First Responders Therapists in Piedmont, CA

Photo of Kimberly Jane Nasrul, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Kimberly Jane Nasrul
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist specializing in work with BIPOC healthcare workers, educators, activists and artists, my focus is on supporting those who are experiencing burnout and creative blockages. My therapeutic approach blends EMDR therapy and somatically-based methods rooted in expressive arts to help you reconnect with your healing gifts. In 2024, I experienced the frightening onset of seizures and a major stroke. In my rehabilitation, I relearned basic skills like speaking and walking with balance. My recovery has deepened my understanding of the profound need for self-care and compassion, especially for those in helping professions.
As a therapist specializing in work with BIPOC healthcare workers, educators, activists and artists, my focus is on supporting those who are experiencing burnout and creative blockages. My therapeutic approach blends EMDR therapy and somatically-based methods rooted in expressive arts to help you reconnect with your healing gifts. In 2024, I experienced the frightening onset of seizures and a major stroke. In my rehabilitation, I relearned basic skills like speaking and walking with balance. My recovery has deepened my understanding of the profound need for self-care and compassion, especially for those in helping professions.
(562) 545-4762 View (562) 545-4762
Photo of Dr. Marcia Grace VanDyke, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Marcia Grace VanDyke
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
With over 20 years as a CA-licensed psychologist & 40-plus in the field, I enjoy working with individuals with a variety of concerns. I have seen children as young as 3 and seniors in their 80s. Some issues I have experience with: parenting, friendship and partner relationships, difficulties with self-regulation, general and social anxiety, depression, search for meaning, transitions re: culture, career, stage of life. The goals: improved family functioning, more fluidity, greater engagement and curiosity re: self and others, better boundaries, improved coping, increased energy. Let's see if we are a good fit to work together.
With over 20 years as a CA-licensed psychologist & 40-plus in the field, I enjoy working with individuals with a variety of concerns. I have seen children as young as 3 and seniors in their 80s. Some issues I have experience with: parenting, friendship and partner relationships, difficulties with self-regulation, general and social anxiety, depression, search for meaning, transitions re: culture, career, stage of life. The goals: improved family functioning, more fluidity, greater engagement and curiosity re: self and others, better boundaries, improved coping, increased energy. Let's see if we are a good fit to work together.
(510) 391-5810 View (510) 391-5810
Photo of Lisa Danylchuk, Marriage & Family Therapist, EdM, LMFT, E-RYT
Lisa Danylchuk
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdM, LMFT, E-RYT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you have endured loss, abuse, neglect, sexual assault, betrayal, natural disaster, war, or another harmful experience that feels too much to bear, there are tools that can help you heal. Trauma can impact your thoughts, mood, attention & relationships. I specialize in helping people heal from trauma and work in a way that is informed by the biology of our trauma responses. While we focus on deep healing in your nervous system, I celebrate that you are much more than a brain and bundle of nerves! I welcome working with people of all backgrounds & identities and welcome you bringing your full self (or selves) to our work together.
If you have endured loss, abuse, neglect, sexual assault, betrayal, natural disaster, war, or another harmful experience that feels too much to bear, there are tools that can help you heal. Trauma can impact your thoughts, mood, attention & relationships. I specialize in helping people heal from trauma and work in a way that is informed by the biology of our trauma responses. While we focus on deep healing in your nervous system, I celebrate that you are much more than a brain and bundle of nerves! I welcome working with people of all backgrounds & identities and welcome you bringing your full self (or selves) to our work together.
(510) 996-5688 View (510) 996-5688

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stefanie Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Stefanie Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(408) 214-8349 View (408) 214-8349
Photo of Karina Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Karina Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
San Francisco, CA 94102
My background includes working in psychiatric settings and supporting high-stress populations, including first responders.
Relationships can be one of the most rewarding and most difficult parts of life. When communication breaks down or emotional connection fades, it can affect your entire sense of stability and well-being. I specialize in couples therapy and marriage counseling, helping partners improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional intimacy.
My background includes working in psychiatric settings and supporting high-stress populations, including first responders.
Relationships can be one of the most rewarding and most difficult parts of life. When communication breaks down or emotional connection fades, it can affect your entire sense of stability and well-being. I specialize in couples therapy and marriage counseling, helping partners improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional intimacy.
(415) 304-8545 View (415) 304-8545
Photo of Richard Oelberger, Psychologist, LP
Richard Oelberger
Psychologist, LP
Online Only
I am a clinical psychologist and performance psychologist. I run men's groups and offer one-to-one sessions. I am also an author. On a personal level, I embrace community, fitness, fun, family, and adventure as part of keeping a healthy nervous system, and my why is to assist others in improving their health and quality of life through caring for themselves and their mental health in new and improved ways.
I am a clinical psychologist and performance psychologist. I run men's groups and offer one-to-one sessions. I am also an author. On a personal level, I embrace community, fitness, fun, family, and adventure as part of keeping a healthy nervous system, and my why is to assist others in improving their health and quality of life through caring for themselves and their mental health in new and improved ways.
(424) 486-9487 View (424) 486-9487
Photo of Casey Gibbs, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Casey Gibbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Online Only
Some of my clients are first responders, military members, and high-performing professionals, but you do not need a high-intensity story to belong here.
I offer trauma-informed, relational therapy grounded in trust, safety, and honest connection. My background as a flight medic, deputy sheriff, and firefighter gives me firsthand insight into high-stress environments, trauma, and the weight people carry. I help adults navigate anxiety, depression, loss, burnout, life transitions, and neurodivergence.
Some of my clients are first responders, military members, and high-performing professionals, but you do not need a high-intensity story to belong here.
I offer trauma-informed, relational therapy grounded in trust, safety, and honest connection. My background as a flight medic, deputy sheriff, and firefighter gives me firsthand insight into high-stress environments, trauma, and the weight people carry. I help adults navigate anxiety, depression, loss, burnout, life transitions, and neurodivergence.
(530) 607-6977 View (530) 607-6977
Photo of Brie Pierquet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-T
Brie Pierquet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-T
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
Are you a first responder (law enforcement , fire, EMS, dispatch)?
I understand that the needs of first responders require a culturally competent therapist. I have over 100 hours of specific training in responder culture and mental health in addition to over 10 years of experience in trauma and grief. I am trained in EMDR and CBT. I am here to help you help yourself and help others.
Are you a first responder (law enforcement , fire, EMS, dispatch)?
I understand that the needs of first responders require a culturally competent therapist. I have over 100 hours of specific training in responder culture and mental health in addition to over 10 years of experience in trauma and grief. I am trained in EMDR and CBT. I am here to help you help yourself and help others.
(415) 792-1818 View (415) 792-1818
Photo of Lisa Reidsema, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Lisa Reidsema
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I work primarily with adults and young adults suffering with trauma, using EMDR alongside CBT and solution-focused and person-centered approaches that support real change. Something uncomfortable brought you here. You may have tried to move forward and found that something still lingers. You understand what’s going on, but it hasn’t shifted in a meaningful way. My clients come ready to do real work and to find relief. I meet each person as a whole person, not as a diagnosis or as a presenting problem. Our focus is on what hasn’t moved and why, so you’re not just managing symptoms but creating genuine, lasting movement forward.
I work primarily with adults and young adults suffering with trauma, using EMDR alongside CBT and solution-focused and person-centered approaches that support real change. Something uncomfortable brought you here. You may have tried to move forward and found that something still lingers. You understand what’s going on, but it hasn’t shifted in a meaningful way. My clients come ready to do real work and to find relief. I meet each person as a whole person, not as a diagnosis or as a presenting problem. Our focus is on what hasn’t moved and why, so you’re not just managing symptoms but creating genuine, lasting movement forward.
(628) 600-2930 View (628) 600-2930
Photo of Jenn Basler, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jenn Basler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
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 specialize in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), an evidence-based approach designed to support those struggling with trauma-related challenges. I also work with individuals and their families who are experiencing a serious mental illness, either first onset or chronic conditions.
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 specialize in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), an evidence-based approach designed to support those struggling with trauma-related challenges. I also work with individuals and their families who are experiencing a serious mental illness, either first onset or chronic conditions.
(650) 955-0631 View (650) 955-0631
Photo of Corrie A. Ingram, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Corrie A. Ingram
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Ramon, CA 94583
My areas of experience include: adolescent issues, mood disorders, development of authentic self, relationship issues, grief/loss, identity, self worth, integration of faith/spirituality, life transitions, partners of first responders, long-term partnership and marital issues, and women's issues.
I am passionate about supporting others in their search for greater awareness, understanding, clarity, relief, and authenticity. This process often takes a safe space and intentional time as well as willingness and courage. I feel honored to be invited into people's unique, complicated, and often difficult stories and then to journey alongside in a supportive, empathic and caring way.
My areas of experience include: adolescent issues, mood disorders, development of authentic self, relationship issues, grief/loss, identity, self worth, integration of faith/spirituality, life transitions, partners of first responders, long-term partnership and marital issues, and women's issues.
I am passionate about supporting others in their search for greater awareness, understanding, clarity, relief, and authenticity. This process often takes a safe space and intentional time as well as willingness and courage. I feel honored to be invited into people's unique, complicated, and often difficult stories and then to journey alongside in a supportive, empathic and caring way.
(925) 308-5623 View (925) 308-5623
Photo of Alexa Grossman - Alexa Grossman | EMDR and KAP Therapist (CA/IN/OH), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC, ERPSCC
Alexa Grossman | EMDR and KAP Therapist (CA/IN/OH)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC, ERPSCC
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
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
Photo of Dr. Ariel Place - Dr. Ariel Place - Neurocatalyst Center, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, LPCC, CEO
Dr. Ariel Place - Neurocatalyst Center
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, LPCC, CEO
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with veterans, first responders, and individuals navigating high-stress, high-stakes circumstances, including trauma exposure, work-related injury, and court involvement.
I specialize in trauma-focused care using EMDR, parts work, and evidence-based, trauma-informed strategies to help clients process difficult experiences and restore trust in themselves. Treatment is structured, intentional, and focused on helping clients address internal conflict, regulate stress responses, and move forward with greater clarity and stability
I work with veterans, first responders, and individuals navigating high-stress, high-stakes circumstances, including trauma exposure, work-related injury, and court involvement.
I specialize in trauma-focused care using EMDR, parts work, and evidence-based, trauma-informed strategies to help clients process difficult experiences and restore trust in themselves. Treatment is structured, intentional, and focused on helping clients address internal conflict, regulate stress responses, and move forward with greater clarity and stability
(916) 237-9130 View (916) 237-9130
Photo of Jessica Ryan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jessica Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
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.
(650) 675-2513 View (650) 675-2513
Photo of Carrie Likeness, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Carrie Likeness
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103
My practice supports the first responder, public safety, and public-facing community—including EMS, Fire, Law Enforcement, Corrections, Dispatch, and Judicial professionals—alongside those in Healthcare, Mental Health, and Education.
I specialize in trauma-informed care for those in high-intensity community-facing roles. I recognize the heavy caregiving burden and emotional labor involved in your work. Utilizing EMDR and evidence-based modalities, we process burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma. My goal is to help you move past survival mode and reclaim your personal life.
My practice supports the first responder, public safety, and public-facing community—including EMS, Fire, Law Enforcement, Corrections, Dispatch, and Judicial professionals—alongside those in Healthcare, Mental Health, and Education.
I specialize in trauma-informed care for those in high-intensity community-facing roles. I recognize the heavy caregiving burden and emotional labor involved in your work. Utilizing EMDR and evidence-based modalities, we process burnout, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma. My goal is to help you move past survival mode and reclaim your personal life.
View
Photo of Nicholas Ward, Psychologist, PsyD
Nicholas Ward
Psychologist, PsyD
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
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.
(925) 892-3709 View (925) 892-3709
Photo of Erica Tompkins, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
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
Photo of Antonio Fidler-Woodard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Antonio Fidler-Woodard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(424) 419-1135 View (424) 419-1135
Photo of Ricka L. White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BIP, CEAT
Ricka L. White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BIP, CEAT
Online Only
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.
(510) 221-6652 View (510) 221-6652
Photo of Caitlin Dyer - Infertility and First Responders Therapy, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Infertility and First Responders Therapy
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
4 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Or maybe you're a (or the partner of a) firefighter, officer, or paramedic — and you know exactly what it feels like to smile through the fear.
I have a passion for infertility counseling, couples therapy, and mental health support for first responder families. Whether you're navigating pregnancy loss, relationship strain, anxiety, or trauma, I use client-centered, evidence-based approaches to help you rebuild connection and find steadier ground. I work with individual women and couples.
Or maybe you're a (or the partner of a) firefighter, officer, or paramedic — and you know exactly what it feels like to smile through the fear.
I have a passion for infertility counseling, couples therapy, and mental health support for first responder families. Whether you're navigating pregnancy loss, relationship strain, anxiety, or trauma, I use client-centered, evidence-based approaches to help you rebuild connection and find steadier ground. I work with individual women and couples.
(925) 290-6941 View (925) 290-6941

See more therapy options for Piedmont

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.