First Responders
The culture within first responder professions emphasizes strength, resilience, and the ability to excel in high-stress situations. Admitting vulnerability or seeking help for mental health concerns can be viewed as contradicting this tough image. This mindset may make it difficult for you to reach out for support, as you may believe that you should be able to handle these problems on your own. While overcoming the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment can be challenging, the benefits are substantial and contribute to overall resilience and a better quality of life.
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Jennifer Koch, Psy.D.
Clinical Psychologist
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional-Level 2
Specialized Treatment for First Responders:
Work Collaboratively with Dr. Jennifer Koch
My goal is to provide a supportive, confidential, and stigma-free space where first responders can work through the specific stressors and traumas that accompany the demanding nature of their profession. I provide evidence-based therapeutic interventions designed to address the mental health concerns that these brave individuals may encounter, including but not limited to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, compassion fatigue, occupational burnout, and substance misuse. I am dedicated to providing specialized and compassionate mental health treatment tailored to the needs of firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics, and other emergency service professionals.
I recognize the critical importance of adopting an individualized approach to address the complex challenges first responders face. Understanding that no two individuals within this resilient community share identical experiences, I am committed to tailoring my therapeutic interventions to suit the unique needs, coping mechanisms, and backgrounds of every client. I am dedicated to collaborating closely with each client to determine the most effective treatment. I encourage you to contact me if you would like to discuss your treatment options, ask questions, and determine the best way to get started.
Contact Information
Front Desk: 360-706-2674
Dr. Koch Direct Line: 360-485-2806 (Call or Text)
Email: drjenniferkoch@gmail.com
Insurance Accepted
Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield
First Choice
Premera
Kaiser Permanente
L & I
Treatment Options
Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
This treatment combines the principles of trauma-informed care with the evidence-based techniques of cognitive-behavioral therapy. TI-CBT for first responders aims to provide a comprehensive and empathetic approach to address trauma-related challenges while respecting the unique aspects of their profession and culture.
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TI-CBT helps clients learn to recognize common trauma responses and understand how exposure to traumatic events can affect thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Key elements of TI-CBT includes understanding trauma responses in the brain and body, collaborative goal setting, cognitive restructuring, skill-building for coping, distress tolerance, resilience building, and integration of peer support.
Cognitive Processing Therapy
CPT is a structured therapy approach, typically consisting of 12 or more sessions. This therapy aims to help individuals reevaluate and change distorted or unhelpful cognitions associated with the traumatic event. Additionally, CPT helps individuals process and make sense of their emotions related to the trauma.
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CPT can help clients recognize how their traumatic experiences have affected their beliefs about themselves, others, and the world. By understanding the impact of trauma on their worldview, client can work towards modifying these beliefs and fostering a more balanced perspective. By addressing cognitive distortions and emotional responses related to the trauma, first responders may experience improvements in relationships, work, and daily activities. CPT is evidence-based and highly effective for the treatment of PTSD.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) is a structured and evidence-based approach that combines cognitive and behavioral techniques. It empowers individuals to confront and process their traumatic experiences, ultimately promoting recovery and improved mental well-being.
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Clients confront and process their memories, gradually reducing avoidance behaviors that may contribute to the maintenance of PTSD symptoms. The core component of PE involves imaginal exposure, where clients are guided to revisit the traumatic event in a safe and controlled setting. This process helps desensitize the emotional impact of the memory. PE also addresses maladaptive thoughts related to the trauma, challenging and restructuring them to promote more balanced and realistic thinking. While PE may seem overwhelming, it is important to note that prior to exposure, clients learn the necessary skills and foundational tools for navigating the emotional intensity of the therapeutic process. Also, this treatment is not the best fit for some clients and we will decide together if this is appropriate for you.