Get to Know Our Dedicated Team

With firsthand experience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by our community, we stand ready to serve as trusted allies on your wellness journey.

Jane McKeon, LICSW

Jane McKeon is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 25 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse fields. She earned her Master’s degree from Boston College School of Social Work and began her career working with children and families, focusing on counseling and adoption placement. This foundational experience led her to specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms in adults, particularly those linked to substance abuse and PTSD.

For the past 15 years, Jane has committed herself to supporting First Responders, providing essential mental health services to police, fire, and correctional officers across various departments. She currently provides clinical services at Onsite Academy, a non-profit residential treatment and training center for critical incident stress management. Jane’s dedication lies in ensuring the health and wellness of these individuals, whose roles are crucial in serving and protecting our communities. Her deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by first responders has allowed her to develop a compassionate and effective therapeutic approach, earning her the trust and respect of those she serves.

She is certified in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) under the Mitchell Model through the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She utilizes these skills to respond to critical incidents and actively supports the Massachusetts Peer Support Team Network.

Jane prioritizes mental wellness beyond crisis intervention. Her commitment to empowering first responders and fostering resilience within the community aligns with her values. Jane’s dedication to providing culturally competent care has positively impacted the lives of countless first responders, reflecting her commitment to their well-being. Together, they continue to advance the shared mission of building a healthier and more resilient first responder community. 

Meet Joe Rizzuti

Founder, Law Enforcement (Retired)

Joe Rizzuti is a founding member of First Responder Wellness of Merrimack Valley, an organization providing mental health and wellness services and training to first responders in the region. With over 27 years of experience as a retired police officer, Joe has dedicated himself to supporting his brothers and sisters in the first responder community. His deep connection to public service is rooted in a firefighting family and further enriched by his time as a veteran who served on both active duty and with the Massachusetts Army National Guard as a Military Police officer.

Joe’s dedication to service is marked by his achievements as the youngest NCO to attend the advanced military police NCO course at 25 and his distinction as the youngest Army National Guard soldier to become a recruiter at the age of 20 with the rank of corporal. His passion extends to the mental health of first responders, advocating for accessible, quality, and confidential mental health services.

In addition to his remarkable career, Joe is a survivor of a harrowing motorcycle accident and has faced personal traumas including the loss of a good friend to police suicide and a line-of-duty death within his agency. He holds certifications as a peer support specialist, a Substance Abuse Counselor specializing in First Responders and their families, and a Certified Recovery Coach. Joe earned a Bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement Management and is trained in suicide prevention and intervention as a member of the local critical incident team.

A nationally published author, Joe shares his personal journey in his book, "A Cop's Story," highlighting his experiences of growing up with a learning disability and overcoming challenges to become a police officer in a bustling urban environment. "A Cop's Story" is available on Amazon in paperback and ebook format. 100% of all proceeds go directly to support Onsite Academy.

Beyond his professional roles, Joe is a strong advocate for mental health awareness, working tirelessly to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness. His dedication and compassion make him a valuable asset to the team, significantly impacting the lives of first responders in the Merrimack Valley.

Meet Amy Doolin, MSW LICSW 

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker

Amy earned her Master’s Degree from Boston University School of Social Work. She has over 25 years of experience practicing therapy for adults, adolescents, children, and families. Her professional journey has led her through various settings, including residential programs, school systems, health care clinics, and home-based treatment. She has had the honor and privilege of serving a diverse range of populations in terms of age, culture, and socioeconomic status.

Amy has valuable expertise in treating a host of diagnostically significant symptoms. Her primary focus has been treating those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Acute Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use, and Life Adjustment Issues. Her experience in treating those who have experienced trauma as well as her skills with crisis intervention, has made her a valuable resource to First Responders including Firefighters, Police Officers, and Correctional Officers.

Amy has also personally experienced significant loss. Married to a Police Officer for over 10 years and losing him to cancer has given her an intimate experience with grief and trauma. It demanded that she learn the skills to cope as well as navigating the process and stages of grief. It has also given her the motivation and passion to work with other officers as well as their partners and families.

Amy uses a host of different treatment modalities depending on the needs of the individual. She allows the client to guide the session. Additionally, she is well versed in helping others develop coping strategies, stress management techniques, and embracing a more positive outlook. Amy is a well trusted clinician and her approach is empathic and engaging. She is deeply committed to helping individuals realize their strengths and resiliency. She holds a steadfast belief that every person has the potential to improve their capacity for growth towards leading healthy lives.

"Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, being a first responder means being the calm in the storm, dedicated to making a difference when it matters most."

- Anonymous First Responder

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"The mission of First Responder Wellness of Merrimack Valley promotes the health and wellness of our first responders and their families." 

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"First Responder Wellness has been a lifeline for me and my family; their compassionate team genuinely comprehends the challenges we encounter, offering unwavering support and guidance." 

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