First Responders Therapists in San Diego, CA
I often work with first responders and military personnel who perform well under pressure but struggle with connection, stress, or repeating patterns.
I help individuals and couples break stuck patterns and improve connection. Using EMDR, CPT, PE, and Neuropsychotherapy, I target how the brain and nervous system drive behavior. My approach is direct, structured, and focused on real, lasting change.
I often work with first responders and military personnel who perform well under pressure but struggle with connection, stress, or repeating patterns.
I help individuals and couples break stuck patterns and improve connection. Using EMDR, CPT, PE, and Neuropsychotherapy, I target how the brain and nervous system drive behavior. My approach is direct, structured, and focused on real, lasting change.
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, substance use, military, LEOs, self-defeating behaviors, anger mastery, family of origin issues, marriage/couples counseling, emotional stability, family counseling, parenting, rebuilding healthy relationships and behaviors.
Hello. I am Dr. Alan Acre, clinical psychologist. I was the clinical director of a trauma clinic in San Diego for over four years. If you’re looking for a quality private counseling session with a provider that cares, then you’ve come to the right place. I like helping clients conquer difficulties by using evidenced based treatments that allow you to engage life with a peaceful mind, a healthy outlook, and joy. We'll learn how to stop white knuckling life's problems and proudly use effective techniques to engage our family, friends, and co-workers with. Call me for a free consult, or I can help match you with one of our therapists.
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, substance use, military, LEOs, self-defeating behaviors, anger mastery, family of origin issues, marriage/couples counseling, emotional stability, family counseling, parenting, rebuilding healthy relationships and behaviors.
Hello. I am Dr. Alan Acre, clinical psychologist. I was the clinical director of a trauma clinic in San Diego for over four years. If you’re looking for a quality private counseling session with a provider that cares, then you’ve come to the right place. I like helping clients conquer difficulties by using evidenced based treatments that allow you to engage life with a peaceful mind, a healthy outlook, and joy. We'll learn how to stop white knuckling life's problems and proudly use effective techniques to engage our family, friends, and co-workers with. Call me for a free consult, or I can help match you with one of our therapists.
I specialize in EMDR and Brainspotting for First Responders, Veterans, and survivors of trauma.
You aren’t looking for traditional talk therapy; you’re looking to resolve the physiological aftermath of high-stakes stress. Whether you are a First Responder, Veteran, or survivor of complex trauma, "white-knuckling" your way through the day isn't working. I specialize in high-acuity trauma recovery, moving beyond simple conversation into neurological resolution.
With 13+ years of experience, I use EMDR and Brainspotting to target distress where it lives: in the nervous system. My approach is direct, clinical, and built for those who have seen the unthinkable.
I specialize in EMDR and Brainspotting for First Responders, Veterans, and survivors of trauma.
You aren’t looking for traditional talk therapy; you’re looking to resolve the physiological aftermath of high-stakes stress. Whether you are a First Responder, Veteran, or survivor of complex trauma, "white-knuckling" your way through the day isn't working. I specialize in high-acuity trauma recovery, moving beyond simple conversation into neurological resolution.
With 13+ years of experience, I use EMDR and Brainspotting to target distress where it lives: in the nervous system. My approach is direct, clinical, and built for those who have seen the unthinkable.
I provide a direct, supportive, and empowering space where clients can show up authentically and feel genuinely understood. My approach is grounded in collaboration. I work alongside you to identify patterns, build insight, and develop practical tools that support lasting change. I integrate evidence-based practices with a strong emphasis on psychoeducation, helping you better understand yourself and your experiences. I will challenge you while also supporting you. My goal is to help you feel more confident, regulated, and in control of your life. Lasting change starts here, and we will build it together with clarity and intention.
I provide a direct, supportive, and empowering space where clients can show up authentically and feel genuinely understood. My approach is grounded in collaboration. I work alongside you to identify patterns, build insight, and develop practical tools that support lasting change. I integrate evidence-based practices with a strong emphasis on psychoeducation, helping you better understand yourself and your experiences. I will challenge you while also supporting you. My goal is to help you feel more confident, regulated, and in control of your life. Lasting change starts here, and we will build it together with clarity and intention.
I am an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with over 22 years of experience as a Firefighter/ Paramedic.
I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders (dual diagnosis). As a counselor, I bring a compassionate and empathetic perspective to my work, having walked the path of recovery myself.
I am an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with over 22 years of experience as a Firefighter/ Paramedic.
I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders (dual diagnosis). As a counselor, I bring a compassionate and empathetic perspective to my work, having walked the path of recovery myself.
Jenée Harris First Responder Mental Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IMFT
Online Only
I work with First responders, and non- first responders via Telehealth in California and Ohio.
I am a trauma informed, EMDR Certified Therapist. I specialized in working with first responders, military personnel, and their families. Additionally, I specialize in adverse/religious traumas. I also work with non- first responders/ military personnel to address trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, and co-occurring disorders.
I work with First responders, and non- first responders via Telehealth in California and Ohio.
I am a trauma informed, EMDR Certified Therapist. I specialized in working with first responders, military personnel, and their families. Additionally, I specialize in adverse/religious traumas. I also work with non- first responders/ military personnel to address trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, and co-occurring disorders.
Our expertise includes anxiety, trauma, personality dynamics, and high-performance stress, with specialized experience working with first responders and those who give life their all.
Golden Hour Psychology. You’ve carried it long enough—the anxiety that won’t quiet, the trauma that lingers, the patterns that keep repeating. Maybe you feel stuck, unsure why things aren’t changing, or exhausted from holding it all together. You want relief, but more than that, you want clarity. You’re ready to understand, heal, and move forward. We can help.
Our expertise includes anxiety, trauma, personality dynamics, and high-performance stress, with specialized experience working with first responders and those who give life their all.
Golden Hour Psychology. You’ve carried it long enough—the anxiety that won’t quiet, the trauma that lingers, the patterns that keep repeating. Maybe you feel stuck, unsure why things aren’t changing, or exhausted from holding it all together. You want relief, but more than that, you want clarity. You’re ready to understand, heal, and move forward. We can help.
Moving? Breaking up? A new job? Transitions are complex and sometimes a minefield to navigate emotionally. It can be hard to understand when everything else seems to align but something in your heart feels off. Perhaps you are in a midst of a change you never imagined would happen to you like a divorce or termination from a well loved job. Don't get stuck there! Let us work together to create space for the kind of life you have been dreaming about.
Moving? Breaking up? A new job? Transitions are complex and sometimes a minefield to navigate emotionally. It can be hard to understand when everything else seems to align but something in your heart feels off. Perhaps you are in a midst of a change you never imagined would happen to you like a divorce or termination from a well loved job. Don't get stuck there! Let us work together to create space for the kind of life you have been dreaming about.
I work with athletes, first responders and adults struggling with performance anxiety and self-doubt.
I specialize in helping adults manage anxiety, performance pressure, burnout and unresolved past trauma. Client's that I work with often feel intense physical symptoms of anxiety, racing thoughts that feel out of control, and are usually "pushing through" the symptoms until the event is over- only for it to happen all over agin when the next challenge arises. I work with clients through somatic exercises, cognitive work and deeper brain work through eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to resolve the core conflicts of distress and reduce daily symptoms.
I work with athletes, first responders and adults struggling with performance anxiety and self-doubt.
I specialize in helping adults manage anxiety, performance pressure, burnout and unresolved past trauma. Client's that I work with often feel intense physical symptoms of anxiety, racing thoughts that feel out of control, and are usually "pushing through" the symptoms until the event is over- only for it to happen all over agin when the next challenge arises. I work with clients through somatic exercises, cognitive work and deeper brain work through eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to resolve the core conflicts of distress and reduce daily symptoms.
I specialize in treating substance use disorders, trauma—including work with frontline professionals—mood and anxiety disorders, grief, and relationship/family issues. I use EMDR, the Gottman Method, DBT, ACT, and other evidence‑based approaches. I have worked with adults and adolescents across multiple treatment settings and in private practice. For more than a decade, I have worked within the Sharp HealthCare system, currently supporting the wellness of frontline hospital staff and providing trauma‑informed care for individuals with complex mental health and substance‑related concerns.
I specialize in treating substance use disorders, trauma—including work with frontline professionals—mood and anxiety disorders, grief, and relationship/family issues. I use EMDR, the Gottman Method, DBT, ACT, and other evidence‑based approaches. I have worked with adults and adolescents across multiple treatment settings and in private practice. For more than a decade, I have worked within the Sharp HealthCare system, currently supporting the wellness of frontline hospital staff and providing trauma‑informed care for individuals with complex mental health and substance‑related concerns.
The most powerful aspect of therapy is the relationship between you and your therapist, which provides a foundation of trust and unconditional acceptance, so that through your therapeutic journey, you have an opportunity to experience wholeness and healing to live a flourishing life. Having worked in a school system for 17 years, I have seen first hand the effect of toxic stress, pain, loneliness, hurt, disappointment, and trauma on the lives of teenagers and adults. I am passionate about guiding both teens and adults on their journey toward healing, providing tools to experience connection, restoration, and wholeness.
The most powerful aspect of therapy is the relationship between you and your therapist, which provides a foundation of trust and unconditional acceptance, so that through your therapeutic journey, you have an opportunity to experience wholeness and healing to live a flourishing life. Having worked in a school system for 17 years, I have seen first hand the effect of toxic stress, pain, loneliness, hurt, disappointment, and trauma on the lives of teenagers and adults. I am passionate about guiding both teens and adults on their journey toward healing, providing tools to experience connection, restoration, and wholeness.
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.
My passion lies in supporting first responders, veterans, military personnel, and their families, but my experience extends to working with individuals from all backgrounds, including civilians.
Using a trauma-informed, integrative approach, I tailor my therapy to your needs, incorporating evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help you heal and regain control over your life.
My passion lies in supporting first responders, veterans, military personnel, and their families, but my experience extends to working with individuals from all backgrounds, including civilians.
Using a trauma-informed, integrative approach, I tailor my therapy to your needs, incorporating evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help you heal and regain control over your life.
My experience working with first responders and veterans has allowed me to become well-versed in treating complex trauma.
I am passionate about what I do because I have been in your shoes! Going to therapy and talking to someone about our issues can be scary, and I am here to tell you that it does not have to be. In my time of being a therapist, I have found that many people struggle with a mental health issue and may not even know it. My goal through therapy is not to provide you with the answers, but to help you navigate them yourself. Throughout this process, we can get you to a place of self-compassion, self-love and gaining empowerment.
My experience working with first responders and veterans has allowed me to become well-versed in treating complex trauma.
I am passionate about what I do because I have been in your shoes! Going to therapy and talking to someone about our issues can be scary, and I am here to tell you that it does not have to be. In my time of being a therapist, I have found that many people struggle with a mental health issue and may not even know it. My goal through therapy is not to provide you with the answers, but to help you navigate them yourself. Throughout this process, we can get you to a place of self-compassion, self-love and gaining empowerment.
I primarily work with first responders, active-duty military personnel, and individuals with prior military service.
My clinical experience includes providing trauma-focused treatment for first responders in intensive outpatient settings and working with veterans within the VHA. This work has given me insight into the demands of careers that require performing under pressure, responding to critical incidents, and regularly placing the needs of others before their own.
I primarily work with first responders, active-duty military personnel, and individuals with prior military service.
My clinical experience includes providing trauma-focused treatment for first responders in intensive outpatient settings and working with veterans within the VHA. This work has given me insight into the demands of careers that require performing under pressure, responding to critical incidents, and regularly placing the needs of others before their own.
Nicole also specializes in law enforcement ( first responders), who are ready to address the unique challenges and impact the responder profession has had on their lives and relationships.
Nicole believes her role is to create a safe, supportive environment while maintaining a balance of empathy, compassion, and kindness. She understands that seeking help can be very difficult and she does not take that lightly. Nicole listens closely, challenges clients to stay true to the process, and ensures they are actively engaged in their own healing.
Nicole also specializes in law enforcement ( first responders), who are ready to address the unique challenges and impact the responder profession has had on their lives and relationships.
Nicole believes her role is to create a safe, supportive environment while maintaining a balance of empathy, compassion, and kindness. She understands that seeking help can be very difficult and she does not take that lightly. Nicole listens closely, challenges clients to stay true to the process, and ensures they are actively engaged in their own healing.
I have experience supporting first responders as they navigate trauma, stress, and moral injury, and I also help clients explore and heal generational patterns—the inherited beliefs, roles, and emotional burdens that often shape how we relate to ourselves and others.
My approach is person-centered and deeply rooted in the belief that healing begins within a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. I draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS) and other evidence-based practices to help you explore and understand the different parts of yourself—especially those shaped by pain, protection, or survival.
I have experience supporting first responders as they navigate trauma, stress, and moral injury, and I also help clients explore and heal generational patterns—the inherited beliefs, roles, and emotional burdens that often shape how we relate to ourselves and others.
My approach is person-centered and deeply rooted in the belief that healing begins within a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. I draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS) and other evidence-based practices to help you explore and understand the different parts of yourself—especially those shaped by pain, protection, or survival.
I work with a diverse range of clients, including those in high-pressure roles such as first responders, veterans, and athletes, as well as individuals facing everyday stress, life transitions, and emotional challenges.
My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and tailored to you. I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and psychodynamic therapy, and I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy to help you process experiences, build insight, and develop healthier coping tools. We focus on feeling grounded and connected to yourself.
I work with a diverse range of clients, including those in high-pressure roles such as first responders, veterans, and athletes, as well as individuals facing everyday stress, life transitions, and emotional challenges.
My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and tailored to you. I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and psychodynamic therapy, and I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy to help you process experiences, build insight, and develop healthier coping tools. We focus on feeling grounded and connected to yourself.
Dr. Ariel
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, LPCC, CEO
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I work with first responders, veterans, and their families, as well as others navigating high-stress, high-stakes circumstances.
My approach is structured, practical, and tailored to real life. I use EMDR, parts work, and trauma-informed strategies to identify what is getting in the way, process difficult experiences, and build healthier ways of responding. The goal is not simply to talk about symptoms, but to help you function and feel better in the life you actually live.
I work with first responders, veterans, and their families, as well as others navigating high-stress, high-stakes circumstances.
My approach is structured, practical, and tailored to real life. I use EMDR, parts work, and trauma-informed strategies to identify what is getting in the way, process difficult experiences, and build healthier ways of responding. The goal is not simply to talk about symptoms, but to help you function and feel better in the life you actually live.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing trauma-informed, holistic care for individuals seeking meaningful change. I am licensed in California and Wyoming.
I view therapy as a bridge — helping you move from the past to your desired future.
Using evidence-based approaches, I help you uncover and release patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that no longer serve you. Instead of changing these patterns through force, we clear away the distortions to reveal the clarity underneath.
My goal is to walk alongside you on this leg of your healing journey, as you align your mind, body, spirit and actions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing trauma-informed, holistic care for individuals seeking meaningful change. I am licensed in California and Wyoming.
I view therapy as a bridge — helping you move from the past to your desired future.
Using evidence-based approaches, I help you uncover and release patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that no longer serve you. Instead of changing these patterns through force, we clear away the distortions to reveal the clarity underneath.
My goal is to walk alongside you on this leg of your healing journey, as you align your mind, body, spirit and actions.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby First Responders Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Alpine
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- Del Mar
- El Cajon
- Encinitas
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- Santee
- Solana Beach
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.