First Responders Therapists in Danville, CA
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.
I have extensive experience working with individuals with anxiety disorders and trauma and bring warmth and creativity into my work. Whether it’s exploration of feelings, a few minutes with paint or sand, or even a walk, I am passionate about meeting the client’s needs and committed to finding what works for each individual person. I believe that within each of us lies the strength to reach our goals and psychotherapists are present to support and cheer us through the process of discovery.
I have extensive experience working with individuals with anxiety disorders and trauma and bring warmth and creativity into my work. Whether it’s exploration of feelings, a few minutes with paint or sand, or even a walk, I am passionate about meeting the client’s needs and committed to finding what works for each individual person. I believe that within each of us lies the strength to reach our goals and psychotherapists are present to support and cheer us through the process of discovery.
Lyssia O'Shaughnessy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work comfortably with challenges such as trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, first responder/ military issues, and family dynamics.
I utilize an integrated approach to tailoring to each person, using an attachment focus and leaning on EMDR, Brainspotting, Psychodynamic/Insight Oriented, CBT & ACT. I lean heavily on client-centered lenses, focusing on insight and depth work, but with extensive training in brief modalities, I can support more direct and acute concerns as well.
I work comfortably with challenges such as trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, first responder/ military issues, and family dynamics.
I utilize an integrated approach to tailoring to each person, using an attachment focus and leaning on EMDR, Brainspotting, Psychodynamic/Insight Oriented, CBT & ACT. I lean heavily on client-centered lenses, focusing on insight and depth work, but with extensive training in brief modalities, I can support more direct and acute concerns as well.
I also work with many first responders and understand the unique stressors they face.
I work at your pace and believe a strong therapeutic relationship is key to creating change and developing self-awareness. I help clients strengthen relationships, improve connection, and navigate life transitions. I am also certified in EMDR to help address emotional difficulties related to traumatic experiences.
I also work with many first responders and understand the unique stressors they face.
I work at your pace and believe a strong therapeutic relationship is key to creating change and developing self-awareness. I help clients strengthen relationships, improve connection, and navigate life transitions. I am also certified in EMDR to help address emotional difficulties related to traumatic experiences.
As a former emergency nurse leader and now a Behavioral Fitness Facilitator (BFF), I understand how easy it is to push through and power on
Hi, I’m Teri, co-founder of Behavioral Fitness in Walnut Creek, CA. I help people move through life's challenges- whether it's stress, burnout, feeling lost in transition, or struggling to care for yourself the way you care for everyone else- and come out the other side feeling clear, calm, and connected to what matters most.
As a former emergency nurse leader and now a Behavioral Fitness Facilitator (BFF), I understand how easy it is to push through and power on
Hi, I’m Teri, co-founder of Behavioral Fitness in Walnut Creek, CA. I help people move through life's challenges- whether it's stress, burnout, feeling lost in transition, or struggling to care for yourself the way you care for everyone else- and come out the other side feeling clear, calm, and connected to what matters most.
I also work with First Responders.
Hello, and welcome to my site. My goal in working with every client is to create a space where they feel seen, heard, understood and safe to be their authentic self. I have over 30 years of experience assisting people of all ages and all walks of life in finding a sense of contentment and hope for the future
I also work with First Responders.
Hello, and welcome to my site. My goal in working with every client is to create a space where they feel seen, heard, understood and safe to be their authentic self. I have over 30 years of experience assisting people of all ages and all walks of life in finding a sense of contentment and hope for the future
My ideal client feels stuck despite trying hard to move forward. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, or a quiet sense of disconnection. Many are high-achieving professionals or caregivers who have spent years taking care of others while neglecting themselves. Some have tried therapy or medication and still feel something has not fully shifted. They want more than symptom relief. They want clarity, emotional steadiness, and a deeper understanding of themselves. They are ready for lasting change, not another temporary solution.
My ideal client feels stuck despite trying hard to move forward. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, or a quiet sense of disconnection. Many are high-achieving professionals or caregivers who have spent years taking care of others while neglecting themselves. Some have tried therapy or medication and still feel something has not fully shifted. They want more than symptom relief. They want clarity, emotional steadiness, and a deeper understanding of themselves. They are ready for lasting change, not another temporary solution.
I am a licensed psychologist and certified Hendricks Big Leap Coach. I work with young adults, adults, and elderly people, and provide care for individuals struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. In addition, I work with people who are struggling with career, academic, and sports related issues; and who want to gain clarity and take action on the next steps that will facilitate performance enhancement and/or mind-body well-being.
I am a licensed psychologist and certified Hendricks Big Leap Coach. I work with young adults, adults, and elderly people, and provide care for individuals struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. In addition, I work with people who are struggling with career, academic, and sports related issues; and who want to gain clarity and take action on the next steps that will facilitate performance enhancement and/or mind-body well-being.
I am a Licensed Therapist passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, balance, and resilience. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, and trauma. My goal is to provide a supportive and collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change.
I am a Licensed Therapist passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity, balance, and resilience. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, and trauma. My goal is to provide a supportive and collaborative space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change.
Hi! I'm Marisa Sommerhalder, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Walnut Creek and virtually throughout California. Maybe you're a high school or college student feeling overwhelmed by stress, pressure, or uncertainty about the future? Has anxiety, self-doubt, or social challenges make it hard to feel confident or motivated? You want to better understand your emotions, improve relationships, and find a sense of balance and direction. You’re looking for a supportive space to build coping tools, strengthen self-awareness, and feel more grounded as you navigate school, friendships, and life transitions.
Hi! I'm Marisa Sommerhalder, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Walnut Creek and virtually throughout California. Maybe you're a high school or college student feeling overwhelmed by stress, pressure, or uncertainty about the future? Has anxiety, self-doubt, or social challenges make it hard to feel confident or motivated? You want to better understand your emotions, improve relationships, and find a sense of balance and direction. You’re looking for a supportive space to build coping tools, strengthen self-awareness, and feel more grounded as you navigate school, friendships, and life transitions.
More Therapists Nearby
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.
Living well - mind, body & spirit - is the goal many strive for daily. However, sometimes life throws you a curve ball and you find it hard to keep all the balls of life going.
Working as a professional Social Worker for many years in hospitals and various other settings has afforded me the opportunity to have extensive experiences with clients that have had multiple needs. My specialties include: general life adjustments, crisis intervention, grief and loss, substance abuse, trauma, mild to chronic medical conditions and illnesses, interpersonal violence (Domestic Violence, Abuse and Sexual Assault), community violence, re-entry and adoption/foster care issues.
Living well - mind, body & spirit - is the goal many strive for daily. However, sometimes life throws you a curve ball and you find it hard to keep all the balls of life going.
Working as a professional Social Worker for many years in hospitals and various other settings has afforded me the opportunity to have extensive experiences with clients that have had multiple needs. My specialties include: general life adjustments, crisis intervention, grief and loss, substance abuse, trauma, mild to chronic medical conditions and illnesses, interpersonal violence (Domestic Violence, Abuse and Sexual Assault), community violence, re-entry and adoption/foster care issues.
As a military veteran, I bring a grounded, resilient perspective to my work.
During our first session we will review what to expect from the therapy process. I will ask questions about your history, including personal, family, and medical background, to better understand your current situation. We'll discuss what brought you to therapy and why now. e
As a military veteran, I bring a grounded, resilient perspective to my work.
During our first session we will review what to expect from the therapy process. I will ask questions about your history, including personal, family, and medical background, to better understand your current situation. We'll discuss what brought you to therapy and why now. e
I help individuals, families, and first responders navigate stress, trauma, and relationship challenges using CBT, DBT, and narrative approaches.
As an Army veteran and former law enforcement officer, I understand the pressure, trauma, and unspoken expectations that come with service. Many clients come to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to turn. I offer therapy for stress, trauma, and relationship challenges, as well as thorough Autism and ADHD evaluations for children, teens, and adults. My approach is grounded, compassionate, and practical. If you’re seeking clarity, growth, and support from someone who truly understands your world, I invite you to reach out.
I help individuals, families, and first responders navigate stress, trauma, and relationship challenges using CBT, DBT, and narrative approaches.
As an Army veteran and former law enforcement officer, I understand the pressure, trauma, and unspoken expectations that come with service. Many clients come to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to turn. I offer therapy for stress, trauma, and relationship challenges, as well as thorough Autism and ADHD evaluations for children, teens, and adults. My approach is grounded, compassionate, and practical. If you’re seeking clarity, growth, and support from someone who truly understands your world, I invite you to reach out.
I serve first responders, trauma survivors, and women who are carrying too muc find steadiness, relief, and a clearer way forward.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I draw from trauma-informed therapy, CBT, ACT, mindfulness-based work, EMDR, and solution-focused strategies to help you understand what is happening, reduce distress, and build tools that fit your life. If you want a therapist who is direct, compassionate, and grounding, I am here to support you.
I serve first responders, trauma survivors, and women who are carrying too muc find steadiness, relief, and a clearer way forward.
My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I draw from trauma-informed therapy, CBT, ACT, mindfulness-based work, EMDR, and solution-focused strategies to help you understand what is happening, reduce distress, and build tools that fit your life. If you want a therapist who is direct, compassionate, and grounding, I am here to support you.
Additionally, I work with first responders, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) clients, and student-athletes.
I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Iowa with an emphasis in mental health. This background allows me to approach your concerns with a holistic and informed perspective.
Additionally, I work with first responders, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) clients, and student-athletes.
I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Iowa with an emphasis in mental health. This background allows me to approach your concerns with a holistic and informed perspective.
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 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.
As a former paramedic & the spouse of a firefighter, I understand firsthand the unique impact of emergency service and public safety careers.
I work with adults and teens using a trauma-informed, relational approach grounded in person-centered and psychodynamic therapy. I strive to create a safe, authentic space where you feel understood without judgment while we explore patterns that keep you stuck and build resilience, connection, and lasting change.
As a former paramedic & the spouse of a firefighter, I understand firsthand the unique impact of emergency service and public safety careers.
I work with adults and teens using a trauma-informed, relational approach grounded in person-centered and psychodynamic therapy. I strive to create a safe, authentic space where you feel understood without judgment while we explore patterns that keep you stuck and build resilience, connection, and lasting change.
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.
See more therapy options for Danville
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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.