Nov 3, 2017
👉 When duty ends, trauma doesn’t. How the Code 9 Project is saving police marriages and bringing PTSD in policing into the light.
This episode sheds light on the hidden crisis of PTSD among law enforcement officers and their families. Debbie Ortiz shares her personal journey as a police spouse navigating her husband’s post-service trauma, the lack of resources they faced, and how that inspired her to create the Code 9 Project. Together, Cyndi and Debbie explore the effects of chronic trauma, why family education is essential, and how departments can better support officer mental health. The conversation offers hope, practical strategies, and a powerful reminder that healing begins with awareness and action.
Hosted by Cyndi Doyle, licensed professional counselor, author of Hold the Line, and founder of Code4Couples®, this channel empowers first responder couples to build stronger relationships, manage stress, and stay connected through the challenges of the job.
Free Resource / Opt-In
📖 Learn more from Cyndi’s book Hold the Line: The Essential
Guide to Protecting Your Law Enforcement Relationship →
👉
https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Line-Protecting-Enforcement-Relationship-ebook/dp/B08TPRTY9G#customerReviews
Speaking / Training
Book Cyndi for department training or a first responder event
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🎯 https://code4couples.com/training/
00:00 Intro: Cyndi welcomes Debbie Ortiz
01:30 The origin of the Code 9 Project
05:00 Recognizing the signs of PTSD in policing
09:15 How families can support first responders
14:00 The role of education in preventing trauma
20:00 Inside the Code 9 film and movement
26:00 Advice for spouses and families of officers
28:00 Final thoughts and hope for healing