First Responders Therapists in Camp Pendleton, CA

Coy Reyes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Coy is a licensed psychotherapist with a decade history of working with survivors of combat trauma & sexual trauma, couples, grieving families, military, law-enforcement/ first responders, and coaches & athletes.
Coy has been been trained with the following modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, Prolonged Exposure, Attachment-Focused EMDR, Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM) Level 1, Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 2, Clinical Hypnosis, Motivational Interviewing, and Problem Solving.
Coy is a licensed psychotherapist with a decade history of working with survivors of combat trauma & sexual trauma, couples, grieving families, military, law-enforcement/ first responders, and coaches & athletes.
Coy has been been trained with the following modalities: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, Prolonged Exposure, Attachment-Focused EMDR, Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM) Level 1, Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 2, Clinical Hypnosis, Motivational Interviewing, and Problem Solving.
(747) 252-5828 View (747) 252-5828
Virginia Wilcsek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with Military, First Responders, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, BPD, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery & Treating Adult Children of Emotional Immature Parents.
My practice focuses on diversity, compassion, & self-discovery. I’ve dedicated my sessions to creating a space of safety. I focus on Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Survivors, somatic reprocessing, ACEIPS, & Trauma informed care, I cater EMDR, DBT, CBT, IFS, and somatic work to create a holistic approach. There is no right or wrong, good or bad, in healing.
I work with Military, First Responders, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, BPD, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery & Treating Adult Children of Emotional Immature Parents.
My practice focuses on diversity, compassion, & self-discovery. I’ve dedicated my sessions to creating a space of safety. I focus on Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Survivors, somatic reprocessing, ACEIPS, & Trauma informed care, I cater EMDR, DBT, CBT, IFS, and somatic work to create a holistic approach. There is no right or wrong, good or bad, in healing.
(858) 289-0339 View (858) 289-0339
Shauntis L. Bussey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
So you’ve known for a while that you needed to talk to a therapist, but you’re not sure who will actually get you. Glad you found me. Maybe you’ve held it together so well that even you started believing your struggles weren’t “that bad.” You’ve learned to go it alone, carry all the responsibility, and push through. For a while, it worked: you checked the boxes, hit the milestones, got the bag. But now you’re exhausted, overthinking, and wondering why a life that looks fine on paper still feels so hard and empty.
So you’ve known for a while that you needed to talk to a therapist, but you’re not sure who will actually get you. Glad you found me. Maybe you’ve held it together so well that even you started believing your struggles weren’t “that bad.” You’ve learned to go it alone, carry all the responsibility, and push through. For a while, it worked: you checked the boxes, hit the milestones, got the bag. But now you’re exhausted, overthinking, and wondering why a life that looks fine on paper still feels so hard and empty.
(951) 262-7841 View (951) 262-7841
Dr. Sara Giglio Patterson
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
Dr. Sara Patterson is a licensed clinical psychologist, PSY26584, specializing in the therapeutic care and psychological treatment of adults, college students, and adolescents navigating Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as grief and loss, relationship challenges, and life transitions using a solution focused application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Her primary treatment approach focuses on tailoring empirically supported treatments to individuals' needs and using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to increase effective coping strategies.
Dr. Sara Patterson is a licensed clinical psychologist, PSY26584, specializing in the therapeutic care and psychological treatment of adults, college students, and adolescents navigating Mood and Anxiety Disorders as well as grief and loss, relationship challenges, and life transitions using a solution focused application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Her primary treatment approach focuses on tailoring empirically supported treatments to individuals' needs and using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to increase effective coping strategies.
(858) 943-2871 View (858) 943-2871
Joseph M Latham
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Many of the people I support face cultural or military-related concerns, severe mental health conditions, or difficulties with social skills.
I specialize in evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and CPT for trauma. I offer tailored support for anxiety, depression, addiction, and cultural or military-related issues. My goal is to help you manage symptoms, improve emotional regulation and interpersonal skills, and achieve overall well-being in a supportive, understanding environment.
Many of the people I support face cultural or military-related concerns, severe mental health conditions, or difficulties with social skills.
I specialize in evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and CPT for trauma. I offer tailored support for anxiety, depression, addiction, and cultural or military-related issues. My goal is to help you manage symptoms, improve emotional regulation and interpersonal skills, and achieve overall well-being in a supportive, understanding environment.
(657) 295-0196 View (657) 295-0196

More Therapists Nearby

Erica Tompkins
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with active duty service members, veterans, and individuals navigating major life transitions. I approach therapy with the belief that each person is unique and already has resilience within them. My work is collaborative and strengths-based—I focus on helping clients build on what they already have while developing new tools for healing and growth. I tailor treatment to fit each person’s individual needs and goals.
I specialize in working with active duty service members, veterans, and individuals navigating major life transitions. I approach therapy with the belief that each person is unique and already has resilience within them. My work is collaborative and strengths-based—I focus on helping clients build on what they already have while developing new tools for healing and growth. I tailor treatment to fit each person’s individual needs and goals.
(760) 516-8317 View (760) 516-8317
Dr. Evelyn Vasquez
Psychologist, Psy.D.
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, CA 92078
My clients are first responders, veterans, medical providers, elite/professional athletes, and high-stress professionals.
Trained in PE, CPT, and EMDR, I help clients resolve PTSD and trauma while building resilience, mental toughness, and sustainable performance. I also provide couples therapy to strengthen communication and relationships under pressure. My approach is practical, confidential, and results-oriented to help you heal, grow stronger, and function at your best.
My clients are first responders, veterans, medical providers, elite/professional athletes, and high-stress professionals.
Trained in PE, CPT, and EMDR, I help clients resolve PTSD and trauma while building resilience, mental toughness, and sustainable performance. I also provide couples therapy to strengthen communication and relationships under pressure. My approach is practical, confidential, and results-oriented to help you heal, grow stronger, and function at your best.
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Alexa Grossman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC, ERPSCC
7 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
As a trauma-informed therapist and military veteran, I help veterans, first responders, healthcare workers and other high-responsibility professionals overcome anxiety, perfectionism, and trauma.
You look like you have it all together, but inside you’re battling anxiety, self-criticism, and the fear of not being enough. The pressure to perform perfectly in your work, relationships, and life is exhausting. You lie awake replaying conversations, second-guessing decisions, and wondering why you can’t just “get over it.” Even when things seem fine from the outside, there’s a constant hum of worry, self-doubt, or the weight of past trauma that keeps you feeling stuck, disconnected, and running on empty. I offer in-person therapy in San Diego, CA, and online therapy across California, Indiana, and Ohio.
As a trauma-informed therapist and military veteran, I help veterans, first responders, healthcare workers and other high-responsibility professionals overcome anxiety, perfectionism, and trauma.
You look like you have it all together, but inside you’re battling anxiety, self-criticism, and the fear of not being enough. The pressure to perform perfectly in your work, relationships, and life is exhausting. You lie awake replaying conversations, second-guessing decisions, and wondering why you can’t just “get over it.” Even when things seem fine from the outside, there’s a constant hum of worry, self-doubt, or the weight of past trauma that keeps you feeling stuck, disconnected, and running on empty. I offer in-person therapy in San Diego, CA, and online therapy across California, Indiana, and Ohio.
(619) 413-0446 View (619) 413-0446
Vera Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
I specialize in supporting first responders and their families, offering trauma-informed care that addresses chronic stress, compassion fatigue, and the impact of critical incidents.
I help individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, anxiety, burnout, addiction, and relationship challenges. I strive to help those looking to reconnect with themselves and the people they care about, regain balance, and move through life’s challenges with more clarity and ease. My therapy style is warm, straightforward, and conversational. If you’re used to holding everything together, this is your chance to set it down for an hour.
I specialize in supporting first responders and their families, offering trauma-informed care that addresses chronic stress, compassion fatigue, and the impact of critical incidents.
I help individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, anxiety, burnout, addiction, and relationship challenges. I strive to help those looking to reconnect with themselves and the people they care about, regain balance, and move through life’s challenges with more clarity and ease. My therapy style is warm, straightforward, and conversational. If you’re used to holding everything together, this is your chance to set it down for an hour.
(949) 796-7934 View (949) 796-7934
Melissa Houlston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
6 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
The thought of going to therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but it doesn't have to be. As your therapist, I will hold a safe space for you, free from judgement and provide plenty of support. This will be a place where you can heal from past traumas and/or present issues that are making you feel stuck. I will meet you where you are and only take you where you want to go. I have over eight years of experience in both mental health and hospital settings. I started my career as an ER Social Worker at CHOC and most recently was with the County of Orange providing psychological evaluations for suicidal and homicidal minors.
The thought of going to therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but it doesn't have to be. As your therapist, I will hold a safe space for you, free from judgement and provide plenty of support. This will be a place where you can heal from past traumas and/or present issues that are making you feel stuck. I will meet you where you are and only take you where you want to go. I have over eight years of experience in both mental health and hospital settings. I started my career as an ER Social Worker at CHOC and most recently was with the County of Orange providing psychological evaluations for suicidal and homicidal minors.
(909) 316-3351 View (909) 316-3351
Dr. Vanessa Nash
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92591
I specialize in working with first responders, including law enforcement, fire personnel, EMS, as well as veterans and current military personnel.
I utilize a variety of interventions, such as reframing, visualizations/mindfulness, self-care, among others to address any issues. I find that being direct, and having a sense of humor can really help the process as well!
I specialize in working with first responders, including law enforcement, fire personnel, EMS, as well as veterans and current military personnel.
I utilize a variety of interventions, such as reframing, visualizations/mindfulness, self-care, among others to address any issues. I find that being direct, and having a sense of humor can really help the process as well!
(559) 380-2522 View (559) 380-2522
Alexis Roncevich
Psychologist, PsyD
Vista, CA 92081
I primarily work with first responders, active-duty military personnel, and individuals with prior military service.
My clinical experience includes providing trauma-focused treatment for first responders in intensive outpatient settings and working with veterans within the VHA. This work has given me insight into the demands of careers that require performing under pressure, responding to critical incidents, and regularly placing the needs of others before their own.
I primarily work with first responders, active-duty military personnel, and individuals with prior military service.
My clinical experience includes providing trauma-focused treatment for first responders in intensive outpatient settings and working with veterans within the VHA. This work has given me insight into the demands of careers that require performing under pressure, responding to critical incidents, and regularly placing the needs of others before their own.
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Sara Chamberlin
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
I work with first responders, military, law enforcement, corrections, and healthcare professionals carrying PTSD, complex trauma, nightmares, OCD, anxiety, and the weight of high-risk work.
I use the gold-standard treatments for trauma and anxiety: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Imagery Rehearsal Therapy for nightmares, and ERP for OCD. Sessions are structured, collaborative, and outcome-tracked. You'll know what we're doing, why, and how to measure whether it's working.
I work with first responders, military, law enforcement, corrections, and healthcare professionals carrying PTSD, complex trauma, nightmares, OCD, anxiety, and the weight of high-risk work.
I use the gold-standard treatments for trauma and anxiety: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Imagery Rehearsal Therapy for nightmares, and ERP for OCD. Sessions are structured, collaborative, and outcome-tracked. You'll know what we're doing, why, and how to measure whether it's working.
(858) 208-3794 View (858) 208-3794
Stefanie M Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Online Only
Sources of trauma include: accidents, traumatic loss, complicated grief, childhood trauma (including that which has been buried for years), COSR (combat/operational stress reaction), PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), ASR (acute stress reaction), and secondary trauma from service as (and/or with) the Military, various Agencies, Medical / Frontline / First Responders, Search & Rescue, Firefighters and Law Enforcement personnel, among others.
Values inspired by my WWII combat-veteran father and RN mother have informed my work w/ First Responders, LEO, & military mbrs since 2007 at Evans Army Hospital, Ft Carson, CO; inpatient chemical dependency and military PTSD programs at Cedar Spgs Hospital, and in private practice.
Sources of trauma include: accidents, traumatic loss, complicated grief, childhood trauma (including that which has been buried for years), COSR (combat/operational stress reaction), PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), ASR (acute stress reaction), and secondary trauma from service as (and/or with) the Military, various Agencies, Medical / Frontline / First Responders, Search & Rescue, Firefighters and Law Enforcement personnel, among others.
Values inspired by my WWII combat-veteran father and RN mother have informed my work w/ First Responders, LEO, & military mbrs since 2007 at Evans Army Hospital, Ft Carson, CO; inpatient chemical dependency and military PTSD programs at Cedar Spgs Hospital, and in private practice.
(949) 867-7166 View (949) 867-7166
Carolina Schubert
Pre-Licensed Professional
3 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
Are you and your partner having the same arguments without resolution, feeling more like roommates, or struggling to rebuild trust after hurt or betrayal? You may love each other and still feel unsure how to move forward. I work with couples and adults facing communication breakdowns, disconnection, infidelity, parenting disagreements, and major life transitions. Together, we’ll understand the patterns keeping you stuck and build practical skills to restore trust, communicate more effectively, and feel connected again.
Are you and your partner having the same arguments without resolution, feeling more like roommates, or struggling to rebuild trust after hurt or betrayal? You may love each other and still feel unsure how to move forward. I work with couples and adults facing communication breakdowns, disconnection, infidelity, parenting disagreements, and major life transitions. Together, we’ll understand the patterns keeping you stuck and build practical skills to restore trust, communicate more effectively, and feel connected again.
(951) 405-6547 View (951) 405-6547
Evelyn Vasquez
Psychologist, LP
Online Only
Evelyn Vasquez, and I currently ONLY work with people who operate under extraordinary occupational pressure, including first responders, veterans, medical providers, elite athletes, and other high-performing professionals who are under extreme pressure to help others.
My approach is about helping explore who you are, changing what you don't like, and giving you tools that actually work within the realities of your life. Whether you're working rotating shifts, managing a packed competition schedule, juggling court dates, or dealing with the unpredictability of emergency services.
Evelyn Vasquez, and I currently ONLY work with people who operate under extraordinary occupational pressure, including first responders, veterans, medical providers, elite athletes, and other high-performing professionals who are under extreme pressure to help others.
My approach is about helping explore who you are, changing what you don't like, and giving you tools that actually work within the realities of your life. Whether you're working rotating shifts, managing a packed competition schedule, juggling court dates, or dealing with the unpredictability of emergency services.
(760) 350-1968 View (760) 350-1968
Ashlee N. Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CCTP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with first responders, law enforcement, and federal employees and provide individual and family treatment.
I enjoy working with individuals and families who want to change conflicting dynamics, communication breakdowns, and dysfunctional patterns/relationships. I am trained in several trauma-focused and evidence-based treatments for those seeking support to rebound from traumatic events and difficult life transitions. Currently I am NOT providing Couples Therapy.
I specialize in working with first responders, law enforcement, and federal employees and provide individual and family treatment.
I enjoy working with individuals and families who want to change conflicting dynamics, communication breakdowns, and dysfunctional patterns/relationships. I am trained in several trauma-focused and evidence-based treatments for those seeking support to rebound from traumatic events and difficult life transitions. Currently I am NOT providing Couples Therapy.
(951) 904-2754 View (951) 904-2754
Lighthouse Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I provide a direct, supportive, and empowering space where clients can show up authentically and feel genuinely understood. My approach is grounded in collaboration. I work alongside you to identify patterns, build insight, and develop practical tools that support lasting change. I integrate evidence-based practices with a strong emphasis on psychoeducation, helping you better understand yourself and your experiences. I will challenge you while also supporting you. My goal is to help you feel more confident, regulated, and in control of your life. Lasting change starts here, and we will build it together with clarity and intention.
I provide a direct, supportive, and empowering space where clients can show up authentically and feel genuinely understood. My approach is grounded in collaboration. I work alongside you to identify patterns, build insight, and develop practical tools that support lasting change. I integrate evidence-based practices with a strong emphasis on psychoeducation, helping you better understand yourself and your experiences. I will challenge you while also supporting you. My goal is to help you feel more confident, regulated, and in control of your life. Lasting change starts here, and we will build it together with clarity and intention.
(619) 975-3577 View (619) 975-3577
Janelle Gallardo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who provides individual therapy using an eclectic framework.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who provides individual therapy using an eclectic framework.
(951) 489-3903 View (951) 489-3903
Dr. George Dabdoub
Psychologist, PsyD
6 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
If you’re looking for quality Private Counseling sessions with providers who care, then you’ve come to the right place. At our group practice, Bellator Psychological and Consultants Corporation, we guide our patients every step of the way and implement methods to help them develop new attitudes towards all of life’s most complex matters. Clearing away obstacles and dysfunction can occur faster than expected and allow us to engage life with a clear mind, a healthy view, and joy.
If you’re looking for quality Private Counseling sessions with providers who care, then you’ve come to the right place. At our group practice, Bellator Psychological and Consultants Corporation, we guide our patients every step of the way and implement methods to help them develop new attitudes towards all of life’s most complex matters. Clearing away obstacles and dysfunction can occur faster than expected and allow us to engage life with a clear mind, a healthy view, and joy.
(909) 323-0911 View (909) 323-0911

See more therapy options for Camp Pendleton

First Responders Therapists
Why is mental health important for first responders?
As part of their work, first responders are often exposed to high levels of stress, trauma, and physical injury that can put them at a greater risk for serious mental health conditions than the general population. Conditions like PTSD, anxiety, substance use, and depression are more common in first responders, which can greatly reduce quality of life and lead to burnout, sleep disruption, and even suicidal thoughts. Therapy can offer an opportunity for first responders to process difficult on-the-job experiences and develop coping skills to better manage any mental health symptoms they may experience.

How can first responders get access to mental health support?
Many first responders can access therapy for free or at a very low cost through their employer, such as through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Workplaces may also offer or have referral recommendations for support groups, where first responders can meet with others in their profession to receive support. Individuals who would like to access mental health services outside of their employer may use their insurance benefits to see a therapist, which they can find by searching for therapists online or asking for recommendations from their primary care physician.

What type of therapy is best for first responders?
The best therapy approach depends on the mental health concerns of the client. Since many first responders struggle with trauma or PTSD, they may benefit from trauma-specific therapeutic approaches, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Exposure Therapy, or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Individuals with symptoms of anxiety, depression, or stress may alternatively benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based therapeutic approaches, which can help clients develop coping skills to manage distressing thoughts.

Can therapy for first responders help with trauma and PTSD?
Therapy can be highly effective in both treating and preventing trauma and PTSD in first responders. Typically, therapy for trauma and PTSD focuses on developing stress management skills and managing intrusive or unwanted thoughts. Therapists working with first responders often help clients strengthen their relationships and reduce harmful coping mechanisms, such as excessive substance use. Additionally, therapists assist first responders in establishing daily habits that support overall mental and physical health and enhance resilience to future stress, such as regular physical exercise, mindfulness practices, and improved eating habits.