First Responders Therapists in Santa Fe, NM
I have extensive experience working as a crisis therapist and working with first responders.
Sometimes you don’t need years of therapy—you just need some clarity, perspective, practical tools that actually help, and a little laughter. I’m an experienced therapist who works in a kind, collaborative, solution-oriented way to help clients understand what’s keeping them stuck and take meaningful steps toward change.
Clients often describe my style as practical, straightforward, and genuinely helpful. I bring a calm, grounded presence to our work, focusing on clarity, compassion, and real-life support. My goal is to help things feel more manageable and less overwhelming, while staying focused on what matters most to you.
I have extensive experience working as a crisis therapist and working with first responders.
Sometimes you don’t need years of therapy—you just need some clarity, perspective, practical tools that actually help, and a little laughter. I’m an experienced therapist who works in a kind, collaborative, solution-oriented way to help clients understand what’s keeping them stuck and take meaningful steps toward change.
Clients often describe my style as practical, straightforward, and genuinely helpful. I bring a calm, grounded presence to our work, focusing on clarity, compassion, and real-life support. My goal is to help things feel more manageable and less overwhelming, while staying focused on what matters most to you.
Our minds shape the quality of every moment of our lives. And our minds are not just our thoughts; they include our bodies, relationships, histories, cultures, and imaginations. They hold our past, our work and creativity, as well as our emotions and inner experience.
In therapy, we can learn to be in relationship with all of these parts of ourselves—listening and engaging with curiosity, care, and respect. Through this process, what has been fragmented or burdened can begin to integrate, nourishing our life and our connections to others.
Our minds shape the quality of every moment of our lives. And our minds are not just our thoughts; they include our bodies, relationships, histories, cultures, and imaginations. They hold our past, our work and creativity, as well as our emotions and inner experience.
In therapy, we can learn to be in relationship with all of these parts of ourselves—listening and engaging with curiosity, care, and respect. Through this process, what has been fragmented or burdened can begin to integrate, nourishing our life and our connections to others.
Life can pull us in many directions—away from our bodies, our purpose, our relationships, and the deeper knowing that lives quietly within us. My approach to therapy supports you in returning to yourself: gathering the parts that may have been scattered by trauma, stress, or survival, and gently weaving them back into a felt sense of wholeness. Whether you're moving through anxiety, identity shifts, emotional disconnection, or a deep longing to feel more fully alive, this work invites you back into relationship with your truth, your body, your story, and the wisdom that has always been yours.
Life can pull us in many directions—away from our bodies, our purpose, our relationships, and the deeper knowing that lives quietly within us. My approach to therapy supports you in returning to yourself: gathering the parts that may have been scattered by trauma, stress, or survival, and gently weaving them back into a felt sense of wholeness. Whether you're moving through anxiety, identity shifts, emotional disconnection, or a deep longing to feel more fully alive, this work invites you back into relationship with your truth, your body, your story, and the wisdom that has always been yours.
Valentina Victoria Watson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, CRC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi Friends,
Would you like to work towards personal enrichment to gain better understanding of your thoughts and emotions?
I help my clients gain confidence to help move through and resolve their traumas. I would like to help you improve your sense of emotional wellbeing, find greater self awareness, as well as a newfound self confidence to push through life's struggles.
Hola Amigos,
¿Te gustaría trabajar en tu enriquecimiento personal para comprender mejor tus pensamientos y emociones? Ayudo a mis clientes a ganar confianza para superar y resolver sus traumas. Me gustaría ayudarte a mejorar tu bienestar emocional y mental.
Hi Friends,
Would you like to work towards personal enrichment to gain better understanding of your thoughts and emotions?
I help my clients gain confidence to help move through and resolve their traumas. I would like to help you improve your sense of emotional wellbeing, find greater self awareness, as well as a newfound self confidence to push through life's struggles.
Hola Amigos,
¿Te gustaría trabajar en tu enriquecimiento personal para comprender mejor tus pensamientos y emociones? Ayudo a mis clientes a ganar confianza para superar y resolver sus traumas. Me gustaría ayudarte a mejorar tu bienestar emocional y mental.
As a retired military psychologist licensed in NM and TX, I understand the standards and deliver thorough, professional assessments required for success.
I work with active duty service members preparing for discharge and veterans who want to present the strongest possible mental health documentation to the VA. Whether you're filing through the BDD program or submitting a post-discharge claim, you understand the importance of having clear, accurate psychological evidence to support service connection. You may be dealing with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other service-related conditions—and you're ready to have those experiences properly evaluated and documented.
As a retired military psychologist licensed in NM and TX, I understand the standards and deliver thorough, professional assessments required for success.
I work with active duty service members preparing for discharge and veterans who want to present the strongest possible mental health documentation to the VA. Whether you're filing through the BDD program or submitting a post-discharge claim, you understand the importance of having clear, accurate psychological evidence to support service connection. You may be dealing with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other service-related conditions—and you're ready to have those experiences properly evaluated and documented.
I believe that every person possesses the inner strength and resources needed to find happiness and healing. As a transgender woman, I understand both the internal and external forces that can stir self-doubt, amplify fear, and lead to deep feelings of loneliness and uncertainty. I also know—through both personal and professional experience—that self-acceptance and joy are not only possible, but also within reach. Science consistently shows that those who seek support often find meaningful relief and lasting change.
I believe that every person possesses the inner strength and resources needed to find happiness and healing. As a transgender woman, I understand both the internal and external forces that can stir self-doubt, amplify fear, and lead to deep feelings of loneliness and uncertainty. I also know—through both personal and professional experience—that self-acceptance and joy are not only possible, but also within reach. Science consistently shows that those who seek support often find meaningful relief and lasting change.
During times of change, transition, stressful events or due to our limiting beliefs, we may seek guidance to become more flexible, expansive and self- aware. Transitions may include retirement, developing a second act in life, empty nest, aging, grief and loss of a loved one or pet, divorce or trauma. I draw from the ancient wisdom of Yoga, Ayurveda and my knowledge gained through 20 years of professional experience as a therapist, to provide individuals guidance on a path of balance and self- awareness.
During times of change, transition, stressful events or due to our limiting beliefs, we may seek guidance to become more flexible, expansive and self- aware. Transitions may include retirement, developing a second act in life, empty nest, aging, grief and loss of a loved one or pet, divorce or trauma. I draw from the ancient wisdom of Yoga, Ayurveda and my knowledge gained through 20 years of professional experience as a therapist, to provide individuals guidance on a path of balance and self- awareness.
While we are shaped by our wounds, they don’t have to define us – they are part of what makes us whole. As Leonard Cohen says: “There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in". I offer relational psychoanalysis and psychotherapy for adults, couples, and groups — a space to explore pain, longing, purpose, and the quiet sense that something within you is asking to be known. Together, we’ll move at the pace of truth and curiosity. This work welcomes both the visible and invisible parts of your experience, including the symbolic, intuitive, and spiritual dimensions that often live just beneath the surface.
While we are shaped by our wounds, they don’t have to define us – they are part of what makes us whole. As Leonard Cohen says: “There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in". I offer relational psychoanalysis and psychotherapy for adults, couples, and groups — a space to explore pain, longing, purpose, and the quiet sense that something within you is asking to be known. Together, we’ll move at the pace of truth and curiosity. This work welcomes both the visible and invisible parts of your experience, including the symbolic, intuitive, and spiritual dimensions that often live just beneath the surface.
Because I work with vulnerable/marginalized people as well military folks I will no longer keep client information anywhere online including electronic health records and progress notes.
Pajama Forward Therapist here! If white knuckling, self shaming, and pulling yourself up by your bootstraps worked, you’d be “cured” a billion times over. It doesn’t. At least not for me or people whose brains are different. Our minds race and it feels impossible to turn off and rest. Sometimes we use substances or other behaviors in a harmful way just to get through the day. There’s more to life out there. A more peaceful and meaningful life is possible. We need to go deeper and get to the root of things. I’ll go with you. Unable to take insurance.
Because I work with vulnerable/marginalized people as well military folks I will no longer keep client information anywhere online including electronic health records and progress notes.
Pajama Forward Therapist here! If white knuckling, self shaming, and pulling yourself up by your bootstraps worked, you’d be “cured” a billion times over. It doesn’t. At least not for me or people whose brains are different. Our minds race and it feels impossible to turn off and rest. Sometimes we use substances or other behaviors in a harmful way just to get through the day. There’s more to life out there. A more peaceful and meaningful life is possible. We need to go deeper and get to the root of things. I’ll go with you. Unable to take insurance.
I work with first responders who are looking for relief and operational clarity without judgment, providing the practical support needed to feel grounded, confident, and back in control of life both on and off the clock.
I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. My approach is practical and evidence-based, utilizing CBT and trauma-informed care tailored for high-stress environments. We won't just "talk"; we’ll build a tactical toolkit to manage hyper-vigilance, burnout, and the specific psychological demands of EMS, Fire, and Corrections work.
I work with first responders who are looking for relief and operational clarity without judgment, providing the practical support needed to feel grounded, confident, and back in control of life both on and off the clock.
I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. My approach is practical and evidence-based, utilizing CBT and trauma-informed care tailored for high-stress environments. We won't just "talk"; we’ll build a tactical toolkit to manage hyper-vigilance, burnout, and the specific psychological demands of EMS, Fire, and Corrections work.
There's alot of therapists to scroll through so maybe this helps: 1) I've done this for over a decade 2) I'm willing to work with anyone, but I'm not woke 3) I became a born again Christian two years ago, but only integrate it into therapy if desired 4) Most clients who work with me are seeking freedom, improved relationships, and alleviation from anxiety, depression or trauma etc.
There's alot of therapists to scroll through so maybe this helps: 1) I've done this for over a decade 2) I'm willing to work with anyone, but I'm not woke 3) I became a born again Christian two years ago, but only integrate it into therapy if desired 4) Most clients who work with me are seeking freedom, improved relationships, and alleviation from anxiety, depression or trauma etc.
Simply put, at the end of the day people just want to feel better. Let's work together to explore and create the changes you seek. I have 10+ years of experience in community based settings and private practice working with individuals, couples, and families. Clients I work with often look to strengthen their sense of connection to themselves and others, gain insight into their life experiences and how those experiences have shaped them, and develop effective strategies for coping with everyday stressors as well as challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, relational patterns/attachment styles, and identity.
Simply put, at the end of the day people just want to feel better. Let's work together to explore and create the changes you seek. I have 10+ years of experience in community based settings and private practice working with individuals, couples, and families. Clients I work with often look to strengthen their sense of connection to themselves and others, gain insight into their life experiences and how those experiences have shaped them, and develop effective strategies for coping with everyday stressors as well as challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, relational patterns/attachment styles, and identity.
I'm deeply passionate about supporting men's issues, "adulting" transitions, student-athletes, and military personnel, fostering holistic well-being through a mind-body lens.
Are you familiar with the relentless pressure to perform, yet are quietly struggling with anxiety, anger, or a pervasive sense of being stuck? Perhaps you’re an athlete pushing limits, a young adult navigating "adulting," or a professional seeking more from life. I understand that hidden battle. My own journey as a college athlete wrestling with depression taught me the profound power of authentic support. What if you could find a space where your quiet struggles are seen, validated, and transformed into resilient growth? That’s where we begin. We meet online, wherever you feel most comfortable.
I'm deeply passionate about supporting men's issues, "adulting" transitions, student-athletes, and military personnel, fostering holistic well-being through a mind-body lens.
Are you familiar with the relentless pressure to perform, yet are quietly struggling with anxiety, anger, or a pervasive sense of being stuck? Perhaps you’re an athlete pushing limits, a young adult navigating "adulting," or a professional seeking more from life. I understand that hidden battle. My own journey as a college athlete wrestling with depression taught me the profound power of authentic support. What if you could find a space where your quiet struggles are seen, validated, and transformed into resilient growth? That’s where we begin. We meet online, wherever you feel most comfortable.
I have experience working with active-duty and retired military and their families.
Are you tired of hearing self-doubt that stifles your progress? I have learned there is a theme in helping people; listening to the needs of the individual. Hearing what they have to say, understanding their needs, working on self-confidence(knowledge), self-belief(action) creates self-esteem. I believe that, when given the right opportunity, each of us will grow. My goal is to provide an environment in which people feel safe to talk about themselves. My overall goal is to help people build on their strengths, building their self-esteem, for personal growth.
I have experience working with active-duty and retired military and their families.
Are you tired of hearing self-doubt that stifles your progress? I have learned there is a theme in helping people; listening to the needs of the individual. Hearing what they have to say, understanding their needs, working on self-confidence(knowledge), self-belief(action) creates self-esteem. I believe that, when given the right opportunity, each of us will grow. My goal is to provide an environment in which people feel safe to talk about themselves. My overall goal is to help people build on their strengths, building their self-esteem, for personal growth.
Feeling overwhelmed by stress, relationship challenges, or life transitions? You’re not alone. Therapy can help you feel grounded, understood, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
I work with adults of all stages and ages who want support navigating emotional overwhelm, strengthening relationships, and building life strategies that fit who they are. I often work with older adults, caregivers, and those living with or caring for someone with a neurodegenerative disorder. I am licensed in New Mexico and Texas.
Feeling overwhelmed by stress, relationship challenges, or life transitions? You’re not alone. Therapy can help you feel grounded, understood, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
I work with adults of all stages and ages who want support navigating emotional overwhelm, strengthening relationships, and building life strategies that fit who they are. I often work with older adults, caregivers, and those living with or caring for someone with a neurodegenerative disorder. I am licensed in New Mexico and Texas.
My ideal clients are individuals navigating life transitions, emotional challenges, stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, or personal growth concerns. Many come to therapy seeking support, clarity, coping skills, and a safe space to process their experiences without judgment. I provide compassionate, client-centered care tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals. I am dedicated to help clients move forward by building practical coping strategies, increasing self-awareness, strengthening resilience, and creating meaningful, lasting change through evidence-based and supportive therapeutic approaches.
My ideal clients are individuals navigating life transitions, emotional challenges, stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, or personal growth concerns. Many come to therapy seeking support, clarity, coping skills, and a safe space to process their experiences without judgment. I provide compassionate, client-centered care tailored to each person’s unique needs and goals. I am dedicated to help clients move forward by building practical coping strategies, increasing self-awareness, strengthening resilience, and creating meaningful, lasting change through evidence-based and supportive therapeutic approaches.
The Lighted Path, LLC. Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Serves Area
I hold a deep respect for the complexities of the human experience, which serves as the foundation for this practice of active listening and radical empathy. My work is rooted in the principles of compassion, justice, and community engagement. I believe trauma-informed counseling is a vital pathway to growth—one that is not merely a solitary journey, but a collaborative partnership.
I hold a deep respect for the complexities of the human experience, which serves as the foundation for this practice of active listening and radical empathy. My work is rooted in the principles of compassion, justice, and community engagement. I believe trauma-informed counseling is a vital pathway to growth—one that is not merely a solitary journey, but a collaborative partnership.
We all know what anxiety feels like. We get butterflies in our stomachs, our hearts pound; we worry and fret, or feel jittery. This can happen when we are alone, in social contexts, elevators, in the car, or even just thinking about it. If worries and fears, anxiety, panic, or insomnia related to anxiety are preventing you from living your life the way you’d like, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. Anxiety is an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts and physical changes like increased blood pressure. In short it is our body’s response to a perceived threat.
We all know what anxiety feels like. We get butterflies in our stomachs, our hearts pound; we worry and fret, or feel jittery. This can happen when we are alone, in social contexts, elevators, in the car, or even just thinking about it. If worries and fears, anxiety, panic, or insomnia related to anxiety are preventing you from living your life the way you’d like, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. Anxiety is an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts and physical changes like increased blood pressure. In short it is our body’s response to a perceived threat.
You’ve taken a brave first step just by being here. Your emotions are valid, and you deserve a space where they are truly heard. Whether you are struggling to find the right words for your experience, need a safe place to vent, or simply require a listening ear to process the weight of it all—you don’t have to carry it alone.
You’ve taken a brave first step just by being here. Your emotions are valid, and you deserve a space where they are truly heard. Whether you are struggling to find the right words for your experience, need a safe place to vent, or simply require a listening ear to process the weight of it all—you don’t have to carry it alone.
I also have 11 years of experiences of working with military members and their families.
Hello Amazing Human Being!
Take a deep breath—you got this—you’ve just taken a really meaningful step, and that’s something to be proud of. Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, unsure, or all of the above, just know this is a space where you can be fully yourself. No masks, no judgment—just real talk and support.
I also have 11 years of experiences of working with military members and their families.
Hello Amazing Human Being!
Take a deep breath—you got this—you’ve just taken a really meaningful step, and that’s something to be proud of. Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, unsure, or all of the above, just know this is a space where you can be fully yourself. No masks, no judgment—just real talk and support.
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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.