Who We Are

3. Peer Support Structure: The peer support program is structured to provide a safe and confidential space for first responders to share their experiences, discuss their challenges, and seek support from their peers. Our handlers help assist sessions with the department support team, offering guidance and encouragement as needed.

4. Animal-Assisted Interventions: During peer support sessions, support animals are integrated into various interventions designed to promote relaxation, emotional regulation, and stress reduction. This may include activities such as petting, grooming, or simply being in the presence of the animal.

5. Trauma-Informed Approach: Our handlers are trained to recognize the signs of trauma and provide trauma-informed care to first responders in crisis. They utilize their own experiences and understanding of the unique challenges faced by first responders to offer empathy, validation, and practical coping strategies.

6. Follow-Up Support: In addition to peer support sessions, our handlers offer follow-up support to first responders as needed. This may involve one-on-one support, additional animal-assisted support sessions, or referrals to other mental health resources.

7. Collaboration and Partnerships: We collaborate with other organizations and agencies within the first responder community to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to supporting the mental health and well-being of those in need. This includes working closely with peer support networks, mental health professionals, and emergency services agencies.

Overall, our CISM peer support with animal assistance program offers a holistic and compassionate approach to addressing the mental health needs of first responders, leveraging the therapeutic benefits of animal-assisted interventions and the expertise of former responder handlers to promote resilience, recovery, and overall well-being.

Bishop’s Mission:

Crisis Intervention Stress Management (CISM) peer support with animal assistance for first responders, facilitated by former responder handlers, provides a specialized and empathetic approach to addressing the unique stressors and trauma experienced by those in high-risk professions. Here's how we offer this service:

1. Specialized Training: Former responder handlers undergo comprehensive training in both CISM principles and animal-assisted therapy techniques. This ensures they have the knowledge and skills necessary to support first responders in crisis situations effectively.

2. Support Animal Selection: Support animals are carefully selected based on their temperament, training, and suitability for working in high-stress environments. Dogs, in particular, are commonly chosen for their ability to provide comfort, companionship, and emotional support. All dogs are certified Therapy Dogs.

Meet the Team

If you have emergency or military background and would like to join our team of handlers, contact Kate at Kate@bishopsmission.org


  • Founder

    Kate Klasen is a distinguished veteran of law enforcement, having served in various capacities within the Chicagoland area.

    Kate's dedication to serving her community shines through her founding of H.E.L.P. (Human & Animal Emergency Lifeline Preparedness). Drawing from her extensive background as a first responder, Kate imparts crucial emergency preparedness skills for both people and pets. Her offerings include Animal CPR/First Aid courses, aligning with her mission to ensure the safety and welfare of all beings.

    During her tenure with the Police Department, Kate's versatility was evident as she held roles ranging from certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) to 9-1-1 dispatcher and police officer. She served as a field training officer for dispatchers and contributed her expertise to the Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA), where she instructed first responders in CPR/First Aid and defensive tactics.

    A certified instructor through esteemed organizations such as the Health Safety Institute, AVERT, and Pet Tech, Kate continuously hones her expertise through training with entities like K9 Medic, Red Cross, RECOVER, Veterinary Tactical Group, USCCA Practical Tactical Medicine Courses, and Stop the Bleed.

    Since transitioning from law enforcement, Kate remains steadfast in her commitment to education and service.

    Kate Klasen is a seasoned advocate for resilience within the first responder community, equipped with a diverse array of certifications and training in trauma peer support counseling and crisis intervention. With a rich background in law enforcement and emergency response, Kate's journey is defined by a steadfast commitment to supporting and uplifting her fellow first responders in times of need.

    Certified with First Responder Trauma Peer Support Counselors, Kate possesses specialized expertise in providing compassionate and empathetic assistance to individuals navigating the aftermath of traumatic incidents. Her training encompasses a comprehensive understanding of the unique challenges and stressors faced by first responders in the line of duty.

    Drawing on her extensive knowledge and experience, Kate holds certifications in FEMA IS-100, NCTSN Psychological First Aid, and ICISF Assisting Individuals in Crisis & Group Crisis Intervention. These certifications reflect her dedication to honing her skills in crisis response and psychological support, ensuring that she remains well-equipped to offer effective assistance in a variety of emergency situations.

    Kate's unwavering dedication to the well-being of first responders and her tireless efforts to provide compassionate support in times of crisis embody the true spirit of peer support and solidarity. Through her ongoing commitment to professional development and advocacy, she continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves.


  • K9 Bishop enjoys station visits and works with First Responders as part of their peer support team. Bishop is certified with First Responder Therapy Dogs and is service trained to recognize PTSD. When Bishop isn’t making visits, he helps his handler teach classes to help demonstrate Animal CPR/First Aid to H.E.L.P. grow the animal emergency support network. In his down time, he’s just a happy boy who loves to play, do tricks and tasks.