Steve Horner
The first critical incident Steve experienced as a police officer happened during recruit training in 1990 — the day a close friend and colleague took his own life. “I didn’t understand at the time how long those suppressed feelings would sit with me. I didn’t even know I had them.”
That experience became the foundation for everything that followed. When the York Region CISM Team was formed in 1996, Steve got involved immediately — first as an Association executive helping fund the new peer support team, then as a member, then as its trainer, and eventually as Team Lead. He brings that history into every course he teaches.
“He possesses a quiet and engaging manner that speaks of confidence and experience. His instruction didn’t just come from text-box knowledge — he experienced much of what he was teaching. I found he was a passionate instructor, passionate in his work and what he taught.”
— Course participant, GCI online (Zoom)“Steve was a spectacular instructor. His energy was high and he got the class to participate in many of the lessons. I thought virtual learning wasn’t going to be fun and possibly be dry. I was wrong.”
“Dynamic, engaging speaker. Spoke with authenticity and the ‘no BS’ approach was refreshing and allowed me to build trust.”
“Excellent adult education techniques and ability to engage a group of varying careers and experiences.”
“You! You were a really engaging facilitator — online training is already difficult, and I have ADHD; you made it enjoyable and I absorbed so much more than I expected.”
“How safe you made the environment — I think by opening up about your experiences it really helped!”
“I actually feel like I could facilitate a defuse or debrief right now if called upon to do so.”
“Your manner is easy and approachable. You don’t discount anyone’s ideas or thoughts and encourage dialogue — the conversations helped to solidify the material.”
“Great class! I had the communication skills prior, but now feel more confident using them in crisis situations. I would 100% recommend this course to my co-workers.”
“The training methods Steve utilized made for an interesting and informative two days — formatted specific for our organization and drawing on examples from his own vast experience. Steve’s style and sense of humour was enjoyable.”
“Not only did my Justice students come away with information for their future careers — they also came away with valuable life messages about self-care and asking for help. Your time and expertise is much appreciated.”
Over more than a decade of teaching, participants have come from across the professional spectrum — including:
Ready to bring this training to your team?
Every course is customized to your organization’s context and the real situations your people face. Let’s talk about what that looks like for you.
Get in touch — [email protected]