impact.
International Support
WTC has extensive experience in delivering global crisis support and specialized training in collaboration with international organizations and government agencies. Our work spans across diverse regions including Ireland, Fiji, Haiti, Iraq, Jordan, Malaysia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, The Maldives, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
Tailored Support for Intensive and High-Pressure Work Environments
Working with journalists and media professionals around the world, WTC offers group and individual debriefings to help navigate stress and trauma in high-pressure environments. WTC also offers training to news organizations on best practices to support their staff.
Collaborating with Critical Partners to Bring Hope and Healing
Collaborating with leadership of a major metropolitan Department of Corrections, WTC implemented a Critical Incident Stress Management Program and established a Peer Support Team to provide structured support for staff during traumatic events.
Assistance in the Wake of Natural Disasters
Following two devastating Category 5 hurricanes, the WTC partnered with the U.S. Virgin Islands territorial government to deliver training programs designed to strengthen resilience, manage stress, and build coping skills.
Responding to Tragedy and Terrorism with Hope
In the wake of September 11, 2001, WTC provided immediate crisis support and mental health services at both The World Trade Center and the Pentagon, as well as over seventy companies directly impacted by the attacks.
Healthcare and Crisis Response
The CDC recognized WTC’s innovative work in developing and implementing The Maryland COVID-19 Crisis Support Program as a “Best Practice”. This comprehensive mental health program supported the employees of Maryland long-term care facilities during the height of the COVID 19 pandemic.
First Responder Support
Helping first responders and communities recover from the trauma and devastation of environmental disasters such as the California wildfires, flash flooding, and oil tanker explosions.
Accessible Crisis Response Training Programs
Dr. Rick Ottenstein, CEO of WTC, authored and presented "Corporate Crisis Response: CISM in the Workplace", a globally recognized course sponsored by The International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF).
Supporting Organizations of All Types
WTC has supported animal welfare organizations, sanctuaries, and zoological parks through a variety of challenges, from critical incidents to staff wellness needs.
Leadership Team
Richard J. Ottenstein, Ph.D., CEAP, CTS
Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Rick Ottenstein a pioneer in critical incident training and response who has developed global training programs, led disaster mental health initiatives, and continues to guide organizations worldwide in building resilient, crisis-ready teams.
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Sue Pahl, MSW, M.Ed., LCSW-C
President
Sue Pahl combines decades of experience with mindfulness-based approaches to support trauma recovery, build resilience, and promote psychological well-being worldwide.
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Dawn Hammerbacher, B.A.
Director of Operations
Dawn Hammerbacher combines expertise with compassion in leading global and nationwide crisis response efforts, specializing in complex logistics and the coordination of comprehensive critical incident support programs.
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Join Our Team of Experts
Are you passionate about supporting people and organizations in times of crisis? Do you enjoy teaching and helping others develop skills to maintain their mental wellness? The Workplace Trauma Center is actively looking to expand our team of Critical Incident Responders and Presenters.
Critical Incident Responder & Presenter
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide critical incident and trauma support to organizations and individuals in crisis
- Conduct debriefings and support sessions for groups and individuals following a traumatic event
- Collaborate with teams to develop customized trauma response programs
- Deliver presentations covering diverse topics, including mental wellness, resilience, workplace trauma, and crisis preparedness.
Qualifications:
- Professional licensure in mental health, social work, or related field
- Experience in group and individual critical incident response and crisis intervention
- Ability to remain calm and effective in high-stress situations
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Flexibility to travel and respond on short notice (Crisis Responders only)
- Experience delivering seminars virtually and in person
- Strong public speaking and presentation skills
- Ability to work independently
Contact Us
Have questions or need support? We're ready to help.
For immediate critical incident support or information, please call:
USA: +1 410-363-4432
International: 001-410-363-4432
For less urgent requests or for additional information please call or contact us using the form below.