This week I welcome back two of the most respected first responder Psychologists to upack all things mental health. We discuss psychological recruitment testing, the educational requirements of the different mental health practitioners, the pros and cons of EAP programmes, what a counseling session should look like, how to find a culturally competent clinician, provider red flags, overcoming financial barriers and so much more.

Dr Brooke Bartlett: “I am a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY33545) in California with specific expertise in trauma-, anxiety-, and stressor-related disorders and symptoms. I have trained at some of the nation’s most renowned institutions for PTSD and anxiety and am one of few psychologists with extensive experience and training in working with first responders and military veterans. I absolutely love what I do for a living and make the most out of my training and education by being as versatile within the field of psychology as I can be; I am a consultant, professor, and clinician- all at once!

I’m often asked why I chose to pursue a career as a trauma psychologist, and my best answer is this: I truly believe I was born to do this work. Since childhood I’ve been captivated by the stories of resiliency displayed by individuals who have experienced unspeakable trauma. This catapulted me into a lifelong pursuit of better understanding how trauma uniquely impacts each individual. I am continuously humbled and inspired by the strength and resiliency of those I work with, and I use this inspiration as my daily motivation to provide the highest quality of service to all my clients.”

Dr. Jena Casas, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical and Police and Public Safety Psychologist who owns and operates a private practice in Northern Nevada. She holds a master's degree in Criminal Justice and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Nevada, Reno, and is a certified emergency responder and public safety clinician. She specializes in providing mental health services to first responders and their families and organizational consultation to agencies interested in developing wellness programming for their staff.

Dr. Casas is an accomplished researcher, having published dozens of peer-reviewed publications and book chapters on topics related to the intersection of culture, psychology, and law; her most recent publications are related to the mental health of first responders.

Dr. Casas is also a member of key organizations for providers that practice in police and public safety psychology, including APA’s division 18, the IACP psychological services section, the national sheriffs association, and the society for police and criminal psychology.