First Responders Therapists in Ashland, VA

Greg M Podolak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ashland, VA 23005
I work exclusively with First Responders and their spouses and families, offering a space where their unique experiences are understood and respected.
Since mid-2023, I’ve spearheaded the Law Enforcement Wellness Initiative, a program primarily focused on supporting patrol officers. Through regular ride-alongs, I build trust by experiencing their work firsthand, which allows me to provide real-time or follow-up support after critical incidents.
I work exclusively with First Responders and their spouses and families, offering a space where their unique experiences are understood and respected.
Since mid-2023, I’ve spearheaded the Law Enforcement Wellness Initiative, a program primarily focused on supporting patrol officers. Through regular ride-alongs, I build trust by experiencing their work firsthand, which allows me to provide real-time or follow-up support after critical incidents.
(804) 258-6475 View (804) 258-6475
Phil Russell
Resident in Counseling, MS, QMHP, RIC
2 Endorsed
Ashland, VA 23005
My ideal client can be a military veteran, a single parent working two jobs to make ends meet, a first responder, a business executive with decades of experience, or a college student working at the local breakfast cafe.
Healing from our psychological wounds is driven by learning to enact self-care, reframing conclusions about past trauma, and embracing corrective emotional experiences. I offer emotionally-focused, trauma-informed care with modalities designed to reorient those areas of the self that are psychologically disordered.
My ideal client can be a military veteran, a single parent working two jobs to make ends meet, a first responder, a business executive with decades of experience, or a college student working at the local breakfast cafe.
Healing from our psychological wounds is driven by learning to enact self-care, reframing conclusions about past trauma, and embracing corrective emotional experiences. I offer emotionally-focused, trauma-informed care with modalities designed to reorient those areas of the self that are psychologically disordered.
(804) 352-2750 View (804) 352-2750
Jenna Russell
Resident in Counseling, MS
2 Endorsed
Ashland, VA 23005
My educational background also equips me with a deeper cultural understanding of active duty military, veterans, and emergency responders.
Ideally, prospective clients view therapy as a collaborative process. They are ready to actively engage in working through their trauma, along with related symptoms of anxiety and depression. The main goal is to help make life’s challenges more manageable while also fostering post-traumatic growth.
My educational background also equips me with a deeper cultural understanding of active duty military, veterans, and emergency responders.
Ideally, prospective clients view therapy as a collaborative process. They are ready to actively engage in working through their trauma, along with related symptoms of anxiety and depression. The main goal is to help make life’s challenges more manageable while also fostering post-traumatic growth.
(804) 979-2036 View (804) 979-2036
Dominion Care - Teen and Adult Substance Use
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
We are committed to serving teens and adults from all backgrounds and treatment histories. Our mission is deeply rooted in meeting each client exactly where they are on their journey. Through a collaborative process, we focus on client-centered goal setting, providing the essential support and resources—whether in individual therapy, specialized group therapy, or a combination of both—to help you establish and attain your personal, self-directed recovery objectives. Dominion Care is dedicated to providing the unique care you need.
We are committed to serving teens and adults from all backgrounds and treatment histories. Our mission is deeply rooted in meeting each client exactly where they are on their journey. Through a collaborative process, we focus on client-centered goal setting, providing the essential support and resources—whether in individual therapy, specialized group therapy, or a combination of both—to help you establish and attain your personal, self-directed recovery objectives. Dominion Care is dedicated to providing the unique care you need.
(804) 251-3621 View (804) 251-3621

More Therapists Nearby

Cindy Gelber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help adults, couples, first responders, nurses, and high-stress professionals navigate emotional challenges, PTSD, substance use, and life transitions.
With over 25 years of experience, I help individuals, couples, and families navigate anxiety, trauma, addiction, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Therapy focuses on understanding patterns, building healthier coping strategies, supporting recovery, and creating meaningful change.
I help adults, couples, first responders, nurses, and high-stress professionals navigate emotional challenges, PTSD, substance use, and life transitions.
With over 25 years of experience, I help individuals, couples, and families navigate anxiety, trauma, addiction, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Therapy focuses on understanding patterns, building healthier coping strategies, supporting recovery, and creating meaningful change.
(727) 761-5685 View (727) 761-5685
Nikki Espil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, Veteran
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23173
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialize supporting those in high responsibility roles ( military, first responders, healthcare workers, business professionals, teachers).
You spend your life taking care of others; carrying responsibility, pressure, and expectations that rarely let up. It's served you well, but at a cost. As a mom, healthcare provider, Veteran (still in), and first-responder spouse, I GET it. If you’re ready to reclaim balance, purpose, and clarity, I’m here to guide you forward.
I also specialize supporting those in high responsibility roles ( military, first responders, healthcare workers, business professionals, teachers).
You spend your life taking care of others; carrying responsibility, pressure, and expectations that rarely let up. It's served you well, but at a cost. As a mom, healthcare provider, Veteran (still in), and first-responder spouse, I GET it. If you’re ready to reclaim balance, purpose, and clarity, I’m here to guide you forward.
(414) 279-0002 View (414) 279-0002
Safe Haven Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, CSC, NCC
8 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23235
Angela Waggoner works with first responders, helping professionals, and individuals navigating trauma, PTSD, burnout, anxiety, grief, and major life transitions.
Dr. Angela Waggoner specializes in trauma recovery, EMDR, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) intensives for first responders, helping professionals, and individuals impacted by trauma. She offers personalized virtual and in-person care to address PTSD, burnout, anxiety, grief, and life transitions.
Angela Waggoner works with first responders, helping professionals, and individuals navigating trauma, PTSD, burnout, anxiety, grief, and major life transitions.
Dr. Angela Waggoner specializes in trauma recovery, EMDR, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) intensives for first responders, helping professionals, and individuals impacted by trauma. She offers personalized virtual and in-person care to address PTSD, burnout, anxiety, grief, and life transitions.
(281) 712-2967 View (281) 712-2967
Catalyst Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CFRC
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23222
Accepting New Clients Catalyst Counseling is a group therapy practice serving clients in Virginia, DC, and Maryland. We help individuals, couples, and families get matched with the therapist on our team who best fits their needs, so you can begin care without long wait times.
Accepting New Clients Catalyst Counseling is a group therapy practice serving clients in Virginia, DC, and Maryland. We help individuals, couples, and families get matched with the therapist on our team who best fits their needs, so you can begin care without long wait times.
(571) 506-4086 View (571) 506-4086
Susan M Archer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Now Accepting New Clients! People also seek me out to work on trauma, grief, anger, mental health, life stresses. I treat people newly in recovery from substance use disorders whether it's the first time or after many attempts. treat first responder trauma. I can hear very traumatic events when needed. Whether you have a specific goal to address or need help sorting out the root of the problem we can work on it together. Most clients are glad to know that I have ideas, I listen, assess, and I know the process to get to the core issue. I like my clients to get support and assistance quickly on the way to the deeper solutions.
Now Accepting New Clients! People also seek me out to work on trauma, grief, anger, mental health, life stresses. I treat people newly in recovery from substance use disorders whether it's the first time or after many attempts. treat first responder trauma. I can hear very traumatic events when needed. Whether you have a specific goal to address or need help sorting out the root of the problem we can work on it together. Most clients are glad to know that I have ideas, I listen, assess, and I know the process to get to the core issue. I like my clients to get support and assistance quickly on the way to the deeper solutions.
(804) 413-9439 View (804) 413-9439
Stephanie Malozzi
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with veterans, first responders, executives, athletes, medical providers, creative professionals, and others navigating high-pressure lives.
I'm a licensed psychologist (since 2018) with a PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of Kansas. My work has largely been shaped by my experiences working at Veterans Affairs Medical Centers as a clinician and Military Sexual Trauma Coordinator as well as uniformed experience as the Chief of Behavioral Health in the Army National Guard.
I work with veterans, first responders, executives, athletes, medical providers, creative professionals, and others navigating high-pressure lives.
I'm a licensed psychologist (since 2018) with a PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of Kansas. My work has largely been shaped by my experiences working at Veterans Affairs Medical Centers as a clinician and Military Sexual Trauma Coordinator as well as uniformed experience as the Chief of Behavioral Health in the Army National Guard.
(804) 682-3968 View (804) 682-3968
Amanda Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, TCTSY-F
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with parents in the perinatal period, first responders, and people with complex trauma histories.
I’m certified in EMDR and Trauma-focused CBT, which have been shown in research to resolve PTSD. I've received specialized training in perinatal care and can help you navigate postpartum moods, a traumatic birth, or grief after a loss. I'm also trained in first responder cultures and can help you let go of difficult work events and find peace.
I specialize in working with parents in the perinatal period, first responders, and people with complex trauma histories.
I’m certified in EMDR and Trauma-focused CBT, which have been shown in research to resolve PTSD. I've received specialized training in perinatal care and can help you navigate postpartum moods, a traumatic birth, or grief after a loss. I'm also trained in first responder cultures and can help you let go of difficult work events and find peace.
(434) 510-8560 View (434) 510-8560
Erica Autry Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I love working with first responders, military, survivors of sexual violence, and individuals navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, self harm, and other unwanted behaviors.
I work best with clients who are ready to be challenged and are open to shifting long held perspectives. I have a down to earth approach and strive to create a warm, open and non- judgmental space for clients to explore their darkest places with curiosity and compassion.
I love working with first responders, military, survivors of sexual violence, and individuals navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, self harm, and other unwanted behaviors.
I work best with clients who are ready to be challenged and are open to shifting long held perspectives. I have a down to earth approach and strive to create a warm, open and non- judgmental space for clients to explore their darkest places with curiosity and compassion.
(706) 917-8853 View (706) 917-8853
Rebecca Henderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
For more than 20 years, I've had the privilege of helping people navigate life's challenges and discover strengths they didn't know they had. One quote has always guided my work: "You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them." — Maya Angelou. Seeking therapy is a courageous first step. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, facing relationship challenges, or simply ready for change, you don't have to do it alone. My goal is to provide a warm, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to move from simply surviving to truly thriving.
For more than 20 years, I've had the privilege of helping people navigate life's challenges and discover strengths they didn't know they had. One quote has always guided my work: "You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them." — Maya Angelou. Seeking therapy is a courageous first step. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, facing relationship challenges, or simply ready for change, you don't have to do it alone. My goal is to provide a warm, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to move from simply surviving to truly thriving.
(804) 634-4786 View (804) 634-4786
Samantha Lynn Wooldridge Felton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MA
Online Only
I am trauma informed,haveexperience working with military, first responders, law enforcement and their families.
My approach is to ensure each individual, couple/family has a unique experience that works best for their current situation. I use therapeutic methods to help people of all ages work through life's problems and heal emotional pain. As we work together, I will listen carefully and will begin helping you achieve your goals
I am trauma informed,haveexperience working with military, first responders, law enforcement and their families.
My approach is to ensure each individual, couple/family has a unique experience that works best for their current situation. I use therapeutic methods to help people of all ages work through life's problems and heal emotional pain. As we work together, I will listen carefully and will begin helping you achieve your goals
(804) 348-0519 View (804) 348-0519
Tabitha Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also focus on the first responders, corrections personnel, and returning citizens who experience unique stresses.
My holistic, person-centered approach addresses mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. I offer strategies for the issues life may present, integrating the healing power of nature, science, and evidence-based therapeutic techniques. I provide a safe inclusive space for clients to express themselves, achieve mental well-being, and develop coping mechanism
I also focus on the first responders, corrections personnel, and returning citizens who experience unique stresses.
My holistic, person-centered approach addresses mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. I offer strategies for the issues life may present, integrating the healing power of nature, science, and evidence-based therapeutic techniques. I provide a safe inclusive space for clients to express themselves, achieve mental well-being, and develop coping mechanism
(804) 445-8138 View (804) 445-8138
Natalia Iverson
Pre-Licensed Professional
5 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal clients are couples in high-stress, high-responsibility roles who feel disconnected, stuck in conflict, or struggling with intimacy. Many appear stable on the outside but experience distance, tension, or unresolved issues at home. They often come in wanting to improve communication, rebuild trust, and feel close again. I support them by helping identify patterns, slow down interactions, and create more effective ways of communicating. Together, we focus on restoring emotional and physical connection in a way that feels clear, practical, and sustainable.
My ideal clients are couples in high-stress, high-responsibility roles who feel disconnected, stuck in conflict, or struggling with intimacy. Many appear stable on the outside but experience distance, tension, or unresolved issues at home. They often come in wanting to improve communication, rebuild trust, and feel close again. I support them by helping identify patterns, slow down interactions, and create more effective ways of communicating. Together, we focus on restoring emotional and physical connection in a way that feels clear, practical, and sustainable.
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I additionally have specialized experience supporting first responders and correctional staff facing unique occupational trauma and burnout.
During therapy I support clients by providing a safe space to navigate challenging emotions (e.g., grief, depression, anxiety). I assist clients with navigating complex transitions by guiding them through identity shifts and life disruptions. I support those needing to unpack occupational trauma by addressing unique, high-stress work environments.
I additionally have specialized experience supporting first responders and correctional staff facing unique occupational trauma and burnout.
During therapy I support clients by providing a safe space to navigate challenging emotions (e.g., grief, depression, anxiety). I assist clients with navigating complex transitions by guiding them through identity shifts and life disruptions. I support those needing to unpack occupational trauma by addressing unique, high-stress work environments.
(804) 597-9153 View (804) 597-9153
Jeff Boss
Resident in Counseling, MS
2 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23113
Are you a first responder, active duty or military veteran tired of explaining your job to other therapists who just don’t seem to “get it
We'll work together on why these symptoms appear and develop a treatment plan to address them so you can rekindle your love of the job, strengthen your relationships, and develop a newfound sense of self with more self understanding and less shame and guilt.
Are you a first responder, active duty or military veteran tired of explaining your job to other therapists who just don’t seem to “get it
We'll work together on why these symptoms appear and develop a treatment plan to address them so you can rekindle your love of the job, strengthen your relationships, and develop a newfound sense of self with more self understanding and less shame and guilt.
(703) 643-4107 View (703) 643-4107
Advanced Trauma Recovery & Mental Healthcare, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Serves Area
Do you struggle with feeling triggered, relationship problems, flashbacks, nightmares, depression, avoidance, or anxiety? Our Psychologists are here to help you work through past trauma, abuse, critical incidents, adversity, and life threatening events that continue to negatively impact your life. We offer standard weekly or semi weekly therapy, as well as EMDR and Trauma Intensives, for PTSD and trauma related issues. Serving adolescents and adults.
Do you struggle with feeling triggered, relationship problems, flashbacks, nightmares, depression, avoidance, or anxiety? Our Psychologists are here to help you work through past trauma, abuse, critical incidents, adversity, and life threatening events that continue to negatively impact your life. We offer standard weekly or semi weekly therapy, as well as EMDR and Trauma Intensives, for PTSD and trauma related issues. Serving adolescents and adults.
(757) 792-8401 View (757) 792-8401
Daija Monroe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I specialize in working with women, young adults, adolescents, first responders, healthcare workers, and immigrants navigating life's most difficult moments.
Hi, I'm Daija Monroe, Licensed Professional Counselor and founder of Monroe Behavioral Insight Consulting. I'm so glad you're here and I want you to know that finding the courage to seek support is something to be proud of. I'm a Virginia-based therapist with over seven years of experience working with individuals across a wide range of life experiences and challenges. I have experience in community mental health, forensic mental health, crisis intervention, and school-based settings which means I bring a well-rounded, real-world understanding of how life, systems, and mental health intersect.
I specialize in working with women, young adults, adolescents, first responders, healthcare workers, and immigrants navigating life's most difficult moments.
Hi, I'm Daija Monroe, Licensed Professional Counselor and founder of Monroe Behavioral Insight Consulting. I'm so glad you're here and I want you to know that finding the courage to seek support is something to be proud of. I'm a Virginia-based therapist with over seven years of experience working with individuals across a wide range of life experiences and challenges. I have experience in community mental health, forensic mental health, crisis intervention, and school-based settings which means I bring a well-rounded, real-world understanding of how life, systems, and mental health intersect.
(804) 336-3356 View (804) 336-3356

See more therapy options for Ashland

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.