First Responders Therapists in Vista, CA

Photo of Alexis Roncevich, Psychologist, PsyD
Alexis Roncevich
Psychologist, PsyD
Vista, CA 92081
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.
View
Photo of Ida Babakhanyan - Aether Brain Health, Psychologist, PhD
Aether Brain Health
Psychologist, PhD
Vista, CA 92081
Aether Brain Health is led by a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist with specialized experience working with military populations, traumatic brain injury, and complex neurological presentations.
Many individuals seek support when they notice changes in memory, attention, concentration, mood, or overall cognitive functioning. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist providing neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive assessment, and therapy for individuals experiencing difficulties related to concussion, traumatic brain injury, stress, trauma, and complex neurological or psychological symptoms. Through careful evaluation, we work to clarify how the brain and emotional health are interacting and identify practical strategies that support recovery, resilience, and long-term brain health.
Aether Brain Health is led by a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist with specialized experience working with military populations, traumatic brain injury, and complex neurological presentations.
Many individuals seek support when they notice changes in memory, attention, concentration, mood, or overall cognitive functioning. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist providing neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive assessment, and therapy for individuals experiencing difficulties related to concussion, traumatic brain injury, stress, trauma, and complex neurological or psychological symptoms. Through careful evaluation, we work to clarify how the brain and emotional health are interacting and identify practical strategies that support recovery, resilience, and long-term brain health.
(760) 359-9588 View (760) 359-9588
Photo of Emily Eyerly, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Emily Eyerly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
7 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
Easy self booking and instant insurance verification using my website care.headway.co/providers/emily-eyerly. Life can be challenging, and sometimes we all need support to navigate stress, relationships, or past experiences. You deserve a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. I’m a Licensed Therapist with 9 years of experience, and I believe therapy should be as unique as you are. Together, we’ll create a plan that respects your experiences, your beliefs, and your goals. If you’re ready to feel understood, empowered, and supported as you navigate life’s challenges, I’m prepared to walk alongside you.
Easy self booking and instant insurance verification using my website care.headway.co/providers/emily-eyerly. Life can be challenging, and sometimes we all need support to navigate stress, relationships, or past experiences. You deserve a space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. I’m a Licensed Therapist with 9 years of experience, and I believe therapy should be as unique as you are. Together, we’ll create a plan that respects your experiences, your beliefs, and your goals. If you’re ready to feel understood, empowered, and supported as you navigate life’s challenges, I’m prepared to walk alongside you.
(626) 699-9406 View (626) 699-9406
Photo of Christina Payton, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Christina Payton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Vista, CA 92081
Hi there, I'm Christina! I offer counseling to individuals, assisting in navigating difficult life events, relationship changes, mood-related disorders, and postpartum anxiety or depression. My background includes working with a diverse population who present with wide-ranging diagnoses and clinical complexities. I am dedicated to working with my clients on identifying and achieving their goals, whatever those may be!
Hi there, I'm Christina! I offer counseling to individuals, assisting in navigating difficult life events, relationship changes, mood-related disorders, and postpartum anxiety or depression. My background includes working with a diverse population who present with wide-ranging diagnoses and clinical complexities. I am dedicated to working with my clients on identifying and achieving their goals, whatever those may be!
(213) 855-3533 View (213) 855-3533
Photo of Kate Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kate Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Specializing in working with first responders I strive to create a supportive environment where clients can explore and address the complexities of their experiences.
As a dedicated and compassionate LMFT, my mission is to provide unwavering support to those who selflessly serve our communities as first responders and their families. In today's fast-paced and demanding world, these individuals face unique challenges that often go unnoticed.
Specializing in working with first responders I strive to create a supportive environment where clients can explore and address the complexities of their experiences.
As a dedicated and compassionate LMFT, my mission is to provide unwavering support to those who selflessly serve our communities as first responders and their families. In today's fast-paced and demanding world, these individuals face unique challenges that often go unnoticed.
(760) 463-0154 View (760) 463-0154
Photo of Dannie McCalman, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT, APCC
Dannie McCalman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT, APCC
Online Only
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, especially when life feels overwhelming, confusing, or lonely. You might be feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure how to navigate your emotions and relationships. I offer a warm, supportive, and judgment-free space where you can show up as your full self and start to better understand what’s happening inside you and around you. Whether you’re a teenager, college student, athlete, adult, part of a couple/relationship, or parent/caregiver, my goal is to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and in control of your emotions and your life.
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, especially when life feels overwhelming, confusing, or lonely. You might be feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure how to navigate your emotions and relationships. I offer a warm, supportive, and judgment-free space where you can show up as your full self and start to better understand what’s happening inside you and around you. Whether you’re a teenager, college student, athlete, adult, part of a couple/relationship, or parent/caregiver, my goal is to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and in control of your emotions and your life.
(323) 870-7117 View (323) 870-7117
Photo of Taryn Marmet, Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Taryn Marmet
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a military spouse, I understand the stress and hardships that come with military life.
You don't have to go through life challenges alone! My goal as your therapist would be to help guide you through life’s challenges while empowering you to find your inner resiliency. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, empathetic and validating experience to all of my clients. I provide individual therapy for preteens, teens and adults of all ages. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, mood disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, trauma, PTSD, self-esteem, codependency, relationship issues, adjustment issues, and life transitions.
As a military spouse, I understand the stress and hardships that come with military life.
You don't have to go through life challenges alone! My goal as your therapist would be to help guide you through life’s challenges while empowering you to find your inner resiliency. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, empathetic and validating experience to all of my clients. I provide individual therapy for preteens, teens and adults of all ages. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, mood disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, trauma, PTSD, self-esteem, codependency, relationship issues, adjustment issues, and life transitions.
(442) 435-0986 View (442) 435-0986
Photo of Hallie Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, RPT
Hallie Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, RPT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! I am Hallie. I specialize in children, more specifically play therapy, tweens and teens, adult and pediatric OCD/BFRBs, perinatal mental health, and trauma related disorders. I am a psychotherapist located in San Diego and Orange County, CA and offers virtual therapy in Minnesota, who brings 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. You came across my profile because either yourself or loved one is in need of help. Reaching out takes a significant amount of courage, and I am glad you did. I am here to offer my help and support.
Hello! I am Hallie. I specialize in children, more specifically play therapy, tweens and teens, adult and pediatric OCD/BFRBs, perinatal mental health, and trauma related disorders. I am a psychotherapist located in San Diego and Orange County, CA and offers virtual therapy in Minnesota, who brings 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. You came across my profile because either yourself or loved one is in need of help. Reaching out takes a significant amount of courage, and I am glad you did. I am here to offer my help and support.
(442) 200-2682 View (442) 200-2682
Photo of Marielle Beebe, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Marielle Beebe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Serves Area
Do you find yourself second-guessing yourself, stuck in worry, or wondering if you're ever good enough? Maybe you're navigating a major life transition—such as pregnancy, a career change, relationship challenges, graduation, or another significant shift—and feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of yourself. You want a space where you feel safe and supported, where you can process difficult emotions and better understand yourself and your relationships.
Do you find yourself second-guessing yourself, stuck in worry, or wondering if you're ever good enough? Maybe you're navigating a major life transition—such as pregnancy, a career change, relationship challenges, graduation, or another significant shift—and feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of yourself. You want a space where you feel safe and supported, where you can process difficult emotions and better understand yourself and your relationships.
(442) 327-2321 View (442) 327-2321
Photo of Virginia Wilcsek, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Virginia Wilcsek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with Military, First Responders, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, BPD, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery & Treating Adult Children of Emotional Immature Parents.
My practice focuses on diversity, compassion, & self-discovery. I’ve dedicated my sessions to creating a space of safety. I focus on Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Survivors, somatic reprocessing, ACEIPS, & Trauma informed care, I cater EMDR, DBT, CBT, IFS, and somatic work to create a holistic approach. There is no right or wrong, good or bad, in healing.
I work with Military, First Responders, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, BPD, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery & Treating Adult Children of Emotional Immature Parents.
My practice focuses on diversity, compassion, & self-discovery. I’ve dedicated my sessions to creating a space of safety. I focus on Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Survivors, somatic reprocessing, ACEIPS, & Trauma informed care, I cater EMDR, DBT, CBT, IFS, and somatic work to create a holistic approach. There is no right or wrong, good or bad, in healing.
(858) 289-0339 View (858) 289-0339

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Janelle Gallardo, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Janelle Gallardo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who provides individual therapy using an eclectic framework.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who provides individual therapy using an eclectic framework.
(951) 489-3903 View (951) 489-3903
Photo of Lindsay Kramer Damoose, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Lindsay Kramer Damoose
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
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.
(619) 329-9662 View (619) 329-9662
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 Vera Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Vera Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
I specialize in supporting first responders and their families, offering trauma-informed care that addresses chronic stress, compassion fatigue, and the impact of critical incidents.
I help individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, anxiety, burnout, addiction, and relationship challenges. I strive to help those looking to reconnect with themselves and the people they care about, regain balance, and move through life’s challenges with more clarity and ease. My therapy style is warm, straightforward, and conversational. If you’re used to holding everything together, this is your chance to set it down for an hour.
I specialize in supporting first responders and their families, offering trauma-informed care that addresses chronic stress, compassion fatigue, and the impact of critical incidents.
I help individuals, couples, and families navigate trauma, anxiety, burnout, addiction, and relationship challenges. I strive to help those looking to reconnect with themselves and the people they care about, regain balance, and move through life’s challenges with more clarity and ease. My therapy style is warm, straightforward, and conversational. If you’re used to holding everything together, this is your chance to set it down for an hour.
(949) 796-7934 View (949) 796-7934
Photo of John How - Dr. John How - Spravato, Ketamine Therapy & SGB, MD
John How, a board-certified emergency medicine physician and Medical Director of Stella Mental Health Irvine and San Diego (located in Encinitas).
At Stella Mental Health, we offer a holistic, multi-modality approach that combines traditional psychological treatments with innovative, effective treatments such as Spravato (esketamine), ketamine-assisted therapy, stellate ganglion blocks (SGB), medication management, integration and talk therapy.
John How, a board-certified emergency medicine physician and Medical Director of Stella Mental Health Irvine and San Diego (located in Encinitas).
At Stella Mental Health, we offer a holistic, multi-modality approach that combines traditional psychological treatments with innovative, effective treatments such as Spravato (esketamine), ketamine-assisted therapy, stellate ganglion blocks (SGB), medication management, integration and talk therapy.
(760) 389-9233 View (760) 389-9233
Photo of Carl H Gregory - Carl H Gregory Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Carl H Gregory Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
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.
(619) 458-3944 View (619) 458-3944
Photo of Dr. Vanessa Nash, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA
Dr. Vanessa Nash
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92591
I specialize in working with first responders, including law enforcement, fire personnel, EMS, as well as veterans and current military personnel.
I utilize a variety of interventions, such as reframing, visualizations/mindfulness, self-care, among others to address any issues. I find that being direct, and having a sense of humor can really help the process as well!
I specialize in working with first responders, including law enforcement, fire personnel, EMS, as well as veterans and current military personnel.
I utilize a variety of interventions, such as reframing, visualizations/mindfulness, self-care, among others to address any issues. I find that being direct, and having a sense of humor can really help the process as well!
(559) 380-2522 View (559) 380-2522
Photo of Kami Guevara, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Kami Guevara
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
8 Endorsed
Online Only
You may be high-functioning and capable on the outside, yet feel stuck in emotional patterns that don’t shift through insight alone. Many of my clients have already tried talk therapy or personal growth work and still feel anxious, disconnected, or on edge beneath the surface. Through EMDR and trauma-informed therapy, we work at the nervous system level to address the roots of these patterns, creating meaningful relief, emotional steadiness, and a life that feels more grounded and aligned.
You may be high-functioning and capable on the outside, yet feel stuck in emotional patterns that don’t shift through insight alone. Many of my clients have already tried talk therapy or personal growth work and still feel anxious, disconnected, or on edge beneath the surface. Through EMDR and trauma-informed therapy, we work at the nervous system level to address the roots of these patterns, creating meaningful relief, emotional steadiness, and a life that feels more grounded and aligned.
(760) 302-1871 View (760) 302-1871
Photo of Shoma Rao, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Shoma Rao
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(619) 486-5408 View (619) 486-5408
Photo of Jenée L Harris - Jenée Harris First Responder Mental Health, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IMFT
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.
(619) 949-3731 View (619) 949-3731

See more therapy options for Vista

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.