About DEREK SIENKO
Biography
Derek Sienko
Derek Sienko, is one of the country’s leading experts in mental health for first responders, veterans, and their families, and a Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) survivor whose lived experience fuels his mission to transform care and support for those who serve. With over 25 years of experience across the public and private sectors, Derek has built a distinguished career advancing best practices in Mental Health, Disability Management, and Return-to-Work Services, while inspiring organizations and communities to embrace evidence-based, compassionate care.
He holds a Master’s degree in Military Psychology and a Bachelor of Social Work and is a Chaplain, a Certified Canadian Vocational Rehabilitation Professional, and a Return-to-Work and Disability Management specialist. These credentials, combined with his personal journey with PTSD, uniquely position him to understand the profound challenges faced by first responders and veterans, and to guide them and their families toward recovery and resilience.
As CEO and Chief Mental Health Officer of Diversified Rehabilitation Group, Derek leads a multidisciplinary team dedicated to creating innovative, client-centered programs. He is the author of The Client-Focused Return-to-Work Model: Integrated Approach to Disability Management and is widely recognized as a champion for educating the public and professional communities on best practices in trauma-informed care.
Motivated by his own experience with PTSD, Derek developed the Traumatic Stress Recovery Program for First Responders and Veterans, a program designed to provide practical, evidence-based support to those affected by occupational and moral injuries. A sought-after speaker, he delivers compelling presentations that blend expert knowledge with genuine empathy, empowering leaders, practitioners, and communities to better understand, prevent, and treat trauma. His work continues to set the standard for excellence in mental health support for the men and women who dedicate their lives to serving others.