First Responders Therapists in Austin, TX
Talking things through with a kind, supportive therapist can be helpful for anyone. Whether you're dealing with something happening right now, working through a past experience, or just feeling overwhelmed by a lot of things at once, we can figure it out together.
Talking things through with a kind, supportive therapist can be helpful for anyone. Whether you're dealing with something happening right now, working through a past experience, or just feeling overwhelmed by a lot of things at once, we can figure it out together.
One of my most basic beliefs is in the human impulse to grow and heal. No matter how young or old, you have an inherent wisdom and countless times when you have persevered despite challenge. My job is to help you reconnect to your intuition, power and resourcefulness. Towards this end, I create a safe place for you to share your concerns, as well as your strengths and goals. I listen with compassion and without judgment. I see our work as collaborative and tailor my approach to meet your needs. Together we work as a team to shed new light on the challenges you are facing and create a vision for the future.
One of my most basic beliefs is in the human impulse to grow and heal. No matter how young or old, you have an inherent wisdom and countless times when you have persevered despite challenge. My job is to help you reconnect to your intuition, power and resourcefulness. Towards this end, I create a safe place for you to share your concerns, as well as your strengths and goals. I listen with compassion and without judgment. I see our work as collaborative and tailor my approach to meet your needs. Together we work as a team to shed new light on the challenges you are facing and create a vision for the future.
I deeply respect the strength it takes to keep showing up, and I understand the unique challenges and culture that first responders and their loved ones navigate every day.
My approach is warm, steady, and empowering. I integrate evidence-based therapies—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and trauma-informed care—with genuine presence, patience, and connection. Because while techniques matter, healing often begins with feeling safe, understood, and supported.
I deeply respect the strength it takes to keep showing up, and I understand the unique challenges and culture that first responders and their loved ones navigate every day.
My approach is warm, steady, and empowering. I integrate evidence-based therapies—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and trauma-informed care—with genuine presence, patience, and connection. Because while techniques matter, healing often begins with feeling safe, understood, and supported.
Jennifer Macchiaverna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, EMDR-, Trained
7 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
Waitlist for new clients - - - Have you been feeling constrained by expectations that no longer fit, questioning who you are beneath the roles you carry, or struggling in relationships or family dynamics that feel draining or confusing? You may notice pulling away from others, getting stuck in self-critical thought patterns, or seeking reassurance or distraction to manage what feels overwhelming inside. These responses make sense—they are adaptive strategies shaped by early relational experiences. When they begin to limit authenticity and choice, recognizing this can open the door to meaningful change.
Waitlist for new clients - - - Have you been feeling constrained by expectations that no longer fit, questioning who you are beneath the roles you carry, or struggling in relationships or family dynamics that feel draining or confusing? You may notice pulling away from others, getting stuck in self-critical thought patterns, or seeking reassurance or distraction to manage what feels overwhelming inside. These responses make sense—they are adaptive strategies shaped by early relational experiences. When they begin to limit authenticity and choice, recognizing this can open the door to meaningful change.
Do you work in public safety, the military, or another high stress profession?
With over 30 years of experience, I provide evidence-based therapy for trauma, mood disorders, substance use, and high stress occupations. Treatment integrates CBT, trauma focused approaches, family systems work, and culturally sensitive care to support emotional regulation, resilience, and long-term stability.
Do you work in public safety, the military, or another high stress profession?
With over 30 years of experience, I provide evidence-based therapy for trauma, mood disorders, substance use, and high stress occupations. Treatment integrates CBT, trauma focused approaches, family systems work, and culturally sensitive care to support emotional regulation, resilience, and long-term stability.
My top three specialty areas are trauma/PTSD, first responders, and addiction.
Hello! My name is Justine Vaughn, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and 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, and substance use. I am currently trained in EMDR, CBT, CPT, DBT, and other therapy modalities. I would be honored to work with you along this journey.
My top three specialty areas are trauma/PTSD, first responders, and addiction.
Hello! My name is Justine Vaughn, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, and 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, and substance use. I am currently trained in EMDR, CBT, CPT, DBT, and other therapy modalities. I would be honored to work with you along this journey.
As an LPC in Texas with over 19 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to guiding individuals and families on their journey toward healing and personal growth. My passion lies in creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and emotions. The prospect of therapy can feel daunting, and I strive to minimize that fear by fostering an open and collaborative atmosphere. Together, we will work on skills that empower you to build a more fulfilling life. Let's embark on this journey together and discover the strength you possess to transform your life.
As an LPC in Texas with over 19 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to guiding individuals and families on their journey toward healing and personal growth. My passion lies in creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and emotions. The prospect of therapy can feel daunting, and I strive to minimize that fear by fostering an open and collaborative atmosphere. Together, we will work on skills that empower you to build a more fulfilling life. Let's embark on this journey together and discover the strength you possess to transform your life.
I see English and Spanish speaking adults, teens, and children (6+) needing support through a holistic, empathetic, empowering approach. Connecting and collaborating with a source of unbiased support can be life-changing, a tangible path to healing.
Associate-level counselors seeking provision of clinical supervision welcome.
I see English and Spanish speaking adults, teens, and children (6+) needing support through a holistic, empathetic, empowering approach. Connecting and collaborating with a source of unbiased support can be life-changing, a tangible path to healing.
Associate-level counselors seeking provision of clinical supervision welcome.
Through telehealth, I work with medical professionals and others in high-stress, high-responsibility roles, including healthcare workers, first responders, therapists, educators, and caregivers.
I work with adults experiencing the cumulative effects of stress and trauma. Often there isn’t one defining incident, but ongoing exposure to pressure, responsibility, and emotionally demanding situations. This often shows up as exhaustion, difficulty resting or shutting off, irritability, emotional numbness, or feeling disconnected from yourself and others.
Through telehealth, I work with medical professionals and others in high-stress, high-responsibility roles, including healthcare workers, first responders, therapists, educators, and caregivers.
I work with adults experiencing the cumulative effects of stress and trauma. Often there isn’t one defining incident, but ongoing exposure to pressure, responsibility, and emotionally demanding situations. This often shows up as exhaustion, difficulty resting or shutting off, irritability, emotional numbness, or feeling disconnected from yourself and others.
With a background as a high-performing D1 athlete, experience in law enforcement, support for military families and the expectations of the corporate world I bring a unique perspective to therapy.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling to regain your motivation? Whether you're navigating emotional challenges, recovering from life's setbacks, or an athlete working through injury and performance blocks - you don't have to go it alone. Therapy can be your path to clarity, resilience, and growth. I offer flexible hours including both traditional and non-traditional slots to fit your busy schedule making it easier for you to prioritize your mental well-being.
With a background as a high-performing D1 athlete, experience in law enforcement, support for military families and the expectations of the corporate world I bring a unique perspective to therapy.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling to regain your motivation? Whether you're navigating emotional challenges, recovering from life's setbacks, or an athlete working through injury and performance blocks - you don't have to go it alone. Therapy can be your path to clarity, resilience, and growth. I offer flexible hours including both traditional and non-traditional slots to fit your busy schedule making it easier for you to prioritize your mental well-being.
Having navigated the complexities of military life, the adjustments of living as an amputee, and the stressfulness of first responder duties, I am well-equipped to empathize with and support individuals dealing with a multitude of challenges.
I am a compassionate therapist specializing in acute stress, trauma, and grief. With expertise in EMDR, CBT, and mindfulness-based techniques, I offer a holistic approach to healing. My empathetic guidance fosters resilience and empowers clients to navigate life's challenges with renewed strength and clarity. We will embark on a healing journey together.
Having navigated the complexities of military life, the adjustments of living as an amputee, and the stressfulness of first responder duties, I am well-equipped to empathize with and support individuals dealing with a multitude of challenges.
I am a compassionate therapist specializing in acute stress, trauma, and grief. With expertise in EMDR, CBT, and mindfulness-based techniques, I offer a holistic approach to healing. My empathetic guidance fosters resilience and empowers clients to navigate life's challenges with renewed strength and clarity. We will embark on a healing journey together.
With 20+ years of experience, I specialize in helping clients heal from trauma, manage chronic illness, reduce anxiety and depression, and supporting first responders, educators and veterans.
I strive to create a space where you can feel heard and supported every step of the way. Treatment plans will address concerns from a holistic view, ensuring the best outcome. We'll explore ways to move forward that feel right to you. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space to work through your concerns.
With 20+ years of experience, I specialize in helping clients heal from trauma, manage chronic illness, reduce anxiety and depression, and supporting first responders, educators and veterans.
I strive to create a space where you can feel heard and supported every step of the way. Treatment plans will address concerns from a holistic view, ensuring the best outcome. We'll explore ways to move forward that feel right to you. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space to work through your concerns.
I am so thankful to have spent my life living and learning in Texas, while working in several burnout-prone settings, including the Houston Fire Department and the Texas Medical Center.
Feeling stressed, stuck, or just plain overwhelmed? Let’s talk (no couch required!). I believe that finding a therapist who is the right fit for you is the most important part of the process. If you’re looking to heal from traumatic experiences, explore your interpersonal relationships, and clarify your life’s values, I might be the right fit for you. I have been trained in a range of evidence-based, short-term trauma and depression therapy approaches, including Cognitive Processing Therapy and Behavioral Activation.
I am so thankful to have spent my life living and learning in Texas, while working in several burnout-prone settings, including the Houston Fire Department and the Texas Medical Center.
Feeling stressed, stuck, or just plain overwhelmed? Let’s talk (no couch required!). I believe that finding a therapist who is the right fit for you is the most important part of the process. If you’re looking to heal from traumatic experiences, explore your interpersonal relationships, and clarify your life’s values, I might be the right fit for you. I have been trained in a range of evidence-based, short-term trauma and depression therapy approaches, including Cognitive Processing Therapy and Behavioral Activation.
I also support first responders, families, & women navigating these systems.
Are you feeling stuck in patterns of stress, addiction, or conflict that seem to follow you no matter how hard you try to move forward? Many of the men and families I work with are carrying the weight of trauma, relationship strain, or the pressure of navigating systems that can feel overwhelming and isolating. If you’re looking for a space where you can be understood, supported, and guided toward meaningful change, you don’t have to do this alone.
I also support first responders, families, & women navigating these systems.
Are you feeling stuck in patterns of stress, addiction, or conflict that seem to follow you no matter how hard you try to move forward? Many of the men and families I work with are carrying the weight of trauma, relationship strain, or the pressure of navigating systems that can feel overwhelming and isolating. If you’re looking for a space where you can be understood, supported, and guided toward meaningful change, you don’t have to do this alone.
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.
After 20 years in EMS, I have a unique perspective on mental health for first responders and those suffering from medical conditions.
You don’t have to explain everything from the beginning here. Whether you’re a first responder carrying what you’ve seen, someone living with chronic illness, or navigating life as a neurodivergent individual, you deserve a space where you are understood without judgment. I specialize in working with people who are used to pushing through, holding it together, and showing up for everyone else—even when it’s costing them.
After 20 years in EMS, I have a unique perspective on mental health for first responders and those suffering from medical conditions.
You don’t have to explain everything from the beginning here. Whether you’re a first responder carrying what you’ve seen, someone living with chronic illness, or navigating life as a neurodivergent individual, you deserve a space where you are understood without judgment. I specialize in working with people who are used to pushing through, holding it together, and showing up for everyone else—even when it’s costing them.
Notice a lot of profiles here listed that they specialize in almost everything? I know what I do and focus at being good at it. Your time, energy and wellness is too important to me not to be a specialist. What do I do? Trauma. Big T and Little T.
Notice a lot of profiles here listed that they specialize in almost everything? I know what I do and focus at being good at it. Your time, energy and wellness is too important to me not to be a specialist. What do I do? Trauma. Big T and Little T.
If you are looking at this page, you are ready for a change. Life can get very heavy at times and it helps to have extra support to get started on our way to healing. Book with me by clicking on my webpage and let's get started.
If you are looking at this page, you are ready for a change. Life can get very heavy at times and it helps to have extra support to get started on our way to healing. Book with me by clicking on my webpage and let's get started.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, leaving you stuck in self-doubt, anxiety, or past trauma. You may struggle with PTSD, panic attacks, depression, or relationship difficulties, unsure how to move forward. Your goal is to break free from these patterns, build self-esteem, and find lasting relief. You want real solutions—not just temporary fixes—to quiet your inner critic, heal from distressing experiences, and create a more fulfilling life. I take a direct, solution-focused approach to help you address the core issues holding you back and guide you toward lasting change.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, leaving you stuck in self-doubt, anxiety, or past trauma. You may struggle with PTSD, panic attacks, depression, or relationship difficulties, unsure how to move forward. Your goal is to break free from these patterns, build self-esteem, and find lasting relief. You want real solutions—not just temporary fixes—to quiet your inner critic, heal from distressing experiences, and create a more fulfilling life. I take a direct, solution-focused approach to help you address the core issues holding you back and guide you toward lasting change.
With a focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, pre-marital and couples counseling, teen and adolescent support, life transitions, and military-related mental health, I'm committed to providing compassionate and holistic care to help you thrive.
Clients can expect to leave sessions with a renewed sense of clarity, resilience, and empowerment. Together, we work towards achieving specific goals tailored to their needs, whether it's overcoming obstacles, improving relationships, or finding inner peace.
With a focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, pre-marital and couples counseling, teen and adolescent support, life transitions, and military-related mental health, I'm committed to providing compassionate and holistic care to help you thrive.
Clients can expect to leave sessions with a renewed sense of clarity, resilience, and empowerment. Together, we work towards achieving specific goals tailored to their needs, whether it's overcoming obstacles, improving relationships, or finding inner peace.
See more therapy options for Austin
Nearby First Responders Therapists Searches for Austin
- Bastrop
- Buda
- Cedar Park
- Dripping Springs
- Georgetown
- Hutto
- Kyle
- Lakeway
- Leander
- Pflugerville
- Round Rock
- West Lake Hills
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.