First Responder Families

First responder families face unique challenges due to the demanding and often unpredictable nature of their loved one's job. The stress, unpredictable long hours, odd shift times, and exposure to traumatic events can significantly impact the emotional and psychological well-being of both the first responder, their spouse/partner, and their family members. Therapy offers vital support to navigate these complexities and maintain a healthy, balanced family life.

Therapy can help.

Family sitting in forest, wearing denim jackets, holding hands, surrounded by trees and foliage.

Feeling Disconnected, Numb, distant?

Dr. Cristal Lopez grew up in a first responder family, has close friends, and a partner in the field, giving her a deep, personal understanding of the unique challenges and sacrifices that come with this line of work.

With extensive training in family therapy and experience working with both children and adults, Dr. Lopez is uniquely equipped to help first responder families navigate every level of stress and emotional strain. Her real-world experiences, combined with professional expertise, allow her to provide compassionate, tailored care. You don’t have to face these challenges alone.

  • children of first responders

    Is your child wondering when "mommy" or "daddy" will be home? Do they not understand why their parent is always gone, even on important days like birthdays/holidays? Maybe they are worrying about their parents safety?

    Children of first responders face unique challenges due to the demanding and unpredictable nature of their parent’s job. The stress, frequent absences, and exposure to risks can deeply impact a child's social, emotional, and behavioral well-being. You probably first noticed the impact of this job through your child's worsening behavior. Here’s how therapy can help:

    - Vicarious Trauma & Trauma Needs Assessment

    - Evidence Based Treatment for Vicarious Trauma

    - Skills to Strengthen Parent-Child Relationship

    - Support in Explaining the Job to Children

    - Address Behavioral Issues Associated with Parental Absence and Stressors

    - Create Routine & Stability

  • spouse/partner of the first responder

    Feeling anxious about the call they just received? Spending another holiday alone? Feeling overwhelmed about family and friends asking where your partner or spouse is? Did you just get another text saying, "I'll be home late again"?

    You are not alone. I completely understand what you’re going through. The demands of this job aren't easy and it impacts the partner/spouse just as much as it does the first responder. As a psychologist, fiancée of a first responder, and someone who grew up in a first responder family, I genuinely empathize with you and I am here to support you. Here's how therapy can help:

    - Learn Coping Skills for Anxiety

    - Develop Understanding of Self and Values

    - Support for “Solo Parenting”

    - Learn How to Support Your First Responder

    - Improve Healthy Communication and Emotional Support

    - Learn to Advocate For Your Needs

  • the first responder

    Do you find yourself replaying a particular incident in your mind? Are you energetic and engaged during shifts, yet tired, distant, and irritable at home? Are you feeling numb and unable to enjoy life outside of your job? Do you feel like you're loosing yourself in this job?

    These are all common signs of burnout, stress, disconnection, and potential trauma. Being a first responder is so incredibly challenging and can easily overwhelm both you and those around you. Therapy can help you gain the essential skills necessary to balance work and life. This job does not define you—there is life outside of it. Here's how therapy can help:

    - Trauma and PTSD Assessment & Recovery

    - Evidence Based Treatment for PTSD

    - Critical Incident Debrief

    - Address Burnout, Manage Stress, & Set Boundaries

    - Learn How To Reconnect With Others

    - Improve Healthy Communication and Relationships

    - Maintain a Healthy Work-Life Balance

Let's Talk.