First Responders Therapists in Lafayette, CA
Welcome! As a licensed clinical psychotherapist and social worker with over 35 years of experience, I am dedicated to your well-being and wholeness.
If you suffer trauma, have anxiety, are struggling with PTSD or life stressors, stay stuck in repeat patterns, seek support for self-esteem or relationship issues, can't find your strengths or worth I am here to help. Together, we will identify the challenges you are facing, develop your internal resources, grow your strengths, break negative patterns, build coping tools, and work on strategies to help you move forward in life with clarity, confidence, and resilience—one step at a time.
Welcome! As a licensed clinical psychotherapist and social worker with over 35 years of experience, I am dedicated to your well-being and wholeness.
If you suffer trauma, have anxiety, are struggling with PTSD or life stressors, stay stuck in repeat patterns, seek support for self-esteem or relationship issues, can't find your strengths or worth I am here to help. Together, we will identify the challenges you are facing, develop your internal resources, grow your strengths, break negative patterns, build coping tools, and work on strategies to help you move forward in life with clarity, confidence, and resilience—one step at a time.
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, self-aware, and deeply caring — yet still find themselves struggling internally or repeating patterns that no longer serve them.
As a therapist, I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space for people to slow down, build self-understanding, and develop healthier ways of relating to self and others.
Whether you are seeking relief from emotional distress, clarity during a period of change, or deeper connection and authenticity in your relationships, our work together can help you move toward greater balance, resilience, and self-compassion.
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, self-aware, and deeply caring — yet still find themselves struggling internally or repeating patterns that no longer serve them.
As a therapist, I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space for people to slow down, build self-understanding, and develop healthier ways of relating to self and others.
Whether you are seeking relief from emotional distress, clarity during a period of change, or deeper connection and authenticity in your relationships, our work together can help you move toward greater balance, resilience, and self-compassion.
You’ve already done therapy and understand your patterns—but still feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, overthinking, or intrusive thoughts. You can see what’s happening, but something deeper isn’t shifting. Your system doesn’t fully settle.
You might replay conversations, get pulled into “what if” spirals, or feel a quiet, constant sense of unease. Even when you tell yourself you’re okay, your body holds onto something else—leaving you tired, on edge, and ready for change that actually reaches beneath the surface.
You’ve already done therapy and understand your patterns—but still feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, overthinking, or intrusive thoughts. You can see what’s happening, but something deeper isn’t shifting. Your system doesn’t fully settle.
You might replay conversations, get pulled into “what if” spirals, or feel a quiet, constant sense of unease. Even when you tell yourself you’re okay, your body holds onto something else—leaving you tired, on edge, and ready for change that actually reaches beneath the surface.
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
I also provide treatment for first responders struggling with on the job trauma related symptoms.
I believe I offer a very no nonsense, practical supportive approach. I am told that i dont come across as judgmental which is important when coming to therapy to talk about things that might be shameful or embarrassing. I worked in the California prison system for seven years so I have pretty much heard it all and can tolerate very difficult subject matter.
I also provide treatment for first responders struggling with on the job trauma related symptoms.
I believe I offer a very no nonsense, practical supportive approach. I am told that i dont come across as judgmental which is important when coming to therapy to talk about things that might be shameful or embarrassing. I worked in the California prison system for seven years so I have pretty much heard it all and can tolerate very difficult subject matter.
I consider it an honor to walk with you as you navigate the challenges and obstacles that life has thrown your way. My passion is working with individuals who have experienced trauma, struggle with anxiety, feel stressed, are having relationship problems, or are experiencing depression. Working with adults, I am able to support you with life challenges in your relationship or work, coping with loss, aging, parenting, and any number of events that might be causing you to feel anxious, worried, or at a crossroads in life.
I consider it an honor to walk with you as you navigate the challenges and obstacles that life has thrown your way. My passion is working with individuals who have experienced trauma, struggle with anxiety, feel stressed, are having relationship problems, or are experiencing depression. Working with adults, I am able to support you with life challenges in your relationship or work, coping with loss, aging, parenting, and any number of events that might be causing you to feel anxious, worried, or at a crossroads in life.
If you yearn to focus on you and your needs, welcome! In this world of AI we can experience IRL Walk/Talk therapy in Oakland on Ohlone lands or video sessions. We'll always start with the understanding that while you want to change, there also is nothing “wrong” with you; where you are now makes sense. We’ll work on enhancing what is helping you, support what is your true nature, and with self-compassion process past hurts, while developing new insights and skills. I bring training in EMDR, Somatic and IFS informed EMDR, eco-therapy principles, and more, to honor who you’ve been and supporting who you’re becoming. I accept insurance
If you yearn to focus on you and your needs, welcome! In this world of AI we can experience IRL Walk/Talk therapy in Oakland on Ohlone lands or video sessions. We'll always start with the understanding that while you want to change, there also is nothing “wrong” with you; where you are now makes sense. We’ll work on enhancing what is helping you, support what is your true nature, and with self-compassion process past hurts, while developing new insights and skills. I bring training in EMDR, Somatic and IFS informed EMDR, eco-therapy principles, and more, to honor who you’ve been and supporting who you’re becoming. I accept insurance
My ideal client is someone who is doing their best to hold it all together—navigating the complexities of life, relationships, parenting, or personal growth—but feels stuck, overwhelmed, or misaligned with the person they want to be. They may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, struggling with conflict in their family or partnership, or feeling disconnected from their deeper sense of purpose. They’re curious, reflective, and willing to try something different, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. They may not know what it looks like to live in alignment with their values, but they’re eager to find out.
My ideal client is someone who is doing their best to hold it all together—navigating the complexities of life, relationships, parenting, or personal growth—but feels stuck, overwhelmed, or misaligned with the person they want to be. They may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, struggling with conflict in their family or partnership, or feeling disconnected from their deeper sense of purpose. They’re curious, reflective, and willing to try something different, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. They may not know what it looks like to live in alignment with their values, but they’re eager to find out.
East Bay Christian Counseling & Neurofeedback
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, BCN
Serves Area
I'm Patty Shirley - East Bay Christian Counseling. Attuned Neurofeedback is a very individualized form of therapy. It is a non-invasive, painless form of biofeedback, using no drugs or medications. It has been shown to enhance overall brain function and performance and be effective in reducing traits of ADHD, PTSD, OCD, trauma, depression, anxiety, and more.
Electrodes, small sensors on the scalp, record the brain's activity. By giving positive feedback and reinforcement through audible and visual cues on a monitor, Operant Conditioning, it is like playing
a video game using only your brain and
no controller.
I'm Patty Shirley - East Bay Christian Counseling. Attuned Neurofeedback is a very individualized form of therapy. It is a non-invasive, painless form of biofeedback, using no drugs or medications. It has been shown to enhance overall brain function and performance and be effective in reducing traits of ADHD, PTSD, OCD, trauma, depression, anxiety, and more.
Electrodes, small sensors on the scalp, record the brain's activity. By giving positive feedback and reinforcement through audible and visual cues on a monitor, Operant Conditioning, it is like playing
a video game using only your brain and
no controller.
When we work together, my goal is to help you feel understood—not just by me, but by yourself. Many people come to therapy feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or confused by the mix of thoughts and emotions inside them. You might notice one part of you that wants to push forward and another part that feels scared. Or maybe you catch yourself repeating patterns you promised you’d stop. There’s a reason you feel the way you do, and together we can gently uncover what’s going on beneath the surface.
When we work together, my goal is to help you feel understood—not just by me, but by yourself. Many people come to therapy feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or confused by the mix of thoughts and emotions inside them. You might notice one part of you that wants to push forward and another part that feels scared. Or maybe you catch yourself repeating patterns you promised you’d stop. There’s a reason you feel the way you do, and together we can gently uncover what’s going on beneath the surface.
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 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.
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 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.
I help individuals, couples, and/or families grow toward healing and health through integrative therapy. Throughout the lifespan many things can happen to interfere with our relational health- addiction, body image, trauma, depression, just to name a few- and I have experience guiding my clients through them all. Together we will work towards you, your relationships, or your family system becoming its most empowered and functional.
I help individuals, couples, and/or families grow toward healing and health through integrative therapy. Throughout the lifespan many things can happen to interfere with our relational health- addiction, body image, trauma, depression, just to name a few- and I have experience guiding my clients through them all. Together we will work towards you, your relationships, or your family system becoming its most empowered and functional.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 years of experience in trauma and trauma related injuries, crisis interventions, first responders, critical incident debriefing, and serious mental illness. I am also experienced in symptom management for serious mental illness as well as family support for crisis management. I am skilled in creating a supportive environment where clients feel safe. I work closely with each client to foster resilience, self-compassion, and lasting change.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 years of experience in trauma and trauma related injuries, crisis interventions, first responders, critical incident debriefing, and serious mental illness. I am also experienced in symptom management for serious mental illness as well as family support for crisis management. I am skilled in creating a supportive environment where clients feel safe. I work closely with each client to foster resilience, self-compassion, and lasting change.
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.
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.
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.
See more therapy options for Lafayette
Nearby First Responders Therapists Searches for Lafayette
See More First Responders Therapists 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.