First Responders Therapists in Castro Valley, CA
You want to feel better. You're tired of being anxious, depressed, drinking too much and ashamed of yourself. You can deal with your issues and move forward. Often it doesn't have to take years for deep change to occur. Together, we can work through your core pain, so that you can get on with your life. I am accepting, validating, challenging (when needed) and like to laugh. I can be a guide in your journey to having a better life.
You want to feel better. You're tired of being anxious, depressed, drinking too much and ashamed of yourself. You can deal with your issues and move forward. Often it doesn't have to take years for deep change to occur. Together, we can work through your core pain, so that you can get on with your life. I am accepting, validating, challenging (when needed) and like to laugh. I can be a guide in your journey to having a better life.
My practice also includes providing therapy to students, law enforcement, teachers, first responders, and medical personnel.
I offer in person therapy sessions for couples, individuals (adults, children, teens) and families. My focus includes professional counseling for marriages, relationships, single and co-parenting issues, trauma recovery, family conflict, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, codependency, addiction/recovery, and co-occurring disorders.
My practice also includes providing therapy to students, law enforcement, teachers, first responders, and medical personnel.
I offer in person therapy sessions for couples, individuals (adults, children, teens) and families. My focus includes professional counseling for marriages, relationships, single and co-parenting issues, trauma recovery, family conflict, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, codependency, addiction/recovery, and co-occurring disorders.
Hi! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in Northern California. I have a BA in Psychology and a MA in Counseling Psychology both from Humboldt State University. I have been working the field of mental health for over 30 years and have been licensed since 2007.
Hi! I'm Lisa and I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in Northern California. I have a BA in Psychology and a MA in Counseling Psychology both from Humboldt State University. I have been working the field of mental health for over 30 years and have been licensed since 2007.
Hello. I am trilingual in English, Cantonese and Mandarin. I work with adults, families and couples. My training and expertise are treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/family/in-law issues, psychosis, work related stresses, life transition, immigrations and identity exploration. My therapy styles are warm, client centered, emotional focused. I share with my clients a lot that "You want to make sure you feel comfortable talking to me." and it is true because therapy is personal.
Hello. I am trilingual in English, Cantonese and Mandarin. I work with adults, families and couples. My training and expertise are treating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/family/in-law issues, psychosis, work related stresses, life transition, immigrations and identity exploration. My therapy styles are warm, client centered, emotional focused. I share with my clients a lot that "You want to make sure you feel comfortable talking to me." and it is true because therapy is personal.
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If you find yourself struggling, feeling overwhelmed, or looking for personal growth; take this opportunity to challenge yourself. My aim is to work together to help you illuminate your path. Through introspection and confidence building we will work on developing the skills and courage to continue your journey toward a more satisfying life.
If you find yourself struggling, feeling overwhelmed, or looking for personal growth; take this opportunity to challenge yourself. My aim is to work together to help you illuminate your path. Through introspection and confidence building we will work on developing the skills and courage to continue your journey toward a more satisfying life.
Welcome to my profile. I hope it will help you find a therapist who is a good fit for you.
My name is Jon. I have 28 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my MA in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Holistic Studies in 2002 and have been a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2009.
Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a dishwasher, forklift driver, small business manager, and completed an internship with the United Nations. I have lived and worked overseas and across the United States, collaborating with people from many different backgrounds.
Welcome to my profile. I hope it will help you find a therapist who is a good fit for you.
My name is Jon. I have 28 years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my MA in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Holistic Studies in 2002 and have been a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2009.
Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a dishwasher, forklift driver, small business manager, and completed an internship with the United Nations. I have lived and worked overseas and across the United States, collaborating with people from many different backgrounds.
With over 11 years of experience, I specialize in working with neurodivergent and emotionally complex clients—including first responders, trauma survivors, and members of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
If you’re looking for a therapist who will actually listen—who won’t dismiss your concerns or pathologize your pain—you’re in the right place.
Maybe you're wondering if you have ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Maybe you've been masking for years and don’t know where to start. Maybe you're carrying trauma, grief, or a deep sense that something has always felt a little off. I work with people who’ve spent too long feeling misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or minimized—and are ready for something different.
You don’t need a perfect narrative. You don’t need to show up polished. You don’t even need to be sure what you need yet.
With over 11 years of experience, I specialize in working with neurodivergent and emotionally complex clients—including first responders, trauma survivors, and members of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
If you’re looking for a therapist who will actually listen—who won’t dismiss your concerns or pathologize your pain—you’re in the right place.
Maybe you're wondering if you have ADHD, autism, or anxiety. Maybe you've been masking for years and don’t know where to start. Maybe you're carrying trauma, grief, or a deep sense that something has always felt a little off. I work with people who’ve spent too long feeling misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or minimized—and are ready for something different.
You don’t need a perfect narrative. You don’t need to show up polished. You don’t even need to be sure what you need yet.
At Guided Perspectives Marriage and Family Therapy, we believe that life's transitions—no matter how planned or unexpected—can deeply impact our relationships, mental health, and sense of purpose. Led by husband-and-wife team Jeremy and Charity Horn, our practice is built on the foundation of empathy, collaboration, and practical, personalized support.
We specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families successfully navigate periods of transition, including: Work and life responsibilities. Becoming a caregiver for a loved one. Shifts in employment or leadership roles. Stepping into new stages of life.
At Guided Perspectives Marriage and Family Therapy, we believe that life's transitions—no matter how planned or unexpected—can deeply impact our relationships, mental health, and sense of purpose. Led by husband-and-wife team Jeremy and Charity Horn, our practice is built on the foundation of empathy, collaboration, and practical, personalized support.
We specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families successfully navigate periods of transition, including: Work and life responsibilities. Becoming a caregiver for a loved one. Shifts in employment or leadership roles. Stepping into new stages of life.
I have helped a variety of clients of all ages with various issues, including trauma ( first responders, childhood, intergenerational, sexual), anxiety, sexual issues, anger management, grief/loss, social-emotional skills, and ADHD management.
I take a strengths-based, compassionate, non-judgmental, and curious approach to therapy that fosters a warm and safe environment. I believe therapy can be fun and creative and as such utilize a variety of techniques with clients, including CBT, somatic, art and play interventions, and mindfulness-based techniques in order to keep therapy more engaging.
I have helped a variety of clients of all ages with various issues, including trauma ( first responders, childhood, intergenerational, sexual), anxiety, sexual issues, anger management, grief/loss, social-emotional skills, and ADHD management.
I take a strengths-based, compassionate, non-judgmental, and curious approach to therapy that fosters a warm and safe environment. I believe therapy can be fun and creative and as such utilize a variety of techniques with clients, including CBT, somatic, art and play interventions, and mindfulness-based techniques in order to keep therapy more engaging.
Hello and welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing telehealth therapy to adults across California. I work with clients seeking to maximize the quality of their life experience. Some clients may be experiencing anxiety, ADHD, stress, and life transitions, as well as those seeking greater self-understanding and balance. My approach is collaborative, practical, and compassionate. Together we’ll build insight, develop effective coping strategies, and create meaningful changes so you can feel more grounded, confident, and aligned with the life you want to live.
Hello and welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing telehealth therapy to adults across California. I work with clients seeking to maximize the quality of their life experience. Some clients may be experiencing anxiety, ADHD, stress, and life transitions, as well as those seeking greater self-understanding and balance. My approach is collaborative, practical, and compassionate. Together we’ll build insight, develop effective coping strategies, and create meaningful changes so you can feel more grounded, confident, and aligned with the life you want to live.
I specialize in EMDR and Brainspotting for First Responders, Veterans, and survivors of trauma.
You aren’t looking for traditional talk therapy; you’re looking to resolve the physiological aftermath of high-stakes stress. Whether you are a First Responder, Veteran, or survivor of complex trauma, "white-knuckling" your way through the day isn't working. I specialize in high-acuity trauma recovery, moving beyond simple conversation into neurological resolution.
With 13+ years of experience, I use EMDR and Brainspotting to target distress where it lives: in the nervous system. My approach is direct, clinical, and built for those who have seen the unthinkable.
I specialize in EMDR and Brainspotting for First Responders, Veterans, and survivors of trauma.
You aren’t looking for traditional talk therapy; you’re looking to resolve the physiological aftermath of high-stakes stress. Whether you are a First Responder, Veteran, or survivor of complex trauma, "white-knuckling" your way through the day isn't working. I specialize in high-acuity trauma recovery, moving beyond simple conversation into neurological resolution.
With 13+ years of experience, I use EMDR and Brainspotting to target distress where it lives: in the nervous system. My approach is direct, clinical, and built for those who have seen the unthinkable.
Hello,
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California. I have a doctorate degree (Ed.d) in Traumatology. I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, or a variety of emotions due to life's challenges and circumstances.
My goal is to provide clients with all of the tools necessary to navigate through future situations and to help build resiliency.
Hello,
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California. I have a doctorate degree (Ed.d) in Traumatology. I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, or a variety of emotions due to life's challenges and circumstances.
My goal is to provide clients with all of the tools necessary to navigate through future situations and to help build resiliency.
I work with high-achieving adults who are used to holding it all together—but internally feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. Many of my clients are medical professionals or individuals living with chronic health conditions who are navigating stress, burnout, and the emotional weight of responsibility.
If you’re used to being the strong one for everyone else, it can be difficult to slow down and focus on your own needs. You may notice anxiety, irritability, disconnection, or a sense that you’re running on empty. Therapy offers a space where you don’t have to perform, fix, or push through.
I work with high-achieving adults who are used to holding it all together—but internally feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. Many of my clients are medical professionals or individuals living with chronic health conditions who are navigating stress, burnout, and the emotional weight of responsibility.
If you’re used to being the strong one for everyone else, it can be difficult to slow down and focus on your own needs. You may notice anxiety, irritability, disconnection, or a sense that you’re running on empty. Therapy offers a space where you don’t have to perform, fix, or push through.
As first responders and emergency workers, you’re trained to stay sharp.
Therapy should make life easier: less edge, more patience, faster decompression.
We’ll keep it practical, with clear goals and week-to-week tracking. We’ll use EMDR if trauma symptoms are present—an evidence-based treatment for reducing hyperarousal and shutdown. I worked for eight years as a crisis counselor, and I’m familiar with emergency work culture.
As first responders and emergency workers, you’re trained to stay sharp.
Therapy should make life easier: less edge, more patience, faster decompression.
We’ll keep it practical, with clear goals and week-to-week tracking. We’ll use EMDR if trauma symptoms are present—an evidence-based treatment for reducing hyperarousal and shutdown. I worked for eight years as a crisis counselor, and I’m familiar with emergency work culture.
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.
I have a nursing / medical background that facilitates my comfort in working within the medical professions, emergency & paramedic services.
I am engaging, warm and thoughtful in my style of relating. I am comfortable working with couples & individuals engaged in occupations that require emergency responses to incidents that are traumatic and may cause vulnerability to post traumatic stress disorder. I provide therapeutic intervention to people who work in the protective services professions.
I have a nursing / medical background that facilitates my comfort in working within the medical professions, emergency & paramedic services.
I am engaging, warm and thoughtful in my style of relating. I am comfortable working with couples & individuals engaged in occupations that require emergency responses to incidents that are traumatic and may cause vulnerability to post traumatic stress disorder. I provide therapeutic intervention to people who work in the protective services professions.
I have experience with a variety of mental health and emotional issues including depression, anxiety, anger, life changes, chronic pain, trauma and more, including the unique issues facing First Responders.
I work with adults ages 18 to 65+ experiencing depression, anxiety, chronic pain, life transitions, career stress, school challenges, relationship issues, and more. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can safely explore emotions, past experiences, and current stressors. Together, we’ll build healthy coping skills and practical solutions for lasting change. When appropriate, I incorporate mindfulness, breathwork, and yoga-based techniques to support healing, balance, and emotional well-being.
I have experience with a variety of mental health and emotional issues including depression, anxiety, anger, life changes, chronic pain, trauma and more, including the unique issues facing First Responders.
I work with adults ages 18 to 65+ experiencing depression, anxiety, chronic pain, life transitions, career stress, school challenges, relationship issues, and more. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can safely explore emotions, past experiences, and current stressors. Together, we’ll build healthy coping skills and practical solutions for lasting change. When appropriate, I incorporate mindfulness, breathwork, and yoga-based techniques to support healing, balance, and emotional well-being.
I specialize in working with first responders and individuals who have experienced trauma, understanding the complexities of high-stress professions and their impact on mental health.
I approach goal setting collaboratively, working with you to identify what's most important and what changes you'd like to see. Together, we'll break down larger goals into manageable steps, ensuring they are realistic and aligned with your values. I regularly check in to celebrate progress and adjust goals as needed.
I specialize in working with first responders and individuals who have experienced trauma, understanding the complexities of high-stress professions and their impact on mental health.
I approach goal setting collaboratively, working with you to identify what's most important and what changes you'd like to see. Together, we'll break down larger goals into manageable steps, ensuring they are realistic and aligned with your values. I regularly check in to celebrate progress and adjust goals as needed.
I have been in the mental health and counseling field for 9 years and counting. I have worked in a college counseling setting, State Hospital, County Mental Health and church counseling setting as well. One of my specialties I like to focus on and be of support is with Trauma therapy, coping skills, adjusting to life events, and much more.
I have been in the mental health and counseling field for 9 years and counting. I have worked in a college counseling setting, State Hospital, County Mental Health and church counseling setting as well. One of my specialties I like to focus on and be of support is with Trauma therapy, coping skills, adjusting to life events, and much more.
Client types that this is useful for: highly responsible adults in their work that have high demands on them, people who have difficulty saying no to others, adult children of narcissists, adult children of alcoholics/dysfunction, first responders with vicarious trauma, trauma victims, PTSD, family members of suicide, TBI and family members of TBI.
One of the biggest hindrances to starting therapy is the thought of having to talk about the most painful part of our world. What if there was a way to do therapy where we didn't have to go into your most painful wound? The good news is there's lots of ways to do therapy that can bring comfort and relief right now without having to go into the trauma. There are new ways to start healing without having to dredge up old wounds and re-examine them needlessly. I also work in integrative therapy spaces utilizing plant medicine and ketamine. This has had AMAZING effects for my clients.
Client types that this is useful for: highly responsible adults in their work that have high demands on them, people who have difficulty saying no to others, adult children of narcissists, adult children of alcoholics/dysfunction, first responders with vicarious trauma, trauma victims, PTSD, family members of suicide, TBI and family members of TBI.
One of the biggest hindrances to starting therapy is the thought of having to talk about the most painful part of our world. What if there was a way to do therapy where we didn't have to go into your most painful wound? The good news is there's lots of ways to do therapy that can bring comfort and relief right now without having to go into the trauma. There are new ways to start healing without having to dredge up old wounds and re-examine them needlessly. I also work in integrative therapy spaces utilizing plant medicine and ketamine. This has had AMAZING effects for my clients.
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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.


