Top-Rated California Therapist for First Responders
As a first responder, you face unique challenges that others may not understand: constant exposure to trauma, high-stress situations, and the weight of protecting others while managing your own well-being. If you're feeling overwhelmed, having trouble sleeping, or struggling to connect with loved ones, specialized therapy can help you process these experiences and reclaim your sense of balance.
Meet your California therapist for first responders
Lisa Franks, LCSW
As a trauma therapist, I’m passionate about supporting first responders. I'm committed to helping hard-working professionals like you prioritize their own wellness without having to sacrifice the career that means so much to them.
Using evidence-based methods like Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), I help first responders process difficult experiences quickly and effectively without having to relive traumatic details.
This approach recognizes that the skills you use to navigate crises are strengths at work but may be interfering with your relationships and well-being at home. Together, we’ll find new ways to help you be present outside of work while still excelling in your professional life.
Credentials: Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Clientele: Adults & couples
Location: Temecula, CA
Virtual therapy: Yes
How to get started
Step 1. Reach out
Start by filling out this brief online form or calling me directly to set up your free consultation. This will be a confidential conversation to help us understand if we’re the right fit.
Step 2. Consultation
During your complimentary consultation, we’ll discuss your specific concerns, I’ll explain how I can help, and we’ll determine if my approach is right for you. This is also an opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Step 3. First session
If we decide to work together, we’ll then schedule your intake appointment. This will be your first full-length appointment where I’ll gather more information about your background, current struggles, and goals.
Step 4. Start healing
Through structured sessions that blend ART with other evidence-based practices, you’ll find relief and learn skills to feel more present, both at work and at home. I offer both in-person sessions in Temecula and secure virtual appointments.
FAQs about first responder counseling
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Many of my clients come to me when they’re
Having difficulty sleeping,
Feeling constantly on edge,
Having trouble connecting with loved ones,
Finding it hard to “turn off” after work,
Increasingly irritable, or
Feeling emotionally numb.
However, there’s no wrong time to get help. You don’t need to wait until things are “bad enough” to reach out—in fact, counseling can often be most effective when there’s not an active crisis.
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I specialize in helping first responders address work-related trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and burnout. I also work with relationship challenges that often stem from the demands of your profession, including communication issues with spouses, difficulty being emotionally present with family, and the unique stress that comes with shift work. Whether you're dealing with a specific traumatic incident or the cumulative stress of your career, I’m here for you.
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Therapy offers a safe space to process difficult experiences and develop strategies to help you cope in a healthy, effective way. Through specialized approaches like ART, you can work through traumatic memories without having to discuss all of the painful details.
Our work together will also help you understand your stress responses, improve emotional regulation, strengthen your relationships, and develop practical tools for managing the demands of your profession.
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I’ve been in practice for over a decade, and my extensive work with first responders throughout my career has helped me understand the unique culture and challenges you face.
As a trauma-focused clinician, I recognize that traditional therapy approaches often fall short, which is why I specialize in ART: a method that delivers lasting results efficiently and respects your busy schedule.
I also understand the stigma that many first responders face when seeking support, so I’m committed to creating a confidential, judgment-free environment where your strength and service are honored.
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I’m a trauma-informed, Master ART-Certified therapist. I use ART as a primary tool because it allows you to process traumatic experiences rapidly and often leads to sustained emotional relief. I also integrate cognitive-behavioral strategies, mindfulness techniques, and stress management tools specifically tailored to the realities of first responder life.
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Sessions typically last 55 minutes, and we'll work at a pace that feels comfortable for you. With ART, many clients experience significant relief in just a few sessions, though everyone's journey is different. I'll provide you with practical tools you can use immediately while we address underlying issues that may be contributing to your current challenges. The entire process is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
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Yes, therapy is completely confidential. I'm bound by strict ethical and legal guidelines to protect your privacy. Information shared in our sessions stays between us, with very limited exceptions required by law (such as imminent danger to yourself or others). I understand the importance of confidentiality in your profession and will never share information about your participation in therapy without your explicit written consent.
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The best way to determine if we're a good fit is through a free consultation call. During this conversation, you can ask questions about my approach, share your concerns, and get a sense of my style. I work well with first responders who are motivated to make changes and ready to try new approaches to healing. If you value directness, efficiency, and evidence-based treatment, we'll likely work well together.