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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.

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

Cigna

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.

EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized form of therapy designed to alleviate distress associated with traumatic memories. Grounded in the belief that many psychological difficulties arise from unprocessed traumatic experiences, EMDR helps individuals reprocess these memories in a safe and structured environment. By engaging in bilateral stimulation, while focusing on distressing memories, EMDR facilitates the brain's natural healing processes. This approach aims to transform negative beliefs associated with trauma into more adaptive and positive ones, promoting emotional resilience and psychological well-being.

Dr. Koch tailors EMDR therapy to meet the unique needs of first responders. Recognizing the challenges these dedicated professionals face in their roles, her approach integrates specialized techniques and protocols. Sessions are structured to address the specific stressors and traumas encountered in the line of duty, fostering resilience and promoting effective coping strategies. The primary goal is to provide a supportive environment where first responders can safely explore and reprocess traumatic experiences, ultimately facilitating healing and promoting long-term mental health.

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.

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