First Responders Therapists in Brooklyn, NY
Welcome to the best you! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist Intern dedicated to helping individuals and couples create lasting change. I am a witness to the transformative power of hope; change starts with believing that your life can be different. I aim to help you recognize your unique strengths and empower you to reach your full potential. I work with individuals facing anxiety, self-esteem challenges, and life transitions, as well as couples navigating relationship concerns. Whether you’re seeking personal growth or healing in your relationship or family, I am here to guide you.
Welcome to the best you! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist Intern dedicated to helping individuals and couples create lasting change. I am a witness to the transformative power of hope; change starts with believing that your life can be different. I aim to help you recognize your unique strengths and empower you to reach your full potential. I work with individuals facing anxiety, self-esteem challenges, and life transitions, as well as couples navigating relationship concerns. Whether you’re seeking personal growth or healing in your relationship or family, I am here to guide you.
I also have extensive experience working with First Responders in government and hospital settings.
When people who are new to therapy ask me what it’s like, I say that while it’s not always comfortable, it is often an incredibly rich and powerful experience—even after only one session. You will move toward a more grounded place, strengthen your coping skills and hopefully learn to give yourself more compassion. Therapy can serve as an anchor as you move through the stickiness that life can bring. We often underestimate how much relief we can experience simply having the space to feel heard by someone.
I also have extensive experience working with First Responders in government and hospital settings.
When people who are new to therapy ask me what it’s like, I say that while it’s not always comfortable, it is often an incredibly rich and powerful experience—even after only one session. You will move toward a more grounded place, strengthen your coping skills and hopefully learn to give yourself more compassion. Therapy can serve as an anchor as you move through the stickiness that life can bring. We often underestimate how much relief we can experience simply having the space to feel heard by someone.
Hello! My name is Justine Vaughn, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and a Certified First Responder Counselor. I graduated with my Masters degree in 2019 and have worked in a variety of counseling settings in order to gain experience and grow professionally. I have been working in the counseling field since 2012, and have experience working with adolescents and adults who have been dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and substance use problems.
Hello! My name is Justine Vaughn, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and a Certified First Responder Counselor. I graduated with my Masters degree in 2019 and have worked in a variety of counseling settings in order to gain experience and grow professionally. I have been working in the counseling field since 2012, and have experience working with adolescents and adults who have been dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and substance use problems.
I believe that the therapy relationship has the ability to provide healing, growth and change. Finding a therapist who helps you feel safe, supported and challenged is central to this process. My style is warm and curious as well as direct and challenging. I am an active participant in the process as we seek out the hard and stuck places that get in the way of balance and meaningful relationships.
I believe that the therapy relationship has the ability to provide healing, growth and change. Finding a therapist who helps you feel safe, supported and challenged is central to this process. My style is warm and curious as well as direct and challenging. I am an active participant in the process as we seek out the hard and stuck places that get in the way of balance and meaningful relationships.
You might feel like you're spinning your wheels—stuck in old patterns, overwhelmed by anxiety, mood swings, or relationship challenges that just won’t budge. Maybe you’ve tried to push through, but something deeper is calling for attention. I specialize in relational trauma and offer a down-to-earth, integrative approach that blends psychodynamic insight, somatic awareness, and practical tools.
You might feel like you're spinning your wheels—stuck in old patterns, overwhelmed by anxiety, mood swings, or relationship challenges that just won’t budge. Maybe you’ve tried to push through, but something deeper is calling for attention. I specialize in relational trauma and offer a down-to-earth, integrative approach that blends psychodynamic insight, somatic awareness, and practical tools.
I help First Responders, individuals, and couples move from surviving to living.
We’ll use EMDR to process trauma so it stops triggering you, and CBT/DBT to manage anxiety & anger. We'll dismantle walls to replace conflict with understanding. I provide private, flexible online therapy across NY & NJ—no commute, just results.
I help First Responders, individuals, and couples move from surviving to living.
We’ll use EMDR to process trauma so it stops triggering you, and CBT/DBT to manage anxiety & anger. We'll dismantle walls to replace conflict with understanding. I provide private, flexible online therapy across NY & NJ—no commute, just results.
My ideal client is someone who is looking for a safe place to remember who they are and give voice to what they long for. They want an affirming, collaborative relationship where all parts of them are welcome, and where complexity can be held with tenderness. They need compassion, curiosity, and clarity—along with a pace that feels respectful and grounded. Their goals are to feel more like themselves again, to better understand what’s happening beneath the surface, and to open space for greater choice, connection, and freedom—within themselves, in their relationships, and in the world around them.
My ideal client is someone who is looking for a safe place to remember who they are and give voice to what they long for. They want an affirming, collaborative relationship where all parts of them are welcome, and where complexity can be held with tenderness. They need compassion, curiosity, and clarity—along with a pace that feels respectful and grounded. Their goals are to feel more like themselves again, to better understand what’s happening beneath the surface, and to open space for greater choice, connection, and freedom—within themselves, in their relationships, and in the world around them.
Anxiety can leave you feeling stuck in life—and the harder you try to get unstuck, the more trapped you may feel. From the outside, others might see you as having it all together, but inside you may feel exhausted by the constant effort it takes to function. As a licensed clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience, I specialize in helping clients break free from patterns that are keeping them stuck. I enjoy treating obsessive-compulsive disorders (including body-focused repetitive behaviors), ADHD, anxiety, and depression, particularly when other therapies haven't been helpful.
Anxiety can leave you feeling stuck in life—and the harder you try to get unstuck, the more trapped you may feel. From the outside, others might see you as having it all together, but inside you may feel exhausted by the constant effort it takes to function. As a licensed clinical psychologist with over fifteen years of experience, I specialize in helping clients break free from patterns that are keeping them stuck. I enjoy treating obsessive-compulsive disorders (including body-focused repetitive behaviors), ADHD, anxiety, and depression, particularly when other therapies haven't been helpful.
My background includes serving as a crisis counselor in a local Brooklyn emergency department providing support and care to survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
We live in a world full of racism, transphobia, homophobia, fatphobia, and misogyny that is oppressive and isolating. The shame and rejection we experience can become ever-present in our minds. I see sex and pleasure as empowering ways to heal. I endeavor to hold space compassionately, empathically and to be present however clients need – non-judgmentally seeing and positively affirming their strengths and struggles.
My background includes serving as a crisis counselor in a local Brooklyn emergency department providing support and care to survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
We live in a world full of racism, transphobia, homophobia, fatphobia, and misogyny that is oppressive and isolating. The shame and rejection we experience can become ever-present in our minds. I see sex and pleasure as empowering ways to heal. I endeavor to hold space compassionately, empathically and to be present however clients need – non-judgmentally seeing and positively affirming their strengths and struggles.
I want to commend you for taking this courageous step toward healing. Because healing is deeply personal, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. My work is grounded in awareness and consciousness, drawing from a range of clinical modalities with a holistic, eclectic approach. Together, we will create a strategic and personalized path toward empowerment and well-being. I am committed to building a safe, supportive relationship where we can explore challenges, gain understanding, and create meaningful change.
I want to commend you for taking this courageous step toward healing. Because healing is deeply personal, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. My work is grounded in awareness and consciousness, drawing from a range of clinical modalities with a holistic, eclectic approach. Together, we will create a strategic and personalized path toward empowerment and well-being. I am committed to building a safe, supportive relationship where we can explore challenges, gain understanding, and create meaningful change.
I offer an LGBTQ+ affirming therapy space that is welcoming to those with nonreligious or spiritual beliefs. My goal is to create a collaborative, honest environment where you can show up as you are and think out loud without fear of judgment. Together, we'll work toward building trust in yourself and making changes that last. I work best with people who are curious about their patterns, open to humor, and ready to explore what’s been getting in the way. I don’t position myself as “the expert,” but as a problem-solving partner alongside you.
I offer an LGBTQ+ affirming therapy space that is welcoming to those with nonreligious or spiritual beliefs. My goal is to create a collaborative, honest environment where you can show up as you are and think out loud without fear of judgment. Together, we'll work toward building trust in yourself and making changes that last. I work best with people who are curious about their patterns, open to humor, and ready to explore what’s been getting in the way. I don’t position myself as “the expert,” but as a problem-solving partner alongside you.
With specialized training in military trauma & experience working with veterans, I also offer informed care for those navigating the challenges of service-related experiences.
Feeling stuck in patterns that affect your relationships, self-esteem, or overall well-being? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Abigail, and I help individuals explore how early life and traumatic experiences shape thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Together, we’ll look at how the past influences how you relate to yourself, others, and the world. Whether you're facing anxiety, relationship challenges, eating disorders, or the lasting impact of trauma, I offer a space where you can feel safe, seen, and understood. Together, we’ll unlearn what’s holding you back and build the life you want.
With specialized training in military trauma & experience working with veterans, I also offer informed care for those navigating the challenges of service-related experiences.
Feeling stuck in patterns that affect your relationships, self-esteem, or overall well-being? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m Abigail, and I help individuals explore how early life and traumatic experiences shape thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Together, we’ll look at how the past influences how you relate to yourself, others, and the world. Whether you're facing anxiety, relationship challenges, eating disorders, or the lasting impact of trauma, I offer a space where you can feel safe, seen, and understood. Together, we’ll unlearn what’s holding you back and build the life you want.
For Aviation, Veteran & High-Performance Professionals:Stress, Upset, performance degradation. When your body, mind, emotion are misaligned- your internal systems- even small shifts feel turbulent. You don’t need someone to fly you out of it. You need a copilot: someone who helps observe and identify what's happening and support in steadying your system so you can function with clarity, presence, and purpose.
I help professionals, veterans, high-performers, and aviation specialists feel more grounded, centered, and in control.
Clients state they feel calmer in their bodies, think more clearly, and optimize their confidence.
For Aviation, Veteran & High-Performance Professionals:Stress, Upset, performance degradation. When your body, mind, emotion are misaligned- your internal systems- even small shifts feel turbulent. You don’t need someone to fly you out of it. You need a copilot: someone who helps observe and identify what's happening and support in steadying your system so you can function with clarity, presence, and purpose.
I help professionals, veterans, high-performers, and aviation specialists feel more grounded, centered, and in control.
Clients state they feel calmer in their bodies, think more clearly, and optimize their confidence.
My ideal client may be navigating life transitions, anxiety, trauma, or early stages of a medical challenge. You may feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or stuck; yearning for clarity, stability, and a stronger connection with yourself and others. You may be seeking a space where you can be heard without judgment and where your individual story is honored. Your goals may include processing painful experiences, improving emotional regulation, or redefining what healing looks like on your own terms. You are ready to explore change, even if you're unsure where to start.
My ideal client may be navigating life transitions, anxiety, trauma, or early stages of a medical challenge. You may feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or stuck; yearning for clarity, stability, and a stronger connection with yourself and others. You may be seeking a space where you can be heard without judgment and where your individual story is honored. Your goals may include processing painful experiences, improving emotional regulation, or redefining what healing looks like on your own terms. You are ready to explore change, even if you're unsure where to start.
Beginning your search for a therapist can be challenging. While I do not yet know you or what you need to hear to reach out, you can be certain that I wish to know and understand. I work well with people who appear "fine" from the outside, but may be struggling internally. I am known for providing a non-judgemental space that fosters curiosity, where we can work through whatever it is that's making you feel stuck.
Beginning your search for a therapist can be challenging. While I do not yet know you or what you need to hear to reach out, you can be certain that I wish to know and understand. I work well with people who appear "fine" from the outside, but may be struggling internally. I am known for providing a non-judgemental space that fosters curiosity, where we can work through whatever it is that's making you feel stuck.
I help adults who feel overloaded by stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or unresolved trauma—especially professionals in high-stress roles, first responders, and veterans.
I’m an EMDR-Certified therapist (trained in EMDR 2.0) and also draw on CBT, mindfulness, IFS/parts work, and existential therapy to fit what works best for you. Clients often describe feeling “lighter,” sleeping better, and having more control over their reactions and choices.
I help adults who feel overloaded by stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or unresolved trauma—especially professionals in high-stress roles, first responders, and veterans.
I’m an EMDR-Certified therapist (trained in EMDR 2.0) and also draw on CBT, mindfulness, IFS/parts work, and existential therapy to fit what works best for you. Clients often describe feeling “lighter,” sleeping better, and having more control over their reactions and choices.
It's common to feel the impact of past trauma lingering in your present life and intimate relationships. If you're looking for a therapy experience that honors the deep connection between your mind and body, offering more than just conversation, I can help. I rely strongly on a relational approach, prioritizing the safety and connection in our work together.
It's common to feel the impact of past trauma lingering in your present life and intimate relationships. If you're looking for a therapy experience that honors the deep connection between your mind and body, offering more than just conversation, I can help. I rely strongly on a relational approach, prioritizing the safety and connection in our work together.
Are you struggling with perfectionism, burnout, imposter syndrome, feeling like you should be better or do better? Are you feeling easily triggered, always on, self-downing or people pleasing? Please, know that healing is possible. I love helping clients regain control of their nervous system, and getting unstuck by reprocessing old attachment wounds and traumas. Let's take the path together to empower your internal resources and integrate disconnected memories and parts to heal the whole you.
Are you struggling with perfectionism, burnout, imposter syndrome, feeling like you should be better or do better? Are you feeling easily triggered, always on, self-downing or people pleasing? Please, know that healing is possible. I love helping clients regain control of their nervous system, and getting unstuck by reprocessing old attachment wounds and traumas. Let's take the path together to empower your internal resources and integrate disconnected memories and parts to heal the whole you.
I work with adults coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma as well as those navigating relationship issues, looking to build their self-esteem, and explore their identities. I provide a nonjudgmental space for clients to reflect on their journeys and make the effective changes they are seeking. Building a strong therapeutic rapport is the heart of my approach. As a therapist, I have an interactive style and strive to balance this with giving you the space to talk things through and give space to put words to what you are experiencing.
I work with adults coping with anxiety, depression, and trauma as well as those navigating relationship issues, looking to build their self-esteem, and explore their identities. I provide a nonjudgmental space for clients to reflect on their journeys and make the effective changes they are seeking. Building a strong therapeutic rapport is the heart of my approach. As a therapist, I have an interactive style and strive to balance this with giving you the space to talk things through and give space to put words to what you are experiencing.
Much of my work focuses on men’s relational and emotional well-being, especially those who present as high-functioning while quietly struggling. My clients often initially measure their identity or worth through success, responsibility, or likability within community. Beneath that, hidden shame, fear of rejection, or long-standing patterns of people-pleasing have left them feeling anxious, disconnected, or unknown. I also support gay, bisexual, and queer men navigating the tension between authenticity and attachment, exploring how early experiences of conditional belonging shaped the ways they relate to themselves and others
Much of my work focuses on men’s relational and emotional well-being, especially those who present as high-functioning while quietly struggling. My clients often initially measure their identity or worth through success, responsibility, or likability within community. Beneath that, hidden shame, fear of rejection, or long-standing patterns of people-pleasing have left them feeling anxious, disconnected, or unknown. I also support gay, bisexual, and queer men navigating the tension between authenticity and attachment, exploring how early experiences of conditional belonging shaped the ways they relate to themselves and others
See more therapy options for Brooklyn
Nearby First Responders Therapists Searches for Brooklyn
- Astoria
- Bayside
- Bronx
- Flushing
- Forest Hills
- Jackson Heights
- Jamaica
- Long Island City
- New York
- Queens Village
- Ridgewood
- Staten Island
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.