Bryan McCauley is a Marine Corps veteran, former firefighter, police officer, and detective with a powerful story. As the director of the Heroes program at PA Recovery Center, he is deeply passionate about helping fellow veterans and first responders navigate their path to recovery.
He joins us today to share his story and speak from personal experience, having confronted his own demons and emerged stronger on the other side. Throughout the episode, Bryan reminds us that reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step toward reclaiming one’s life. Listen in as he shares his insights on seeking help, breaking the silence surrounding suicide, and finding hope in darkness.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
0:00 - Intro
1:35 – Bryan’s time in service + as a first responder
2:44 – Battling addiction and anxiety + Bryan’s catalyst to seek help
6:03 – The need for proactive support + open conversations about suicide
9:38 – How the PA Recovery Center has grown + how you can get in touch
12:21 – Taking the courageous step to get help
Bryan McCauley
Bryan’s journey has been shaped by his service in the United States Marine Corps, followed by roles as a firefighter and police officer/detective. In 2019, he transitioned to become the director of an addiction treatment program for veterans and first responders, a position deeply resonant with his own recovery journey that began in September 2010.
Benefiting from treatment himself, Bryan's passion for aiding others facing similar struggles ignited. Understanding the unique challenges veterans and first responders encounter, especially regarding trauma's cumulative effects, he has dedicated his career to providing support and guidance.
Graduating from Alvernia University with a degree in Addictions and Mental Health, Bryan earned recognition with the George Vogel Award for academic excellence. He completed an associate counselor's program, refining his ability to blend passion with competence and cultural competency in client work. Currently pursuing a master's degree at Gwynedd Mercy University, Bryan serves as President of the Counselors for Social Justice Chapter and is a member of various professional associations.
Today, Bryan serves on the St. Joseph’s University Phoenix Training Team and directs the Heroes Program at Pennsylvania Recovery Center. There, he fosters an environment prioritizing healing and growth, driven by empathy and a deep understanding of the recovery journey.
EPISODE LINKS
PA Recovery Center
https://pennsylvaniarecoverycenter.org/
Bryan’s cell phone
267-228-4466
Bryan’s email
BryanM@PARecoveryCenter.com
RESOURCES
Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg
Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy
CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU
Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)
To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS
View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q
Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans’ Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
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