OUR Why
We have always been empowered and mesmerized by the affect first responders can have on another persons life. But the most motivating factor of our mission in the fire service exists because we know the power other first responders have on one another first hand.
From an early age we struggle with family abuse, addictions of almost anything you can imagine, and the all too common broken families. Being first responders ourselves, we felt we were called through divinity. What we did not expect is how all of our past pain, trial, and tribulations could be exacerbated by what we perceived to be our dream job.
At Ironclad Wellness we have taken on the mission to promote our message of overcoming many traumas, addictions, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with the ability to transition into Post Traumatic Growth (PTG). As they say, “when it rains it pours”, and many times the rain was torrential. For far too long first responders have been slipping through the cracks of an unknown and unaddressed mental wellness pandemic.
Through our trainings, document preparation, presentations and other services, we enjoy using our stories of triumph after many struggles to show relational transparency with our audiences. Notwithstanding, the message does not stop there. We strive to provide real, simple, and tried solutions to these matters. We, as first responders, are beyond the “awareness” phase where this issue is made known. First responders need to be in the action phase, coming to the table with real solutions to our known problems. We would love nothing more than to hear of these warrior mindsets that provide these valuable ideas to their personnel and organizations during our time together.
We are personally dedicated to pursuing a better service for all first responders because we know it is out there. There are times we can recall in our own strife that we questioned, “is it worth climbing out of this?”, to that, we say “absolutely!”. That is why we are here and passionately in the hunt for a better us.
Stay safe and take care of each other,
-The Ironclad Wellness Team
JASON M. CORTHELL
DIRECTOR AND INTERNATIONAL SPEAKER
Jason Corthell is an International Speaker, Director of Ironclad Wellness, and a dedicated member of the fire service since 2004. With over a decade of experience as a Fire Service Officer, Chief Corthell brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience to his work. Beginning in 2017, he courageously began sharing his journey from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) to Post Traumatic Growth (PTG). He is widely accepted and nationally recognized as a prominent voice in the field of first responder mental wellness and building helpful, culturally competent programs for first responder organizations. His insights and projects have been featured in numerous publications and podcasts, making him a sought-after speaker and advocate.
He was awarded the The Star of Texas Award in 2016 by Governor Greg Abbott. This award honors all Texas peace officers, firefighters, emergency medical first responders, and federal law enforcement officers who are seriously injured or killed in the line of duty.
In 2024, Jason gained both the Fire Chief’s Excellence Award and was awarded the Texas Fire Instructor of the Year by the Texas Association of Fire Educators. However, his proudest accomplishments come as a husband and father.
ALEXIS MELTON, LMFT-S /LCDC-I
Licensed Clinician and Assistant Director
Alexis is a highly experienced professional in the field of wellness and development, with a dedicated career of over five years. She has been actively involved in various organizations during her time as a counselor: Shield Bearer Counseling Centers, PTSD Foundation of America, Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Cypress Creek Fire Department Clinician, and Cy-Fair Fire Department as an Emergency Medical Technician -Advanced, while also serving on the Peer Clinical Review Board.
Alexis holds several certifications and licenses to support her work within the industry. She obtained her Associates Degree in Mortuary Science from Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Services, a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University, and a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Our Lady of the Lake University. Additionally, Alexis is a Crisis K9 handler for Molly, certified by International Association of Fire Fighters Peer Support, and vetted as a mental health clinician by the International Association of Fire Fighters.
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR AND OUTREACH COORDINATOR
JADA WILLIAMS
Jada Williams is a highly accomplished and dedicated professional in the field of firefighting, with a wealth of experience and expertise. Over the course of her six-year career, Jada has honed her skills and demonstrated her commitment to the safety and well-being of her community.
In her current role in the fire service, Jada has proven herself as a valuable asset by consistently going above and beyond the call of duty. Last year, she took on the important role of peer support member, providing crucial assistance and guidance to her fellow firefighters during times of need. Additionally, her volunteer work with Guardian Grounds Ranch showcases her passion for mental health and wellness, as she actively promotes these important issues within the fire service.
Jada's advocacy for mental health is rooted in her belief that community engagement is essential for building strong support systems and promoting overall well-being. Her personal background, growing up in diverse communities and shouldering significant responsibilities as the oldest of five children and first-generation firefighter, has instilled in her the importance of prioritizing health and wellness in all aspects of life.
With her unique blend of experience, passion, and dedication to mental health advocacy, Jada Williams is poised to make a lasting impact within any community-focused on promoting mental wellness. Her impressive track record and unwavering commitment to the well-being of others make her a standout professional in the first responder mental wellness field.
MOLLY
ALLIANCE OF THERAPY DOGS AND CREDENTIALED CRISIS RESPONSE K9
Crisis Response K9 Molly is a highly trained and dedicated therapy dog who plays a role in providing emotional support and comfort to individuals facing traumatic events. In 2023, she was credentialed as a Crisis Response K9 through Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Her training was specifically targeted to work in highly emotional situations, offering a calming presence for those coping with distress.
One of Molly's most impactful roles is working with first responders and Veterans, who often face intense and traumatic situations. Her presence in these environments offers both a break from the stress of their work and an opportunity to process emotions in a comforting setting. One of her skills is to alert people to stress in a person before they are even aware it is happening. When she is alerted Molly jumps into action by distraction and providing affection.
While Molly's specific story is unique, her service exemplifies the growing recognition of therapy animals' importance in crisis response. Therapy dogs like her play an essential role in fostering resilience, promoting emotional recovery, and helping communities heal.