From Crisis to Counseling: A First Responder’s Approach to Therapy
Therapy isn't just about theory. It's about showing up with real-world understanding.
After more than 30 years as a paramedic, I’ve learned that healing begins not with diagnosis but with human connection, stability, and presence. My approach to therapy is grounded in that frontline experience and influenced by models that honor both immediate crisis and long-term growth.
A Trauma-Informed, Existential Foundation
In the field, I saw how trauma affects people physically, emotionally, and spiritually. That reality shapes my work as a counselor. I draw on existential theory because it centers the human search for meaning, even in suffering. Clients aren’t problems to solve; they’re people navigating the unknown, often doing their best with what they’ve been given.
Maslow, Psychological First Aid, and the Hierarchy of Needs
Before someone can reflect, grow, or set goals, they need stability. That’s why Maslow’s hierarchy and Psychological First Aid (PFA) are central to my approach. We begin with basic needs: safety, calm, connection. From there, we can build. In both prehospital emergency medicine and counseling, people must be seen and stabilized before they can explore deeper healing.
Human-Centered, Relational Work
I believe people want to be heard, not fixed. I value Carl Rogers' humanistic model—especially his focus on authenticity, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. As a first responder, I often met people at their lowest. Now, as a counselor, I meet them with the same compassion and calm. No masks. No judgments. Just presence.
Strategize Your Success
At Tactical Counseling, therapy is tailored to your lived experience, not a theoretical ideal. Whether you're working through trauma, seeking direction, or just trying to make sense of life, I’m here to listen, guide, and walk alongside you. Together, we’ll honor your story and build a path forward, a path grounded in dignity, trust, and meaning.
Resources for Further Reading:
- • Psychological First Aid – NCTSN
- • Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs – Simply Psychology
- • Existential Therapy Explained – Positive Psychology