Captain Marc Pasquarella – Supporting Officer Wellness: A SEPTA Police Perspective

SUMMARY:

In this episode of TLC Connections, Captain Marc Pasquarella of SEPTA Police joins us to discuss an often-overlooked aspect of law enforcement: officer wellness.

With 15 years of experience in policing, Captain Pasquarella shares how SEPTA has embraced mental health support for officers, leading to a stronger, healthier police force. He details the formation of the Crisis Response Team, the department’s efforts to normalize mental health conversations, and the impact of leadership on departmental culture. He also speaks candidly about his own commitment to mental well-being, highlighting why proactive mental health care is essential for those in high-stress professions.

This conversation sheds light on the evolving culture of policing and the importance of supporting those who serve and protect our communities.

GUEST BIO:

Captain Marc Pasquarella has served with SEPTA Police since 2010, rising through the ranks from patrol officer to his current role as captain. A passionate advocate for officer wellness, he played a key role in developing SEPTA’s Crisis Response Team, which provides mental health support for officers in high-stress situations. With experience in patrol, special units, and leadership positions, Captain Pascarella is committed to fostering a culture of resilience and well-being within law enforcement.

HOST BIO:

Julie Knudsen, LCSW, is an experienced clinical and development professional dedicated to enhancing mental health and family well-being. Currently, she serves as the Director of Development at The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth. As a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience in therapeutic services and nonprofit leadership, Julie’s work has consistently focused on empowering individuals and families across a variety of behavioral health settings.

Previously, Julie worked as the Program Director at a prominent family services organization, where she led initiatives aimed at improving community access to mental health care. Continually building on her extensive background in social work and community service, Julie has served as a volunteer and Team Leader with Global Volunteers since 2006

Julie earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and her Master of Social Work (MSW) from Bryn Mawr College.

Connect with Julie on LinkedIn

SPONSORS:

The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise headquartered in the Greater Philadelphia Area and operating in multiple states. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing K-12 education, behavioral health care, outpatient therapy, wellness coaching, professional development, and grant management services.