First Responders Therapists in Pleasant Hill, CA
EMDR • First Responders and Spouses (or Significant Others) Only • I Accept Insurance • If you're feeling the emotional weight of high-stakes work, trauma, or burnout—especially as a first responder or someone who loves one—please know you're not alone.
I have a deep passion for supporting first responders and their partners. Through my work with the First Responder Support Network and years of clinical experience, I’ve seen the toll trauma can take—but I’ve also witnessed the strength of recovery when it’s met with safety, compassion, and the right tools for healing.
EMDR • First Responders and Spouses (or Significant Others) Only • I Accept Insurance • If you're feeling the emotional weight of high-stakes work, trauma, or burnout—especially as a first responder or someone who loves one—please know you're not alone.
I have a deep passion for supporting first responders and their partners. Through my work with the First Responder Support Network and years of clinical experience, I’ve seen the toll trauma can take—but I’ve also witnessed the strength of recovery when it’s met with safety, compassion, and the right tools for healing.
I work with first responders, military veterans, men, young adults, teens, couples, and families who seek strength, clarity, and stability in the most important areas of life.
My approach is clinical, direct, and structured, grounded in evidence-based practice and shaped by principles that emphasize reason, virtue, and formation of character. I value accountability and steady progress. I help clients integrate courage with humility and strength with gratitude.
I work with first responders, military veterans, men, young adults, teens, couples, and families who seek strength, clarity, and stability in the most important areas of life.
My approach is clinical, direct, and structured, grounded in evidence-based practice and shaped by principles that emphasize reason, virtue, and formation of character. I value accountability and steady progress. I help clients integrate courage with humility and strength with gratitude.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Feeling like talking with someone to get some relief and support? You have taken an important first step in finding a therapist that's right for you. I work with children, adolescents, parents, and adults who are experiencing issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief and relationship struggles. I am here to help you face these challenges in a comfortable and nurturing way.
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Feeling like talking with someone to get some relief and support? You have taken an important first step in finding a therapist that's right for you. I work with children, adolescents, parents, and adults who are experiencing issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief and relationship struggles. I am here to help you face these challenges in a comfortable and nurturing way.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like life hasn’t turned out the way you thought it would? Maybe you’re in the middle of a big transition—becoming a parent, navigating a breakup, adjusting to a new role, or simply realizing that what used to work…doesn’t anymore. Change can stir up anxiety, self-doubt, and even grief for the versions of ourselves we’ve outgrown. You might find yourself questioning who you are or what comes next. These moments can feel isolating, but they’re also an invitation to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and begin again—with support along the way.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like life hasn’t turned out the way you thought it would? Maybe you’re in the middle of a big transition—becoming a parent, navigating a breakup, adjusting to a new role, or simply realizing that what used to work…doesn’t anymore. Change can stir up anxiety, self-doubt, and even grief for the versions of ourselves we’ve outgrown. You might find yourself questioning who you are or what comes next. These moments can feel isolating, but they’re also an invitation to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and begin again—with support along the way.
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.
Is a spouse or family member's substance abuse or mental health issues impacting your daily well being? Do you have questions concerning a family member's mental health treatment?
Are you frustrated and confused with the mental health system and wonder why it's so hard to get help for your loved ones?
Have you or your family members experienced a love one going through a mental health crisis?
Mental health issues don't just affect the person, they impact the entire family. I can help clear up the confusion surrounding the mental health system and offer support and counseling.
Is a spouse or family member's substance abuse or mental health issues impacting your daily well being? Do you have questions concerning a family member's mental health treatment?
Are you frustrated and confused with the mental health system and wonder why it's so hard to get help for your loved ones?
Have you or your family members experienced a love one going through a mental health crisis?
Mental health issues don't just affect the person, they impact the entire family. I can help clear up the confusion surrounding the mental health system and offer support and counseling.
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.
More Therapists Nearby
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.
It is difficult to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. It's even more difficult to find someone who has the experience to help you, once you find the courage to reach out. It is my honor to help my clients find peace and fulfillment in their careers, relationships, and overall life experiences.
It is difficult to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. It's even more difficult to find someone who has the experience to help you, once you find the courage to reach out. It is my honor to help my clients find peace and fulfillment in their careers, relationships, and overall life experiences.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sliding scale options for military and first responders and spouses.
There are experiences you don’t talk about—but they don’t stop showing up. If you’ve found your way here, you may already be carrying a lot. I understand the weight that comes from carrying those moments, especially for those who have spent years showing up for others in high-pressure roles. I create a grounded, direct, and supportive space where you don’t have to explain the job to be understood. My approach is centered on helping you slow things down, make sense of what’s been building, and begin moving forward with clarity, steadiness, and a renewed sense of control.
Sliding scale options for military and first responders and spouses.
There are experiences you don’t talk about—but they don’t stop showing up. If you’ve found your way here, you may already be carrying a lot. I understand the weight that comes from carrying those moments, especially for those who have spent years showing up for others in high-pressure roles. I create a grounded, direct, and supportive space where you don’t have to explain the job to be understood. My approach is centered on helping you slow things down, make sense of what’s been building, and begin moving forward with clarity, steadiness, and a renewed sense of control.
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 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.
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.
This includes first responders and those in EMS, Fire, Law Enforcement, Corrections, Dispatch, Judicial settings, Healthcare, Mental Health, and Education.
I specialize in trauma, operational stress, anxiety, and life transitions. Drawing from EMDR, ACT, IFS and other evidence-based approaches, I tailor therapy to your unique needs. My dual MA, in Marriage and Family Therapy and Trauma & Related Conflict, combined with lived experience, inform a compassionate and culturally responsive approach to healing.
This includes first responders and those in EMS, Fire, Law Enforcement, Corrections, Dispatch, Judicial settings, Healthcare, Mental Health, and Education.
I specialize in trauma, operational stress, anxiety, and life transitions. Drawing from EMDR, ACT, IFS and other evidence-based approaches, I tailor therapy to your unique needs. My dual MA, in Marriage and Family Therapy and Trauma & Related Conflict, combined with lived experience, inform a compassionate and culturally responsive approach to healing.
Dr. Ariel Place - Neurocatalyst
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
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.
See more therapy options for Pleasant Hill
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.