In addition to providing individual and group psychotherapy utilizing evidence-based modalities like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), I offer tailored interventions to address stress management, trauma recovery and relationship maintenance. I emphasize the importance of self-care and provide strategies for navigating transitions throughout a first responder's career, from promotions to retirement.
Moreover, I educate my clients on recognizing the signs of Post-Traumatic Stress, empowering them to identify intrusive thoughts, emotional detachment, relationship challenges and other symptoms commonly associated with trauma exposure. By fostering a supportive and understanding environment, I strive to promote resilience, coping skills and overall well-being among the first responder community and their families.
Throughout my career, I have actively sought opportunities to support first responders and public safety personnel. I volunteer as a therapist at the First Responder Support Network/West Coast Trauma Retreat and have served on the peer support team at the Marin County Sheriff's Office. I have gained invaluable insights into the mental health needs of those first responders. I also helped run the SF Firefighters Toy Program for 25 + years. I am a volunteer for The Honor Flight escorting veterans from WWII, Korea and Vietnam to Washington DC to visit the memorials.
My extensive training in Marriage and Family Therapy, along with my experience in trauma-informed care and crisis intervention, has equipped me with the necessary skills to address the complex and multifaceted issues faced by first responders and their families. I am passionate about providing evidence-based therapy modalities tailored to the unique needs of law enforcement professionals, with a focus on promoting resilience, coping skills and overall well-being.
I have a private practice located in Novato, where I see clients both in person and via teletherapy. I began my therapy career in 2016, under the supervision of Dr. Mark Kamena, and in September 2022, I was licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. My practice is dedicated to processing trauma.
Approximately ninety percent of my clientele consists of first responders, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and veterans. While the average number of clients I see may vary from week to week, I have the capacity to accommodate up to 40 first responders per week in individual therapy sessions.
High-Stress Environments: First responders often work in high-pressure situations where they are exposed to critical incidents, emergencies and life-threatening situations regularly. The constant exposure to stress can have significant psychological and physiological effects on their well-being.
Trauma Exposure: First responders frequently encounter traumatic events, such as accidents, violence and natural disasters, as part of their job duties. This exposure can lead to the development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or other mental health issues.
Shift Work and Irregular Hours: Many first responders work irregular shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays. This irregular schedule can disrupt sleep patterns, effect family life and contribute to feelings of fatigue and burnout.
High Risk of Injury or Death: First responders face a higher risk of injury or death while performing their duties compared to individuals in other professions. This constant threat to their safety can lead to heightened levels of stress and anxiety.
Pressure to Perform: First responders often operate in environments where split-second decisions can have life-altering consequences. They are expected to perform effectively under pressure, which can create additional stress and anxiety.
Unique Culture and Camaraderie: There is a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork among first responders, stemming from their shared experiences and the need to rely on each other in challenging situations. This culture can be both supportive and isolating, as it may be difficult for outsiders to understand the unique demands of the job.
Exposure to Critical Incidents: First responders are frequently exposed to critical incidents that may involve violence, injury or loss of life. These experiences can have long-lasting emotional and psychological effects, impacting their mental health and well-being.
Secondary Trauma: In addition to their own experiences, first responders may also experience secondary trauma or vicarious trauma from witnessing the suffering of others. This can further compound the emotional toll of their work.
Limited Support Resources: Despite the significant mental health challenges they face, first responders may have limited access to mental health resources and support services.
Stigma surrounding mental health issues within the profession can also discourage individuals from seeking help.
Impact on Relationships: The demands of the job, including long hours, irregular shifts, and exposure to trauma can strain personal relationships and family life for first responders. Balancing work responsibilities with family commitments can be challenging and may contribute to stress and conflict.
Understanding these differences is essential for providing effective support and interventions tailored to the unique needs of first responders and public safety employees. By recognizing and addressing the specific stressors and challenges they face, mental health professionals can help promote resilience, coping skills, and overall well-being within these communities.
Processing Trauma, CBT, Psychoeducation, EMDR.
I provide the following: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs related to the traumatic event. By restructuring these thoughts, clients can develop healthier coping strategies and reduce the impact of trauma-related symptoms.
Exposure Therapy: Exposure therapy involves gradually exposing clients to memories, thoughts, feelings, and situations related to the traumatic event in a safe and controlled environment. This exposure allows clients to process and desensitize themselves to the trauma, reducing its emotional power over time.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is therapeutic approach that helps clients process distressing memories and reframe negative beliefs associated with the trauma. Through bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or taps), clients can integrate these memories into their broader life narrative, reducing their emotional intensity.
Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Mindfulness techniques help clients develop present-moment awareness and acceptance of their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Mindfulness can be particularly helpful for managing trauma-related symptoms such as anxiety, hypervigilance, and emotional reactivity.
I am available for sessions during standard business hours from Monday to Friday. I strive to accommodate clients' needs by offering flexible scheduling options, including evening appointments and occasional availability on weekends. My priority is to ensure that clients have access to the support they need, even during non-traditional hours.
Yes, if someone is in crisis, particularly if they are experiencing suicidal ideation or feeling hopeless, I prioritize their immediate needs and make myself available with short notice. I understand the urgency and critical nature of providing support during such challenging times. Therefore, I am committed to adjusting my schedule to ensure that individuals in crisis receive the care and attention they require.
I have conducted Critical Incident Stress Debriefings (CISD) with law enforcement. In those sessions, I utilized the Mitchell Model to guide the process. The Mitchell Model, developed by Jeffrey T. Mitchell, is one of the earliest models of CISD and is widely used. It focuses on providing a structured approach to discussing the incident, understanding individual reactions, and providing support. The model typically involves several stages, including introduction, fact phase, thought phase, reaction phase, symptom phase, teaching phase, re-entry phase, and referral phase. It aims to facilitate communication, normalize responses, and provide education about stress reactions.
The International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF) provides another widely recognized model for CISD, known as the Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) model. It includes a range of interventions, not just debriefings, and emphasizes peer support and ongoing education. Both models have their strengths and can be effective in helping individuals cope with
the stress of critical incidents.
Meet Jill
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I offer specialized counseling services to first responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, veterans, dispatchers and their families. My interest in serving as a first responder therapist began to take shape in 2011, during my tenure at the Marin County Sheriff’s Office. In 2016, I began my therapy career under the expert supervision of Dr. Mark Kamena, ultimately culminating in my licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist in September 2022.
I own and operate a private practice in Novato and serve first responders in the State of California. I offer in-person and teletherapy appointments. Approximately ninety percent of my clientele consists of first responders and public safety professionals, highlighting my dedication to supporting those who serve on the front lines.
Drawing upon my extensive experience, I delve deep into the unique challenges faced by first responders and public safety employees. I identify the stark differences between these individuals and those outside of the profession, underscoring the high-stress environments, trauma exposure, irregular shift patterns and risk of injury or death inherent in their roles. I also acknowledge the pressure to perform, the cultural nuances within these organizations and the limited access to mental health resources often experienced by first responders.
