Vetted Providers for First Responders
The DFW First Responders Support Network provides support to local North Texas first responders and their families through outreach and connection to mental health services. We have a vision of a connected network of services and providers throughout the DFW area to support the mental health and wellbeing of our first responders and their families. Officially launched in 2023, the network has brought together peer support professionals, culturally competent mental health providers, and first responder-oriented support organizations to better serve the first responder population in Dallas-Fort Worth.

Click on a county below to see a list of vetted providers serving your region.
WHY:
Firefighters, police officers, and paramedics respond to intense and challenging emergencies every shift. These incidents often weigh heavily on the mind of each first responder. There is a growing demand for mental health support for first responders. Tragically, suicide rates among first responders is growing. Several departments in North Texas have been impacted by off-duty suicides. As an organization that supports first responders on a daily basis, we cannot sit by and let our heroes suffer. We decided to start this network to better connect mental health professionals with first responders who desperately need them.
FOR FIRST RESPONDERS:
We have a vetted list of culturally competent mental health providers and trauma-based counselors ready and willing to speak with you. Many of them work exclusively with first responders. Some are even prior first responders themselves. The professionals listed below can be incredible resources for you.

Jason Allen
Jason Allen is a Licensed Professional Counselor focusing on trauma counseling, individual and marriage/family relationships. As a former police officer and military veteran, Jason brings a unique blend to the therapeutic process and his understanding of trauma and struggles client’s go through. Jason also has several professional certifications including Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) –Master ART Clinician, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Jason works with Local and Federal Agencies throughout the DFW Metroplex.

Sarah Ann Banis, MSW, LCSW-S, QMHP, CSMCC
Sarah Ann is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Approved Supervisor. Her desire to serve the first responder and military community stems from a life of lived experiences. Sarah’s dad retired from the San Antonio Fire Department after 24 years of service and he is also a veteran. Sarah’s sister currently serves in the Army. Sarah’s husband is also a combat veteran, retired from the Army. From a young age, she was taught to be a servant leader, to always take care of those who selfishly serve others. Being involved in the first responder and veteran community has allowed her to share her experiences with others.

Mark Chapman
Mark Chapman, LCSW, LCDC, is certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and is professionally trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) by the Strong Star Training Initiative. Mark has been working in the mental health field for more than 30 years and is passionate about helping individuals who are suffering after experiencing trauma, struggling with substance abuse, and dealing with life setbacks to include anxiety and depression. Through his work with the Department of Defense, and later with soldiers at Ft. Hood, Mark became focused on serving our veterans and first responders. Mark is in network with Medicare, BCBS, and Tricare.

Leah Cook
I’m Leah Cook Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor – here to guide you through life’s most complex and difficult matters. I truly care about my patients’ well-being and strive to provide top of the line counseling and psychological services catered to their needs. I began working in the counseling field in a hospital setting, learning directly from the world renowned Dr. Colin Ross. Through my work, I learned how to build a strong rapport with those affected by trauma and how to communicate hope in some of the darkest spots in their lives. The experience lead me to be curious and tenacious in my desire to help others through counseling. Not only did I work as a therapist individually with clients, additionally, I lead groups, developed program curriculum, supervised counseling students and interns, and provided community and hospital education as the director of the trauma unit. When I began private practice, I further developed my skills to include EMDR and completed my doctorate in 2021. I take pride in helping and educating families, counselors and clients who are first responders.
Since 2014, I have provided a number of specialized therapeutic services including EMDR, Trauma Model informed therapy, motivational interviewing, upon request Christian based therapy and other modes of expressive therapies to those struggling with depression,
anxiety, substance use disorders, stillbirth, infertility, codependency, family dysfunction, childhood emotional neglect, trauma, burnout and helpers fatigue. My clients include professional counselors, first responders, first responders’ spouses, trauma survivors, professional athletes and their family members, and various other professionals. Get in touch with me today for more information.

Wendy Copeland
Wendy Copeland, MA, LPC, CIRT, CCTP, ICP is a licensed professional counselor, Certified EMDR Therapist, and IASIS Micro Current Neurofeedback provider located in McKinney, Texas. Wendy serves individuals exposed to adverse and traumatic experiences, including repetitive exposure to critical incidents. She helps people release from pathogenic memories that wreak havoc, trapped in the brain, body, and nervous system. She helps those who endlessly run into the battle, to recover from the battle, including: first responders, dispatchers, police, and fire so they can return to their lives and occupation, with resiliency and wholeness.

Lea Ann Crawford
Lea Ann Crawford is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) located in Flower Mound, TX. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and specializes in treating adults who have experienced trauma, both single incident and repeated exposure. Lea Ann has a passion for working with police, firefighters, paramedics, dispatchers, and others in high stress careers. She has worked closely with members of law enforcement as a part of a multidisciplinary team dealing with crimes against children. Her own personal experiences as a law enforcement spouse help Lea Ann understand the unique culture and challenges that come with a career in these fields. These experiences also help her relate to and assist in navigating the special challenges of their families. Lea Ann sees clients in person in Flower Mound or virtually across the DFW area and is in network with most major insurance companies.

Matthew Drumm
Hello, my name is Matthew Drumm, I’m a licensed counselor, retired police officer and US Army veteran. Trauma occurs due to many reasons such as our occupation, abusive past, or a single incident that was physically or emotionally damaging such as a vehicle accident, violent calls for service, incidents where ourselves, co-workers or others are injured or killed. We can also accumulate trauma over time, historically we’ve been taught to stuff these events and feelings down and drive on. At some point this becomes too much. I can work with you by going back through the event or multiple events and learning to lessen the impact on your daily life. I’ve experienced PTSD, depression, anxiety and even being suicidal. I’ve also seen what overcoming it can bring; peace, healing, happiness, renewed purpose and strength. It is my privilege to walk beside you.

Brittany Duarte
I am a multi-state licensed marriage and family therapist, EMDR trained, certified sex therapy informed professional, and currently in a graduate program for sex therapy. I have been in the mental health field for over 10 years working with teens, adults, and couples to help them heal from the trauma of their past and work towards their desired life.
I graduated with a Masters degree in counseling psychology from Argosy University in 2012. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Philosophy from University of San Diego. I have experience working in community based mental health services, inpatient, outpatient, justice involved settings, group homes, and serving on a community based collaboration with law enforcement to assess mental health crises.

Marianne DuMond
Dr. Marianne DuMond has alphabet soup after her last name – EdD, LPC-S, EMDR Certified, CFRC, CCTP – a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, Certified First Responder Counselor, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. When she was 16 years old she was in a motorcycle wreck with multiple brain contusions, paralysis on the left side, coma for 1½ months, in the hospital for 3½ months, and had to relearn everything. “It was in the 70’s so there was a lot of self-medication going on afterwards and I had no idea that I was busily giving myself acquired brain injury as well”. Between then and now there has been hell and high water along the way, but she is certain if she had not been through all of that she would not be capable of doing the work she does now. “The Good Lord had plans for me and I would gladly go through it all over again to be where I am now”. She has worked with First Responders, Veterans, their family members on PTS (no D, it is only a disorder for classification purposes and billing, it is a natural response to unnatural situations), depression, anxiety, moral injury, anger management, self-medication, TBI, and more. “We make the diagnosis, submit the paperwork, throw it in the trash and treat the person”. She developed group treatment protocol for participants with self-medication issues in the Tarrant County Veterans Treatment Court Program and the Tarrant County Public Service Employees Treatment Court Program.
I firmly believe that men and women who serve our local communities and nation have the strengths and capabilities to work through the problems they face. Sometimes ‘words just don’t work’ and my approach builds upon integrated forms of counseling and creative expression. We work on Re-, my favorite word in the English language – rebuild, renew, reestablish, recreate, reinvent, etc. It is my covenant to be with you in your moment of need with all that I am as a counselor, a human being, and an artist. Together we will work to create anew from the past, to rebuild your life with all the self-respect and self-worth that you deserve. This is the path I was led to follow, and as such, it is my heartfelt promise to help you help yourself. Deep within my heart I know this is the reason I survived all the muck and mire in days gone by: to be here with you in this moment. I would gladly go through it all over again to fulfill this part of my journey. I am just a visitor in your life and I pray with everything that I am that you will find our time worthwhile.

Andreanna Duron
Andreanna Duron is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who provides individual counseling in Grapevine and online for adults 18+. She is certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) as a Master ART trained clinician. Andreanna has experience working for the Dallas County Crisis Line and providing mental health evaluations in the community. Her goal as a therapist is to provide each client with a non-judgemental space to process and navigate challenges. Andreanna has experience providing services to first responders and veterans.

Richard Godoy
Richard Godoy has been the Victim Services Coordinator for the City of Denton Police Department since 1997. He serves as the department’s crime victim’s liaison with the State of Texas Attorney General’s Crime Victims Compensation Department, and is the mental health professional for the Denton Area Critical Incident Stress Management Team. Richard works with police and fire department personnel who have been exposed to traumatic incidents by providing Critical Incident Stress Management services (CISM). He holds a Master Peace Officer certification, is certified as a Mental Health Officer, and is also a certified police instructor.

KC Holton
KC Holton, LCSW has over 35 years of Social Work and Criminal Justice experience. She has been a therapist in private practice for 6 years and is trained in EMDR and Brainspotting, which are both trauma therapies. She is also trained in the Gottman method of Marriage Therapy. KC retired from law enforcement after 25 years with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, where she held a variety of positions such as a Senior District Parole Officer, Halfway House Officer Team Lead, and Administrative Hearing Officer for the Board of Pardons and Parole. She worked closely with numerous local, State, and Federal law enforcement agencies, along with court personnel, Firefighters, and EMTS. KC has worked with survivors of sexual trauma and is an accomplished speaker and trainer. She graduated from TCU with a BS in Social Work and Criminal Justice in 1989 and went on to graduate with her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2015. She is passionate about ensuring First Responders and their families have access to the trauma care they deserve.

Taija Horne
Taija Horne is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, EMDR trained and with specialization in combat and first responder occupational trauma; as well as moral injury. When we say trauma, our go to is typically one event that has left us with symptoms of post traumatic stress. However, accumulated life cycle and emotional traumas can have a significant impact on our function as well. These are the events that test our resilience and our emotional survival on a daily basis. Clients can expect to work closely with Taija as they resolve trauma and rebalance their internal systems. There is no trauma too great to reconcile.

Christopher Loup, LPC
Christopher Loup is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) located in Kerrville, Texas. Although he is a ways away from DWF, he is fully capable of providing telehealth therapy services. Christopher is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional as well as trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Christopher brings with him an understanding of what police officers experience daily on the job. Christopher retired as a police officer after 20 years with The City of Bryan. He knows firsthand about the things police officers see, hear, and smell every day. Not only can those things impact your job performance, but they can also impact who you are as a father, mother, husband, wife, sister, daughter, son, brother, and friend. Do not allow to job to negatively impact who you really are. Some of the things first responders experience are stuck images and sensations; but they don’t have to last forever. Through the use of Accelerated Resolution Therapy you and Christopher can work together so you do not have to see those images the same way again.

Jason Maxtin, LMSW
As a former firefighter/paramedic, I understand the influences on first responders—the adrenaline, the culture, and the emotional toll. I have a passion for helping others towards quick relief and long-term satisfaction.
My therapeutic toolbox includes:
• Talk Therapy: I provide an ear to listen as you navigate and adjust your path toward healing.
• Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART): Find swift relief from trauma, phobias, and more.
• Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy: Explore new pathways to healing and growth. Helpful for many concerns including trauma, depression, addiction, and suicidal ideation.
• Neurofeedback: Harness brain regulation for optimal well-being.
Your privacy is paramount. I adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines. Whether in-person at my Fort Worth office or online, you’re not alone—Let’s take the next step on your path together.

Dr. Blake Mallory
Dr. Blake Mallory is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC, NCC, CPT ) and the Co-founder and owner of a trauma- and grief-informed group practice, Cardinal Counseling and Wellness Group, PLLC. With over 20 years of Marine Corps, law enforcement, investigative and counseling experience, he understands firsthand the culture and stigma surrounding public servants asking for help. Dr. Mallory’s approach to the therapeutic relationship is eclectic and holistic, providing clients with a unique therapeutic and healing experience. He utilizes a person-centered and solution focused approach with a primary emphasis on creating and developing a therapeutic alliance.
Dr. Mallory provides trauma-focused and cognitive-based therapies, including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Crisis intervention (CISM), debriefing strategies and psychoeducational outlets.
Over the years, he has found that everyone has their own unique healing process and path. Not everyone heals the same way nor sees through the same lens. He uses diverse treatment tools to serve an equally diverse population. Dr. Mallory is a firm believer that for us to live well, we must learn to struggle well!

Katie Meek, LPC
Katie Meek is a licensed professional counselor who specializes in trauma counseling. As a first responder spouse and mother, Katie understands the challenges and often times the trauma that these men and women experience on a daily basis. Additionally, Katie’s husband is a veteran. She brings knowledge of the military lifestyle to sessions as needed. Katie is a certified clinical trauma professional, has been trained in EMDR therapy since 2019, and is deeply passionate about treating trauma. She has been part of the Mental Health for Heroes program serving law enforcement, firefighters, medical personnel, dispatch, and more for the last two years. Katie also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, among other modalities, to assist her clients in establishing healthy coping skills so clients have the tools to continue their success post-counseling. Upon request, she can also incorporate Christian counseling into sessions. Katie is available for virtual sessions and is looking forward to meeting you!

Olivia Van Ness, MCRC, LPC, CFRC
Olivia has worked in the field of mental health for over 11 years and has experience in many care settings. She quickly found a passion for aiding first responders who had sustained physical or mental work related injuries. Olivia sees individual counseling clients during evening and weekend hours part time. In her full time role, she serves as a clinician co-responder alongside police and fire departments in Tarrant County for active emergency 911 calls related to mental health crisis.

Amanda Noyes
Amanda Noyes, LCSW-S, CCTP, has had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings that have equipped her with notable hands-on experience over the past 20 years. She has worked on-scene alongside police, supported doctors and nurses in ER and ICU, and worked next to the U.S. National Guard during Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Ike, and Harvey. Amanda specializes in combat PTSD and is passionate about providing hope and healing to all first responders and individuals who have endured (or are continuing to endure) horrific traumas and unspeakable losses. She is professionally trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) by the Strong Star Training Initiative and is in network with Medicare, BCBS, and Tricare.

Katie Paddon
I was a police officer for over seven years, spending most of my time on patrol. I hold an advanced TCOLE license and the following certifications: mental health officer, basic instructor, critical incident stress management (CISM), field training officer, background investigator and hostage negotiator. During my law enforcement experience, I recognized the need for first responders to have someone to talk to who understands the unique challenges this career brings. This experience brought me to where I am today. I am now a licensed professional counselor associate specializing in first responder mental health and wellness. I offer virtual mental health services with a 10% discount to any first responders in Texas. I work with adult individuals, couples, and groups.

Alyson Pertuis LPC
Alyson Pertuis, LPC is dedicated to caring for first responders and their families. As a military wife of over two decades (ret.), she served as a spouse volunteer supporting the families of those who sacrifice for us! She understands the challenges and struggles that come with that service-the long hours, stressors, traumas & uncertainty. She knows camaraderie and loyalty are intrinsic for those who are willing to put their life at risk for others.
Alyson became a counselor after years as a teacher and stay-at-home mom. She approaches the “whole” person when working with clients. This includes incorporation of faith, physical wellness and proven therapies. Alyson is Master Certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.R.T.) which is an effective modalities used to treat many issues like: trauma, panic disorders, phobias, depression, anxiety, social anxiety, and more.
She completed training with 3FTL for cultural competency with 1st Responders and seeks to advocate for mental health in the community.

Maggie Roney
Maggie E. Roney M.S. NCC LPC ICP is an EMDR certified counselor and consultant with over 13 years of experience located in Wylie and McKinney. She holds certifications in IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback and Functional Medicine as well. This combination allows her to implement an individualized treatment approach for healing. Maggie is very familiar with the first responder life as she is a LEO wife and has had several family members who have served in the military.

Kailee Rubright
Hello! I’m Kailee and my passion for mental health work stems from my own experiences within the field. A social worker once saved me, and it ignited a fire within my soul to help others who struggle with trauma, sexual trauma, or suicidal ideation. I am an Air Force veteran, and I am passionate about helping fellow veterans, military members, and first responders. I use an eclectic approach to helping my clients as I believe there is no “one size fits all” for everyone. I strongly believe that you have the answers, sometimes you just need help finding them!
I am certified in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and am EMDR trained. I also use traditional modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I have experience working with populations 12+, emphasis on women, active duty military, 1st responders, and veterans.
I started my career within the VA in Alaska, and as my family made our way to Texas, I have gained experience, knowledge, and insight to expanding on my abilities to help the population I am so passionate about. My service dog, Chloe, loves to greet my clients and sometimes is helpful when feeling nervous or anxious for the first few meetings as well! We can’t wait to meet you!

Cristina Serna
Cristina Serna, LMSW, is professionally trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Cristina has had two career paths that have equipped her with distinguished experience. Her military service provided her with hands-on experience during her enlisted time. She then entered the mental health field where she has had the opportunity to work with complex and traumatic cases. Cristina believes heroes need help too, and she is extremely passionate about helping our military, veterans, and first responders to fight the fight within so they can continue to do what they are meant to do. Cristina is bilingual in English and Spanish, and is offering reduced rates.

Tempa Sherrill
Tempa Sherrill is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and the founder and owner of a trauma- and grief-informed practice, The Brave Fight, LLC. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and is currently a Consultant in Training. In 2016 she founded Stay The Course Veteran Services, which provides evidence-based therapies to veterans, first responders, frontline medical workers, and families. In addition to her extensive background within these communities, she brings experience in EMS crisis response as a former paramedic. Tempa is also Senior Director for Strategy and Innovation at Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute.
As the spouse of not only a combat veteran, but a retired police officer, she understands first-hand the difficulties public servants experience and the invisible wounds that so often are ignored due to the stigma of getting help. She is powerfully aware of the trauma that family members endure and the importance of healing for the family. Tempa believes her work in behavioral health is a calling to empower others to overcome human struggles in order to live resilient lives.

Yumnah Syed-Swift, LCSW
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who married into a true NY Irish family of veterans and first responders, which has provided me with familiarity and perspective toward the unique challenges these communities face and the sacrifices they make.
Supporting people from my own community and backgrounds is my passion. I’m a late-in-life member of the ADHD club, a Perinatal Mental Health Provider, and especially love working with other neurodivergent folks and parents. I enjoy couples/relationship therapy, and am a Level 2 Certified Imago Relationship Therapist.
Supporting clients in breaking harmful intergenerational patterns, and to heal from trauma by providing culturally competent care to fellow members of marginalized communities is my jam.
I believe in being authentic in the therapy space. I’m a proud wife, bio mom and a bonus mom, as well as a fur mom – we’ve got a full house! I believe in practicing from a place of genuine care and connection, and that includes being transparent in what I’m bringing to the therapy room.

Kathryn Thalken
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S) and TBRI® Practitioner, I bring nearly a decade of experience helping first responder couples and families strengthen their relationships, improve communication, and navigate the unique challenges that come with life in a first responder family.
Being a police wife, (and with both my brother and brother-in-law serving as officers) I have a deep and personal connection to the first responder community. I am the owner of Thrive & Shine Co., PLLC, where I specialize in working with couples and families of first responders—law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs, and others who dedicate their lives to serving others.
I’m a straightforward therapist who doesn’t sugarcoat—but don’t worry, I always include a dash of sarcasm and humor to make the process a little more approachable. My mission is to help first responders and their families reconnect, heal, and thrive together.

Donna Thurman
Donna is dually licensed as both a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Donna retired after 20 years as a police officer to pursue her second career as a counselor helping others navigate through their struggles in life. Her passion is working with first responders and helping them manage the compound stresses of the job and the impact it can have on their lives. She also specializes in working with couples and guiding them through parenting issues, blending families, sexual difficulties, family drama, and breaches of trust such as infidelity. She is trained in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) as well as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which are both types of therapies that can help treat trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression and more. Donna sees clients in person in Richardson or virtually for clients anywhere in Texas. She is in network with most major insurance companies.

Thalia Tonche
Thalia Tonche is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and lead therapist at Conscious Freedom located in Mansfield, TX. With a compassionate approach, Thalia specializes in providing therapy services tailored to children and adolescents aged 10 and up, adults, couples, and families. Thalia specializes in areas including anxiety, life adjustments, childhood behavioral concerns, and maternal mental health. Drawing from an eclectic therapeutic approach, Thalia’s goal is to create a healing environment for each of her clients. As a police wife herself, she understands the unique challenges faced by police families, offering personalized support to navigate life’s complexities with resilience and strength.

Natasha Turner
As a licensed therapist with years of experience including that as a medical social worker and a military spouse, I bring a unique perspective to my work with the First Responder Support Network. My firsthand experience in both the medical field and within the military community has equipped me with valuable insights into the challenges faced by first responders and their families.
My background in medical social work has provided me with a deep understanding of the physical and emotional effects of trauma, as well as the importance of providing holistic support. Additionally, being a military spouse has given me an intimate understanding of the sacrifices and stress that come with serving in high-stress roles.
I am passionate about providing culturally competent and evidence-based therapy to first responders and their families, as well as advocating for their mental health needs. I am dedicated to creating a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their experiences and find healing and resilience.
My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration, and I am committed to supporting the unique needs of those who serve our communities. I am honored to be a part of the First Responder Support Network and look forward to contributing to the well-being of our local first responder community!

Johanna Wender
Johanna Wender, MA, LMHC, LPC is a licensed professional counselor and president of Bravura Counseling, a practice exclusively serving LEOs, first responders, service members and veterans. She is also the proud wife of a retired police sergeant. Johanna has extensive clinical experience working in a wide range of mental health service settings and specializes in evidence-based treatment of PTSD and other related concerns. In addition to her clinical practice, Johanna provides training and consulting services to law enforcement agencies and a wide range of other clients. In her free time, Johanna enjoys spending time with her family and being active, especially ultrarunning and functional fitness.
FOR FIRST RESPONDER FAMILIES:
Much of the trauma witnessed on the job may cause stress at home. That’s why we have identified and vetted several counselors and professionals who can help you and your family through these complex issues.
Carrie Breedlove
Carrie is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who is EMDR Certified. She helps women ages 25-65 find joy on their unchosen journey through Christian based therapy. She has worked in outpatient mental health for over twenty years and has been in private practice at Breedlove Counseling since 2017. Carrie has experience working with women who are experiencing traumatic grief and death of family members from cancer, substance use, and suicide. She has also counseled women experiencing difficult marriages, betrayal, after effects of divorce, childhood emotional neglect, pregnancy loss, and infertility. She has personal experience with navigating infertility with her spouse since 2005. Carrie is also the daughter of a Vietnam veteran and her brother is a career Marine. She is one of the founders of the Christian Therapist’s of North Texas and the DFW First Responder’s Support Network.

Dr. Laura Bryan
Laura Bryan, PhD., M.Ed., LPC, LPCC is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Texas and Kentucky. Dr. Laura Bryan provides therapeutic interventions for individuals, couples, families, and groups. Dr. Bryan has over twenty years of experience as an educational and health care professional that includes extensive experience in assessment, diagnosis, providing therapy, treatment planning, collaborating with community partners, court testimony, co-parenting, and crisis/trauma intervention. Services are provided to individuals, couples, families, and groups. Dr. Bryan also has worked in various clinical and educational settings including public and private schools, community mental health centers, outpatient facilities and private practice. Dr. Bryan has experience with individuals that have experienced trauma and personal experience in trauma, loss, and grief.

Carisa Bustillos-Givens
Carisa Bustillos-Givens, LPC, is a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist, a Certified Career Services Provider, and is obtaining her Perinatal Mental Health Certification. Carisa has more than 15 years of experience and specializes in grief, traumatic loss, and life changes. Additionally, she provides a dedicated focus to those who have experienced fetal demise or perinatal loss. Carisa is bilingual in English and Spanish. She is in network with BCBS and Tricare.

Melisa Dean
Having grown up with parents who were in law enforcement, I have an understanding of the culture. I also worked 22 years in foster care, including CPS as an investigator. I have experience in high crisis jobs with high stress and the impact that has personally as well as on families. I have many years working with trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety and addiction. I work with adult individuals and couples (using an attachment approach). I am EMDR trained and working toward certification. I am a Christian counselor who will be happy to incorporate faith if you so desire. I have experience working with unique populations such as first responders and their spouses, military, foster/adoptive parents, and those in ministry.

Cyndi Doyle
As a law enforcement spouse, Cyndi made it her mission to become an expert on law enforcement culture, mental health, and relationships, and has been recognized in Law Enforcement communities for her knowledge and expertise. By educating first responders and partners to understand the unintentional spillover from the job, healing disconnection, and countering the impact in the future, we keep first responders and their relationships safe, connected, and resilient. Critical incidents, OIS, compounded trauma, and PTSD are often a result of working as a first responder community. Cyndi works with clients struggling with these issues by utilizing Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).

Disclaimer
Every provider included in this list has undergone thorough vetting and has met specific criteria. They have received professional training in evidence-based trauma treatment modalities. They have either served as a first responder or have undergone training and gained experience in working with the first responder population and/or their family members. Additionally, they possess cultural competence with this population.
The DFW First Responders Support Network, The DFW Scanner, and The DFW Scanner Donates are not otherwise associated with any provider on this list and no money has or will be exchanged for referrals through this site. Furthermore, the DFW First Responders Support Network is a volunteer network and cannot be held liable or responsible for the actions or treatment taken by any of the providers on this list. However, if a provider on this list is not an appropriate fit, please reach out to anyone on the leadership team and we will assist you in finding appropriate resources.
Are you interested in becoming a vetted provider for our Network? Fill out this vetting form and a member of our leadership team will contact you promptly: Vetting Form
You can contact the leadership team below.
CRISIS INFORMATION
- Safe Call Now – 1-206-459-3020
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Text or call 988, or 1-800-273-8255
- Fire/EMS Helpline – 1-888-731-3473
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255
- Crisis Text Line – Text “Start” or “Help” to 741-741
- Copline (Law Enforcement Only) – 1-800-267-5463
- Frontline Helpline – 1-866-676-7500