First Responders Therapists in Pleasanton, CA
You don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. I help individuals and couples address anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship concerns, and life transitions using CBT, mindfulness, and insight-oriented therapy in a supportive, nonjudgmental space. Reach out when you’re ready to begin healing and growth.
You don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. I help individuals and couples address anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship concerns, and life transitions using CBT, mindfulness, and insight-oriented therapy in a supportive, nonjudgmental space. Reach out when you’re ready to begin healing and growth.
My experience in crisis work has allowed me unique insights to support first responders and their families.
Feeling stuck or like life has been heavier than usual lately? You don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m passionate about helping people move through difficult seasons in tangible, creative, and supportive ways.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience helping adults manage anxiety, depression, trauma-related concerns, and major life transitions. My approach is collaborative and empowering—I’ll help you better understand your experiences, build practical tools, and regain a sense of control and direction in your life.
My experience in crisis work has allowed me unique insights to support first responders and their families.
Feeling stuck or like life has been heavier than usual lately? You don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m passionate about helping people move through difficult seasons in tangible, creative, and supportive ways.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience helping adults manage anxiety, depression, trauma-related concerns, and major life transitions. My approach is collaborative and empowering—I’ll help you better understand your experiences, build practical tools, and regain a sense of control and direction in your life.
I am a psychologist who believes that meaningful change begins with understanding- of ourselves, our stories and the patterns that shape our lives. My approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic theory, solution-focused and mindfulness-based practices to help clients gain insight, develop new tools, and build a stronger sense of self-compassion.
I strive to meet clients where they are, creating a space that feels safe, collaborative, and real. Humor often finds its way into our work together- it can open doors, ease tension, and remind us that growth doesn't have to be all seriousness.
I am a psychologist who believes that meaningful change begins with understanding- of ourselves, our stories and the patterns that shape our lives. My approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic theory, solution-focused and mindfulness-based practices to help clients gain insight, develop new tools, and build a stronger sense of self-compassion.
I strive to meet clients where they are, creating a space that feels safe, collaborative, and real. Humor often finds its way into our work together- it can open doors, ease tension, and remind us that growth doesn't have to be all seriousness.
I enjoy working with people who wish to strengthen their connection with self and their interconnectivity with all living beings. Those that are curious about what gives life meaning, and what may have diminished their ability to live in alignment with that meaning. I appreciate working with the 'mystery' and medicine of body, soul, spirit and life, opening to the many seen and unseen forces inviting us all towards wholeness and harmony. I believe in diversity and inclusivity and that all processes, elements, and circumstances belong and are useful in ushering us towards the restoration of life in balance.
I enjoy working with people who wish to strengthen their connection with self and their interconnectivity with all living beings. Those that are curious about what gives life meaning, and what may have diminished their ability to live in alignment with that meaning. I appreciate working with the 'mystery' and medicine of body, soul, spirit and life, opening to the many seen and unseen forces inviting us all towards wholeness and harmony. I believe in diversity and inclusivity and that all processes, elements, and circumstances belong and are useful in ushering us towards the restoration of life in balance.
My name is Ashley, and I’m passionate about meeting clients where they are, assisting them in clearing what’s holding them back so they can envision their ideal outcomes and execute a plan to reach their desired destination.
My name is Ashley, and I’m passionate about meeting clients where they are, assisting them in clearing what’s holding them back so they can envision their ideal outcomes and execute a plan to reach their desired destination.
Everyone has the right to find peace with the world around them. Life is too short to let stress, anxiety, and depression rob us of the opportunity to experience the life we deserve. Each of these all too common sentiments leads to deep psychological and emotional pain. My sincere hope is that we can work together to uncover where these feelings come from and then begin an inspired journey to self-discovery and peace of mind.
Everyone has the right to find peace with the world around them. Life is too short to let stress, anxiety, and depression rob us of the opportunity to experience the life we deserve. Each of these all too common sentiments leads to deep psychological and emotional pain. My sincere hope is that we can work together to uncover where these feelings come from and then begin an inspired journey to self-discovery and peace of mind.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and owner of Merit Psychology Group, A Professional Psychology Corporation. I conduct psychological, psychoeducational and learning disorder assessments. More specifically I complete assessment of personality, ADHD, ASD, learning disorders, and cognitive issues in children, teens, and adults. I also provide second opinions related to previous diagnoses. And, I perform forensic assessment with medico-legal questions (ex. Competency, VAWA).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and owner of Merit Psychology Group, A Professional Psychology Corporation. I conduct psychological, psychoeducational and learning disorder assessments. More specifically I complete assessment of personality, ADHD, ASD, learning disorders, and cognitive issues in children, teens, and adults. I also provide second opinions related to previous diagnoses. And, I perform forensic assessment with medico-legal questions (ex. Competency, VAWA).
Often clients come into therapy with me when they are stuck in life, in a crisis, stressful time or in transition in a relationship or job or when emotions are just becoming too much to cope with. They want a change but are not always sure how to go about it or want tools to cope with the stress and changes. Taking the step to begin therapy is not easy for most people, but starting therapy often leads to a real opportunity to change, in ways that are not always expected. My style is warm, inviting and engaging, and I seek to connect to each person where they are at in life.
Often clients come into therapy with me when they are stuck in life, in a crisis, stressful time or in transition in a relationship or job or when emotions are just becoming too much to cope with. They want a change but are not always sure how to go about it or want tools to cope with the stress and changes. Taking the step to begin therapy is not easy for most people, but starting therapy often leads to a real opportunity to change, in ways that are not always expected. My style is warm, inviting and engaging, and I seek to connect to each person where they are at in life.
I have particular experience with veterans, first responders, and military families.
With a doctorate and 15+ years of experience, I draw on CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and insight-oriented approaches. I offer telehealth across California and am accepting new patients.
I have particular experience with veterans, first responders, and military families.
With a doctorate and 15+ years of experience, I draw on CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and insight-oriented approaches. I offer telehealth across California and am accepting new patients.
I primarily work with couples who feel stuck in painful patterns of conflict, distance, or disconnection. Many are navigating communication challenges, trust issues, life transitions, or the aftermath of betrayal. Together, we identify the cycles keeping them stuck, deepen understanding of one another's needs, and develop healthier ways of communicating, reconnecting, and strengthening their relationship.
I primarily work with couples who feel stuck in painful patterns of conflict, distance, or disconnection. Many are navigating communication challenges, trust issues, life transitions, or the aftermath of betrayal. Together, we identify the cycles keeping them stuck, deepen understanding of one another's needs, and develop healthier ways of communicating, reconnecting, and strengthening their relationship.
I offer therapy sessions via in-person and online video for adolescents, adults, and first responders throughout California.
Hello, I’m Jenna, and I'm a licensed psychotherapist in the Bay Area Peninsula with over 10 years of experience. I treat trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and chronic pain in adolescents and adults. My goal is to equip you with effective strategies that go beyond talk therapy; To empower you with tools to help you figure out and heal what might be keeping you stuck or simply cycling through the same behaviors, relationships, and negative thought patterns that are preventing you from moving forward. I'm here to help you navigate through life’s hard spaces and hits, find your peace and content, and create a life worth living.
I offer therapy sessions via in-person and online video for adolescents, adults, and first responders throughout California.
Hello, I’m Jenna, and I'm a licensed psychotherapist in the Bay Area Peninsula with over 10 years of experience. I treat trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and chronic pain in adolescents and adults. My goal is to equip you with effective strategies that go beyond talk therapy; To empower you with tools to help you figure out and heal what might be keeping you stuck or simply cycling through the same behaviors, relationships, and negative thought patterns that are preventing you from moving forward. I'm here to help you navigate through life’s hard spaces and hits, find your peace and content, and create a life worth living.
I have significant experience working working with first responders, the spouses of first responders, survivors of domestic abuse, survivors of sexual assault, and individuals who have experienced incarceration.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, high stress working and/or home lives, life transitions, and building understanding and empathy. Through strength based and trauma informed approaches, I work with each client to see what unique treatment plan works best for them. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, and the Gottman Method for targeted and efficient relief.
I have significant experience working working with first responders, the spouses of first responders, survivors of domestic abuse, survivors of sexual assault, and individuals who have experienced incarceration.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, high stress working and/or home lives, life transitions, and building understanding and empathy. Through strength based and trauma informed approaches, I work with each client to see what unique treatment plan works best for them. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, and the Gottman Method for targeted and efficient relief.
I'm a licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life transitions, manage anxiety, and build healthier relationships. My practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches like CBT and mindfulness, with a warm, collaborative style that empowers clients to reconnect with their values and goals. Whether you're feeling stuck or seeking growth, I provide a safe space to explore and heal.
I'm a licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life transitions, manage anxiety, and build healthier relationships. My practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches like CBT and mindfulness, with a warm, collaborative style that empowers clients to reconnect with their values and goals. Whether you're feeling stuck or seeking growth, I provide a safe space to explore and heal.
You're lost in the weeds of to-do's, obligations, & responsibilities; your mind a cacophony of distractions clamoring for your attention. At some point, this life you built got so busy that you're no longer enjoying it. Instead, you're overwhelmed by the anxiety of it all; sure that something will go horribly wrong. You tell yourself that these worries aren't real, just scary stories you contemplate- your own "monster under the bed". So you push them to the back of your mind and slap a smile on your face, forging on. Unfortunately, until we open the door to face the boogeyman, that gnawing feeling of dread won't ever really go away.
You're lost in the weeds of to-do's, obligations, & responsibilities; your mind a cacophony of distractions clamoring for your attention. At some point, this life you built got so busy that you're no longer enjoying it. Instead, you're overwhelmed by the anxiety of it all; sure that something will go horribly wrong. You tell yourself that these worries aren't real, just scary stories you contemplate- your own "monster under the bed". So you push them to the back of your mind and slap a smile on your face, forging on. Unfortunately, until we open the door to face the boogeyman, that gnawing feeling of dread won't ever really go away.
The ebbs and flows of life can be hard to navigate at times. Seeking support is a scary and courageous first step. Are you emotionally overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling in your relationship? Is anxiety preventing you from pursuing the things that matter? Do you struggle with mixed emotions about your upbringing? As your therapist, I will listen and hold the space where you can be your authentic self. Together we will untangle and demystify all the feelings, emotions, and trauma you are experienced/ing. We will identify your strengths, resilience, passion, and goals to make positive meaningful change. We will figure it out together.
The ebbs and flows of life can be hard to navigate at times. Seeking support is a scary and courageous first step. Are you emotionally overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling in your relationship? Is anxiety preventing you from pursuing the things that matter? Do you struggle with mixed emotions about your upbringing? As your therapist, I will listen and hold the space where you can be your authentic self. Together we will untangle and demystify all the feelings, emotions, and trauma you are experienced/ing. We will identify your strengths, resilience, passion, and goals to make positive meaningful change. We will figure it out together.
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.
Linda J Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94588
Not accepting new clients
At times we can feel overwhelmed with fear and anxiety or stuck in life patterns that do not allow us to access the life we had hoped for. Part of the "stuckness" can come from past experiences and perspectives we learned from an early age. Part of it can come from current experiences that leave us feeling lost, afraid, or like we have no control.
At times we can feel overwhelmed with fear and anxiety or stuck in life patterns that do not allow us to access the life we had hoped for. Part of the "stuckness" can come from past experiences and perspectives we learned from an early age. Part of it can come from current experiences that leave us feeling lost, afraid, or like we have no control.
More Therapists Nearby
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.
I also have a special passion for helping couples rebuild after a betrayal and have extensive experience working w/ first responders.
As a trauma psychologist, I specialize in treating trauma across the lifespan by helping clients move from surviving to thriving. My work is grounded in evidence based practices, but just as importantly, in empathy, and genuine connection. I am comfortable working with complex challenges, by providing a steady, grounded presence even in the most intense circumstances. Therapy with me is both effective and human. My goal is to make clients feel understood while equipping them w/ tools to move forward independently and with confidence.
I also have a special passion for helping couples rebuild after a betrayal and have extensive experience working w/ first responders.
As a trauma psychologist, I specialize in treating trauma across the lifespan by helping clients move from surviving to thriving. My work is grounded in evidence based practices, but just as importantly, in empathy, and genuine connection. I am comfortable working with complex challenges, by providing a steady, grounded presence even in the most intense circumstances. Therapy with me is both effective and human. My goal is to make clients feel understood while equipping them w/ tools to move forward independently and with confidence.
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.
See more therapy options for Pleasanton
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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.