First Responders Therapists in Polk County, FL
Zoe Vizcarrondo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMin, MS, (MHC), CPM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome. I’m so glad you’ve taken the first step toward healing and self-discovery. My approach to therapy is deeply informed by my 16 years as an active law enforcement officer and my Master of Ministry (M.Min.). Through both of these experiences, I have learned how trauma, stress, and life transitions can shake our sense of self and leave us questioning our purpose. I know firsthand how challenging it can be to navigate difficult emotions, whether from the pressures of a high-stress career or a personal crisis.
Welcome. I’m so glad you’ve taken the first step toward healing and self-discovery. My approach to therapy is deeply informed by my 16 years as an active law enforcement officer and my Master of Ministry (M.Min.). Through both of these experiences, I have learned how trauma, stress, and life transitions can shake our sense of self and leave us questioning our purpose. I know firsthand how challenging it can be to navigate difficult emotions, whether from the pressures of a high-stress career or a personal crisis.
Power Within - Cheryl Cyr
MA, NBCC, CMHIMP, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Do you ever feel like you're completely fine one minute and ready to completely lose your shit the next? Are you the person who is always giving and giving and for some reason when you need something you find yourself completely alone, wondering what's wrong with you. Why don't people love you, how did you get to be this person that exists and is unlovable. You're constantly trying and you're about done with giving all of you to people who don't appreciate you but you feel guilty for even thinking that. This is the entanglement we tend to find ourselves in when we come from a place where we suffered alone in our bedrooms.
Do you ever feel like you're completely fine one minute and ready to completely lose your shit the next? Are you the person who is always giving and giving and for some reason when you need something you find yourself completely alone, wondering what's wrong with you. Why don't people love you, how did you get to be this person that exists and is unlovable. You're constantly trying and you're about done with giving all of you to people who don't appreciate you but you feel guilty for even thinking that. This is the entanglement we tend to find ourselves in when we come from a place where we suffered alone in our bedrooms.
Hi there! Are past traumatic experiences impacting your life in negative ways and you have been avoiding talking to someone for fear it will be overwhelming? I understand. I have over 25 years in many different mental health and health settings helping clients overcome the ongoing effects of trauma. Or maybe you have tried to reach out for help before - but thinking about letting go of the ways you've learned to adapt and cope through the trauma and its after effects is a scary prospect! I get it, you want to feel better and to be healthier - mentally, physically and emotionally. But where can you safely turn for help?
Hi there! Are past traumatic experiences impacting your life in negative ways and you have been avoiding talking to someone for fear it will be overwhelming? I understand. I have over 25 years in many different mental health and health settings helping clients overcome the ongoing effects of trauma. Or maybe you have tried to reach out for help before - but thinking about letting go of the ways you've learned to adapt and cope through the trauma and its after effects is a scary prospect! I get it, you want to feel better and to be healthier - mentally, physically and emotionally. But where can you safely turn for help?
Hi there and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker focused on supporting you in your journey whether it be a mental health diagnosis or a recent life event that you may be struggling to overcome. Gone are the days where you may be feeling alone or invalidated. Let us work together to discover your therapeutic goals and the best way to achieve them!
Hi there and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker focused on supporting you in your journey whether it be a mental health diagnosis or a recent life event that you may be struggling to overcome. Gone are the days where you may be feeling alone or invalidated. Let us work together to discover your therapeutic goals and the best way to achieve them!
Andi Griffith
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, RI MFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33803
Tired of feeling stuck or repeating the same patterns without understanding why you can’t seem to break free no matter how hard you try? Sometimes we don't know how to move past or process the negative things in life on our own. Being able to talk to someone from an outside perspective, allows us to get curious about our behaviors and thinking patterns which helps us unlock the answers we have been seeking. Seeking help in these situations doesn't mean you are broken or weak, but rather human. It takes courage and strength to ask for help. Be proud of yourself.
Tired of feeling stuck or repeating the same patterns without understanding why you can’t seem to break free no matter how hard you try? Sometimes we don't know how to move past or process the negative things in life on our own. Being able to talk to someone from an outside perspective, allows us to get curious about our behaviors and thinking patterns which helps us unlock the answers we have been seeking. Seeking help in these situations doesn't mean you are broken or weak, but rather human. It takes courage and strength to ask for help. Be proud of yourself.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or major life changes? Maybe you're experiencing a lack of healthy boundaries in relationships or aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs, I am an experienced licensed mental health counselor who works with those struggling with relationship issues, grief, trauma, mood disorders, boundaries, anxiety, depression, and daily life struggles. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery. Transformation and healing are obtained by developing a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and response
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or major life changes? Maybe you're experiencing a lack of healthy boundaries in relationships or aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs, I am an experienced licensed mental health counselor who works with those struggling with relationship issues, grief, trauma, mood disorders, boundaries, anxiety, depression, and daily life struggles. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery. Transformation and healing are obtained by developing a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and response
I know how uncomfortable and nerve-wracking it can be to start therapy. I hope that I can make your experience as comfortable as possible. I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and grief. I also have experience working with the First Responder community. I believe having the “right” therapist can be life changing. I would describe my style as warm, genuine, and non-judgmental. If you are interested in starting counseling, please contact me via email or phone. I would be honored to work alongside you on your healing journey.
I know how uncomfortable and nerve-wracking it can be to start therapy. I hope that I can make your experience as comfortable as possible. I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and grief. I also have experience working with the First Responder community. I believe having the “right” therapist can be life changing. I would describe my style as warm, genuine, and non-judgmental. If you are interested in starting counseling, please contact me via email or phone. I would be honored to work alongside you on your healing journey.
Hello and welcome! Congratulations, you’ve made the first step. Let me help you follow through. In working with me, you will be provided with an authentic, safe, and comfortable environment where you are free to be yourself while we explore what led you here.
Hello and welcome! Congratulations, you’ve made the first step. Let me help you follow through. In working with me, you will be provided with an authentic, safe, and comfortable environment where you are free to be yourself while we explore what led you here.
Megan Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakeland, FL 33803
Not accepting new clients
Hello and welcome! My name is Megan Smith, I am a therapist specialized in treating trauma, complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and emotional dysregulation. Clients typically come to me with concerns such as, “I feel stuck and can’t get out of this cycle”, “I always seem to be in survival mode”, “I have no idea where to even start”, and more. Many issues such as traumatic or negative life event or hardships can leave clients struggling with self-doubt, low self-esteem, feeling unsafe, difficulty connecting with others, cycles of negative emotional and behavioral patterns, and relationship problems.
Hello and welcome! My name is Megan Smith, I am a therapist specialized in treating trauma, complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and emotional dysregulation. Clients typically come to me with concerns such as, “I feel stuck and can’t get out of this cycle”, “I always seem to be in survival mode”, “I have no idea where to even start”, and more. Many issues such as traumatic or negative life event or hardships can leave clients struggling with self-doubt, low self-esteem, feeling unsafe, difficulty connecting with others, cycles of negative emotional and behavioral patterns, and relationship problems.
Online Therapists
Jennifer Daugherty
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, EMDR
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33759
We are in-network for most private insurances, Medicare, Medicaid (Aetna Better Health, Community Care Plan, Molina, Prestige, Simply Healthcare, Sunshine Health, UnitedHealthcare), Military (TriCare, VA Community Care, CHAMPVA, Humana Military), and private self-pay.
Now Accepting New Clients! Life can be hard! Jobs, kids, bills, relationships can become overwhelming. When you add additional life stressors it can feel as though it's unmanageable. As a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, my role is to come alongside you and help you learn to build resilience, learn new, healthier coping skills and make meaningful changes in your thought processes which can improve the quality of your life. I have experience helping clients learn to manage stress, deal with childhood and adult trauma and handle anxiety and depression.
We are in-network for most private insurances, Medicare, Medicaid (Aetna Better Health, Community Care Plan, Molina, Prestige, Simply Healthcare, Sunshine Health, UnitedHealthcare), Military (TriCare, VA Community Care, CHAMPVA, Humana Military), and private self-pay.
Now Accepting New Clients! Life can be hard! Jobs, kids, bills, relationships can become overwhelming. When you add additional life stressors it can feel as though it's unmanageable. As a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, my role is to come alongside you and help you learn to build resilience, learn new, healthier coping skills and make meaningful changes in your thought processes which can improve the quality of your life. I have experience helping clients learn to manage stress, deal with childhood and adult trauma and handle anxiety and depression.
No Nonsense Christian Counseling, Dr Dave Jones
Pastoral Counselor, BS, ThM, PhD
Verified Verified
Ocala, FL 34474
For over 40 years, I have counseled people by telephone nationwide with many different issues impacting marriages, parenting, professionals, college students, first responders, clergy and others.
You have been struggling with all kinds of issues. Perhaps you have gotten nowhere with other counseling services, and now you are to the point of frustration, fear, discouragement and just giving up. You don't have to feel this way.
I'm Dr. Dave Jones, and I offer no nonsense Christian counseling. I won't waste your time discussing psychological concepts and principles. I will listen to you, challenge you, and together we will create a plan to help you heal. You can gain a fresh focus, become a person of character, and shine a light into your darkness. It's now time to move you from Hurt to Hope.
For over 40 years, I have counseled people by telephone nationwide with many different issues impacting marriages, parenting, professionals, college students, first responders, clergy and others.
You have been struggling with all kinds of issues. Perhaps you have gotten nowhere with other counseling services, and now you are to the point of frustration, fear, discouragement and just giving up. You don't have to feel this way.
I'm Dr. Dave Jones, and I offer no nonsense Christian counseling. I won't waste your time discussing psychological concepts and principles. I will listen to you, challenge you, and together we will create a plan to help you heal. You can gain a fresh focus, become a person of character, and shine a light into your darkness. It's now time to move you from Hurt to Hope.
Joseph J Lastraglio
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Casselberry, FL 32707
I am also well-trained in working with first responders and the stress associated with that field.
Life can be so confusing and stressful nowadays. That is why finding the right therapist who can help you navigate those barriers is so important. Allow me the opportunity to be that support you are searching for. My goal is to promote a safe and relaxing environment where you can feel free to work through any and all concerns you may be struggling with.
I am also well-trained in working with first responders and the stress associated with that field.
Life can be so confusing and stressful nowadays. That is why finding the right therapist who can help you navigate those barriers is so important. Allow me the opportunity to be that support you are searching for. My goal is to promote a safe and relaxing environment where you can feel free to work through any and all concerns you may be struggling with.
I work with individuals, couples, families, veterans, first responders, Latino and the military community.
I believe in creating a safe, compassionate, and trustworthy environment where my clients feel heard, not judged, and empowered to choose their own path to healing. I believe in providing a holistic approach for each individual client to help them develop their own toolbox with skills that not only will guide them through their healing process, but also maintain their treatment gains in the days to come.
I work with individuals, couples, families, veterans, first responders, Latino and the military community.
I believe in creating a safe, compassionate, and trustworthy environment where my clients feel heard, not judged, and empowered to choose their own path to healing. I believe in providing a holistic approach for each individual client to help them develop their own toolbox with skills that not only will guide them through their healing process, but also maintain their treatment gains in the days to come.
Heather Allen
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Additionally, with a background as a former firefighter/ paramedic, I’m very passionate about supporting first responders and those in high-stress careers.
Hello there. It’s wonderful to meet you. Life can certainly feel overwhelming, and finding the time and space to focus on yourself can be challenging. The good news is, I’m here to create a supportive, down-to-earth space where you can pause, feel genuinely heard, and work toward meaningful changes in your life—all from the comfort of your own space through virtual sessions. I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping clients navigate issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, and life transitions, to name a few.
Additionally, with a background as a former firefighter/ paramedic, I’m very passionate about supporting first responders and those in high-stress careers.
Hello there. It’s wonderful to meet you. Life can certainly feel overwhelming, and finding the time and space to focus on yourself can be challenging. The good news is, I’m here to create a supportive, down-to-earth space where you can pause, feel genuinely heard, and work toward meaningful changes in your life—all from the comfort of your own space through virtual sessions. I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping clients navigate issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, and life transitions, to name a few.
I have a vast amount of experience working with those who have experienced trauma including children, first responders, and veterans.
Hi there, I'm Sunshine. Do you feel overwhelmed and need some help figuring things out? I enjoy working with people who face unique situations and challenges. I believe that we all have the potential to achieve the best versions of ourselves and we just need some support along the way. I enjoy working with very young children, older children, teenagers, and adults, pre-marital couples, married/established couples, and family systems. No matter what brings you to therapy my goal is to help you develop practical, realistic, and effective strategies for more successful living.
I have a vast amount of experience working with those who have experienced trauma including children, first responders, and veterans.
Hi there, I'm Sunshine. Do you feel overwhelmed and need some help figuring things out? I enjoy working with people who face unique situations and challenges. I believe that we all have the potential to achieve the best versions of ourselves and we just need some support along the way. I enjoy working with very young children, older children, teenagers, and adults, pre-marital couples, married/established couples, and family systems. No matter what brings you to therapy my goal is to help you develop practical, realistic, and effective strategies for more successful living.
I work with First Responders and their families, as well as teens and young adults.
I take a Person-Centered approach to therapy. My clients use their personal strengths to overcome their barriers. By helping my clients identify and use their internal resources, they become more successful at sustaining long-term relief from mental health disorders.
I work with First Responders and their families, as well as teens and young adults.
I take a Person-Centered approach to therapy. My clients use their personal strengths to overcome their barriers. By helping my clients identify and use their internal resources, they become more successful at sustaining long-term relief from mental health disorders.
Although I accept clients from all backgrounds, I primarily focus on Police Officers, Correctional Officers, EMT/ Paramedics, Dispatchers, Firefighters, Nurses, ER Doctors or any other First Responder.
Hello! Do you struggle with those pesky racing thoughts, where it seems your brain will not shut off? Negative thoughts? Feelings of hopelessness? A feeling of not being good enough or unworthy? Do you struggle with relationships, whether it is personal or work-related? Are you unsatisfied with your job, home life, relationship, or yourself in general and want to make changes?
Although I accept clients from all backgrounds, I primarily focus on Police Officers, Correctional Officers, EMT/ Paramedics, Dispatchers, Firefighters, Nurses, ER Doctors or any other First Responder.
Hello! Do you struggle with those pesky racing thoughts, where it seems your brain will not shut off? Negative thoughts? Feelings of hopelessness? A feeling of not being good enough or unworthy? Do you struggle with relationships, whether it is personal or work-related? Are you unsatisfied with your job, home life, relationship, or yourself in general and want to make changes?
I am well-versed in trauma-focused care, with a background in treating military, first responders, and law enforcement officers.
Welcome! I'm Valerie Falcone, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (RMHCI). I am passionate about helping you through your struggles and the things that affect your daily life. Whether that'd be anxiety, depression, adjusting to new life transitions, taking the next step in a career, past trauma, conflict, and even grief; I am here to help get you through to healing. I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, am EMDR trained through EMDRIA, Suicide Prevention trained, and will be embarking on a PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology this Spring.
I am well-versed in trauma-focused care, with a background in treating military, first responders, and law enforcement officers.
Welcome! I'm Valerie Falcone, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern (RMHCI). I am passionate about helping you through your struggles and the things that affect your daily life. Whether that'd be anxiety, depression, adjusting to new life transitions, taking the next step in a career, past trauma, conflict, and even grief; I am here to help get you through to healing. I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, am EMDR trained through EMDRIA, Suicide Prevention trained, and will be embarking on a PhD in Industrial/Organizational Psychology this Spring.
Tammy Lajoie, Behavioral Health & Wellness Counsel
MA, BCS, PreLMHC, Pre PhD
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32940
Waitlist for new clients
The main issues I can assist you with in a typical treatment plan may involve working together in partnership to address the complex stages of life, adjustments within self, personal & professional relationships, academic, occupational & overall dynamic challenge in health & wellness as children, teens, parents, student athletes teachers, admin, employees, employers, first responders & veterans.
Congratulations on taking your 1st step toward seeking professional counseling in behavior health & wellness counseling. I would be honored to partner with you on your path towards behavior change & growth development. My passion is to provide a safe, confidential & non judgmental environment, where you are heard, empowered, encouraged, & motivated to explore, create healthy goals & objectives, adjust behaviors & accountability. Together, we explore your needs, emotions & triggers within your relationships, occupation, social, education & self-care. We will process & discover your inner strengths & how you can live your best life.
The main issues I can assist you with in a typical treatment plan may involve working together in partnership to address the complex stages of life, adjustments within self, personal & professional relationships, academic, occupational & overall dynamic challenge in health & wellness as children, teens, parents, student athletes teachers, admin, employees, employers, first responders & veterans.
Congratulations on taking your 1st step toward seeking professional counseling in behavior health & wellness counseling. I would be honored to partner with you on your path towards behavior change & growth development. My passion is to provide a safe, confidential & non judgmental environment, where you are heard, empowered, encouraged, & motivated to explore, create healthy goals & objectives, adjust behaviors & accountability. Together, we explore your needs, emotions & triggers within your relationships, occupation, social, education & self-care. We will process & discover your inner strengths & how you can live your best life.
Drawing on years of experience working closely with first responders, I have honed my skills in providing effective counseling support to those facing intense and stressful situations.
In a world often clouded by uncertainty and distrust, I am here to offer you a sanctuary of support and understanding. As a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern deeply invested in creating safe spaces for individuals to openly express their emotions without the burden of judgment, I am committed to nurturing trust and fostering healing. I believe that every individual deserves to have a voice, to be heard, and to be supported on their journey towards inner peace and resilience. Let us embark on this transformative journey together, where your well-being and growth are of utmost importance.
Drawing on years of experience working closely with first responders, I have honed my skills in providing effective counseling support to those facing intense and stressful situations.
In a world often clouded by uncertainty and distrust, I am here to offer you a sanctuary of support and understanding. As a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern deeply invested in creating safe spaces for individuals to openly express their emotions without the burden of judgment, I am committed to nurturing trust and fostering healing. I believe that every individual deserves to have a voice, to be heard, and to be supported on their journey towards inner peace and resilience. Let us embark on this transformative journey together, where your well-being and growth are of utmost importance.
See more therapy options for Polk County
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.