First Responders Therapists in Union County, OH

Photo of Jennifer Shuster, Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT
Jennifer Shuster
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT
1 Endorsed
Marysville, OH 43040
It is my honor to walk alongside my clients through some of the most difficult things they face on their journey to healing. We all develop emotional stuck points that hold us back from mental and emotional health. There is hope! Brain based therapy is one of the best answers to these stuck points. I am an EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist offering intensives. I work from an attachment based, trauma informed perspective for healing.
It is my honor to walk alongside my clients through some of the most difficult things they face on their journey to healing. We all develop emotional stuck points that hold us back from mental and emotional health. There is hope! Brain based therapy is one of the best answers to these stuck points. I am an EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist offering intensives. I work from an attachment based, trauma informed perspective for healing.
(937) 749-9910 View (937) 749-9910
Photo of Lisa M Huelskamp, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CWC, NCC, PhD
Lisa M Huelskamp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CWC, NCC, PhD
Marysville, OH 43040
Discounted sessions are offered for students/educators/ military/farmers (including retired).
For those looking for a partner in resolving the emotional, relational, and behavioral issues that interfere with fulfilling one’s life goals, I draw from your strengths and meet you where you are without judgement. My clients describe me as friendly, open-minded, and positive. While I'm a LPC and CWC (Certified Wellness Counselor) and Nat'l Certified Counselor (NCC), I'm a retired OSU clinical researcher, a former educator (33yrs), have a PhD in STEM, and have 50+ years of life-experiences. I have my own private practice, Red Apple Counseling and Consultation, giving flexibility to work around your schedule. I'm here for you.
Discounted sessions are offered for students/educators/ military/farmers (including retired).
For those looking for a partner in resolving the emotional, relational, and behavioral issues that interfere with fulfilling one’s life goals, I draw from your strengths and meet you where you are without judgement. My clients describe me as friendly, open-minded, and positive. While I'm a LPC and CWC (Certified Wellness Counselor) and Nat'l Certified Counselor (NCC), I'm a retired OSU clinical researcher, a former educator (33yrs), have a PhD in STEM, and have 50+ years of life-experiences. I have my own private practice, Red Apple Counseling and Consultation, giving flexibility to work around your schedule. I'm here for you.
(614) 371-5000 View (614) 371-5000
Photo of Jonah Minot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Jonah Minot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Serves Area
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, Military Service Members & Veterans.
I'm experienced in therapies that are conversational in style and designed to be geared to you as an individual. These include Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Crisis Response Planning.
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, Military Service Members & Veterans.
I'm experienced in therapies that are conversational in style and designed to be geared to you as an individual. These include Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Crisis Response Planning.
(614) 983-3958 View (614) 983-3958
Photo of Anita Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Anita Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in trauma, depression, and anxiety, working with veterans, first responders, hospital workers, and women.
Do you feel weighed down by memories that won’t let go, anxiety that keeps your body on high alert, or the pressure to hold it all together when you’re running on empty? Maybe you’ve spent years serving others—whether on the frontlines, in the hospital, or at home—yet inside you feel exhausted, disconnected, or stuck. You may long for peace, balance, and a way to trust yourself again. Together, we can untangle the pain of past experiences, calm the overwhelm, and build tools that help you feel grounded, resilient, and able to thrive instead of just survive.
I specialize in trauma, depression, and anxiety, working with veterans, first responders, hospital workers, and women.
Do you feel weighed down by memories that won’t let go, anxiety that keeps your body on high alert, or the pressure to hold it all together when you’re running on empty? Maybe you’ve spent years serving others—whether on the frontlines, in the hospital, or at home—yet inside you feel exhausted, disconnected, or stuck. You may long for peace, balance, and a way to trust yourself again. Together, we can untangle the pain of past experiences, calm the overwhelm, and build tools that help you feel grounded, resilient, and able to thrive instead of just survive.
(571) 462-6247 View (571) 462-6247

Online Therapists

Photo of Mary DeCenzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, ACTRP-C
Mary DeCenzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, ACTRP-C
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe that building a strong rapport and trust with my clients is the foundation of effective therapy. I am committed to creating a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where you can feel safe to explore, learn, and grow throughout your journey. Listening deeply and attentively is central to my approach—I have often been told that I am a compassionate and attentive listener. I look forward to hearing your story and supporting you in discovering your inner strengths to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
I believe that building a strong rapport and trust with my clients is the foundation of effective therapy. I am committed to creating a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where you can feel safe to explore, learn, and grow throughout your journey. Listening deeply and attentively is central to my approach—I have often been told that I am a compassionate and attentive listener. I look forward to hearing your story and supporting you in discovering your inner strengths to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
(614) 802-6364 View (614) 802-6364
Photo of Ra’shawd E Davis - Ra'Shawd E. Davis Wellness & Recovery, LLC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd
Ra'Shawd E. Davis Wellness & Recovery, LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am currently accepting new clients. Life doesn't pause when things get hard—stress piles up, old wounds resurface, and sometimes you just feel stuck. Whether you're navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or simply trying to find yourself again, you deserve support that actually fits your life. Our work together isn't about quick fixes—it's about building real resilience, uncovering what's holding you back, and creating lasting change. Clients describe me as warm, direct, and deeply invested in their growth. If you're ready to stop surviving and start thriving, I'm here to walk that path with you.
I am currently accepting new clients. Life doesn't pause when things get hard—stress piles up, old wounds resurface, and sometimes you just feel stuck. Whether you're navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or simply trying to find yourself again, you deserve support that actually fits your life. Our work together isn't about quick fixes—it's about building real resilience, uncovering what's holding you back, and creating lasting change. Clients describe me as warm, direct, and deeply invested in their growth. If you're ready to stop surviving and start thriving, I'm here to walk that path with you.
(614) 683-4550 View (614) 683-4550
Photo of Kristina N Hamler, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Kristina N Hamler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
2 Endorsed
Perrysburg, OH 43551
As an Army Vet I am passionate about working with active military, veterans, and first responders.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed with emotional reactions that seem to come up quickly and out of no where? Have you tried multiple therapies that have been unsuccessful in the past? Do you constantly feel like there is no one who can understand what you are going through? Whether you are experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, or a mood disorder, I can deeply understand how this is impacting your everyday life.
As an Army Vet I am passionate about working with active military, veterans, and first responders.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed with emotional reactions that seem to come up quickly and out of no where? Have you tried multiple therapies that have been unsuccessful in the past? Do you constantly feel like there is no one who can understand what you are going through? Whether you are experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, or a mood disorder, I can deeply understand how this is impacting your everyday life.
(567) 587-1597 View (567) 587-1597
Photo of Madison Chizmar, Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Madison Chizmar
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I currently see Ohio clients via Telehealth at Impact Counseling Solutions! We will set collaborative goals that you feel are sustainable and realistic. I am not here to force anything. I am interested in walking beside you to help you navigate the tough stuff in life and create lasting change.
I currently see Ohio clients via Telehealth at Impact Counseling Solutions! We will set collaborative goals that you feel are sustainable and realistic. I am not here to force anything. I am interested in walking beside you to help you navigate the tough stuff in life and create lasting change.
(614) 333-1646 View (614) 333-1646
Photo of Emily Bonawitz, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC
Emily Bonawitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a multi-state licensed clinician in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New Hampshire, I am dedicated to helping individuals regain their footing during life's hardest moments. Whether you are healing from trauma, breaking free from addiction, or managing daily stress, I leverage my deep clinical experience to guide you through tough transitions and challenging chapters.
As a multi-state licensed clinician in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New Hampshire, I am dedicated to helping individuals regain their footing during life's hardest moments. Whether you are healing from trauma, breaking free from addiction, or managing daily stress, I leverage my deep clinical experience to guide you through tough transitions and challenging chapters.
(380) 207-2040 View (380) 207-2040
Photo of Tiffany Swanson, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Tiffany Swanson
Counselor, MA, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Welcome! Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in your current situation? I am here to help you navigate through life's challenges and support you in finding clarity and peace. With a warm, empathetic approach, I strive to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Welcome! Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in your current situation? I am here to help you navigate through life's challenges and support you in finding clarity and peace. With a warm, empathetic approach, I strive to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
(380) 208-0305 View (380) 208-0305
Photo of Sandy Kurka, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC-S
Sandy Kurka
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC-S
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! With over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I offer a collaborative and respectful therapeutic space where you can feel empowered to be your authentic self. I hold a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and am currently All But Dissertation (ABD) in the Counselor Education and Supervision doctoral program at the University of Akron.
Welcome! With over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I offer a collaborative and respectful therapeutic space where you can feel empowered to be your authentic self. I hold a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and am currently All But Dissertation (ABD) in the Counselor Education and Supervision doctoral program at the University of Akron.
(330) 302-2029 View (330) 302-2029
Photo of Michael Hastilow, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Michael Hastilow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Columbus, OH 43220
Life can be an unpredictable adventure. It will have moments of triumph where we feel amazing and hopeful. But it will also have moments of failure and defeat where we feel hopeless. These are the moments when reaching out for help and compassion can make all the difference. I would be honored to be one of the helping hands you turn to in your time of need.
Life can be an unpredictable adventure. It will have moments of triumph where we feel amazing and hopeful. But it will also have moments of failure and defeat where we feel hopeless. These are the moments when reaching out for help and compassion can make all the difference. I would be honored to be one of the helping hands you turn to in your time of need.
(614) 660-5494 x121001 View (614) 660-5494 x121001
Photo of Zachary Spoon, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Zachary Spoon
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
4 Endorsed
Troy, OH 45373
Most people who reach out for therapy feel overwhelmed, stuck, or tired of the same patterns playing out in their life or relationships. On the surface, things may look fine, but internally something feels off. You might feel anxious, disconnected, or unsure why you keep reacting the way you do. I’m Zac Spoon, a licensed professional clinical counselor in Troy, Ohio. A lot of what we struggle with takes shape in relationships, and healing often happens there too. In our work, we slow things down and make sense of these patterns so they don’t keep repeating.
Most people who reach out for therapy feel overwhelmed, stuck, or tired of the same patterns playing out in their life or relationships. On the surface, things may look fine, but internally something feels off. You might feel anxious, disconnected, or unsure why you keep reacting the way you do. I’m Zac Spoon, a licensed professional clinical counselor in Troy, Ohio. A lot of what we struggle with takes shape in relationships, and healing often happens there too. In our work, we slow things down and make sense of these patterns so they don’t keep repeating.
(937) 882-5081 View (937) 882-5081
Photo of Matt McTeague, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Matt McTeague
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43206
"Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom," Viktor Frankl. Everything that life throws at us can be overwhelming. Having a person to talk to in a safe, non judgmental space is important for maintaining overall wellness. Making the decision to seek help is a huge step and very empowering, congratulations!
"Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom," Viktor Frankl. Everything that life throws at us can be overwhelming. Having a person to talk to in a safe, non judgmental space is important for maintaining overall wellness. Making the decision to seek help is a huge step and very empowering, congratulations!
(380) 800-5895 View (380) 800-5895
Photo of Joe Earl, Counselor, LPCC
Joe Earl
Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I work with individuals who want to grow beyond where they are now—both personally and in their relationships. By approaching issues from spiritual, mental, and physical perspectives, together we build an understanding of why we think the way we do and develop strategies to modify thought patterns, improve communication, and foster personal growth.
I work with individuals who want to grow beyond where they are now—both personally and in their relationships. By approaching issues from spiritual, mental, and physical perspectives, together we build an understanding of why we think the way we do and develop strategies to modify thought patterns, improve communication, and foster personal growth.
(419) 871-4906 View (419) 871-4906
Photo of Dr. Brittany L Collins, Counselor, LPCC
Dr. Brittany L Collins
Counselor, LPCC
Moraine, OH 45439
I’m Dr. Brittany L. Collins, a licensed professional clinical counselor, certified mental performance consultant, and counselor educator with a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision. I work with adolescents and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, identity concerns, and high-performance pressure. I have experience working in diverse settings, including private practice, college counseling, athletics departments, schools, outpatient, and residential treatment settings.
I’m Dr. Brittany L. Collins, a licensed professional clinical counselor, certified mental performance consultant, and counselor educator with a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision. I work with adolescents and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, identity concerns, and high-performance pressure. I have experience working in diverse settings, including private practice, college counseling, athletics departments, schools, outpatient, and residential treatment settings.
(937) 589-4068 View (937) 589-4068
Photo of Gillian Hicks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Gillian Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
1 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
I work with people who feel stuck in patterns they do not want to repeat, whether that involves anxiety, relationship conflict, or old experiences that still affect them. Many clients come in feeling overwhelmed, rigid, or disconnected and want a space to slow down and make sense of what is going on.
I work with people who feel stuck in patterns they do not want to repeat, whether that involves anxiety, relationship conflict, or old experiences that still affect them. Many clients come in feeling overwhelmed, rigid, or disconnected and want a space to slow down and make sense of what is going on.
(380) 246-7553 View (380) 246-7553
Photo of Georgette Ellen Comisar - Georgette Comisar, Inc., Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Georgette Comisar, Inc.
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Cincinnati, OH 45226
When life feels overwhelming or uncertain, therapy can be a powerful tool to help you feel grounded, capable, and supported. Whether you're navigating change, managing anxiety, or looking to build healthier relationships, I offer a warm, client-centered space where you can heal, grow, and build the skills that help you move forward.
When life feels overwhelming or uncertain, therapy can be a powerful tool to help you feel grounded, capable, and supported. Whether you're navigating change, managing anxiety, or looking to build healthier relationships, I offer a warm, client-centered space where you can heal, grow, and build the skills that help you move forward.
(513) 756-2199 View (513) 756-2199
Photo of Cody Arnett - Polaris Counseling Group, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Polaris Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Centerville, OH 45459
At Polaris Counseling Group, we work with individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from their sense of purpose. Many of our clients are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD or other major life transitions—seeking clarity, healing, and direction. They’re ready to better understand themselves and build healthier patterns in their relationships, emotions, and identity.
At Polaris Counseling Group, we work with individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from their sense of purpose. Many of our clients are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD or other major life transitions—seeking clarity, healing, and direction. They’re ready to better understand themselves and build healthier patterns in their relationships, emotions, and identity.
(513) 905-4491 View (513) 905-4491
Photo of Aneesa E. Bhimani-Trimble, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S
Aneesa E. Bhimani-Trimble
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S
2 Endorsed
Springboro, OH 45066
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by expectations, responsibilities, relationships, or stress and has difficulty finding space to care for themselves. They may be navigating anxiety, burnout, life transitions, or professional stress, especially in school or helping professions. They want greater clarity, steadiness, and confidence in themselves and their direction. Together, we explore how relationships, environments, and expectations contribute to stress while building healthier boundaries, practical coping strategies, and a stronger sense of self.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by expectations, responsibilities, relationships, or stress and has difficulty finding space to care for themselves. They may be navigating anxiety, burnout, life transitions, or professional stress, especially in school or helping professions. They want greater clarity, steadiness, and confidence in themselves and their direction. Together, we explore how relationships, environments, and expectations contribute to stress while building healthier boundaries, practical coping strategies, and a stronger sense of self.
(937) 795-8191 View (937) 795-8191

See more therapy options for Union 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.