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How much do first responder psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for first responder psychologist in the United States is $63,546.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $67,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first responder psychologist?

First Responder Psychologists are mental health professionals who specialize in providing psychological support and services to first responders, such as police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians. They help these individuals manage the unique and often intense stressors associated with their jobs, including exposure to trauma, grief, and high-pressure situations. Their work may include counseling, crisis intervention, critical incident stress debriefing, training, and developing wellness programs to promote mental health resilience among first responders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first responder psychologist?

To thrive as a First Responder Psychologist, you need expertise in clinical or counseling psychology, a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), state licensure, and specialized knowledge of trauma and crisis intervention. Familiarity with trauma assessment tools, evidence-based therapeutic modalities (such as CBT and EMDR), and electronic health record (EHR) systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, cultural competence, and resilience are crucial soft skills for building trust and supporting first responders in high-stress environments. These skills and qualifications are vital for providing effective mental health care, ensuring the wellbeing of first responders, and fostering long-term psychological resilience.

What are some unique challenges first responder psychologists face when working with emergency personnel?

First responder psychologists often encounter the challenge of building trust with clients who are accustomed to high-stress environments and may be hesitant to discuss mental health concerns due to stigma. They must also be prepared to address acute stress reactions and trauma related to critical incidents, sometimes in the immediate aftermath. Additionally, these professionals need to be flexible with their schedules, as crises can arise outside of regular hours, and they frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care for first responders.
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Cities with the most First Responder Psychologist job openings:

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First Responder Psychologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Responder Psychologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,546 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Remote Mental Health Counselor - First Responder Focus

First Responder Mental Health Clinic

Lancaster, CA • Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Mental Health Counselor to join our team at the First Responder Mental Health Clinic. This full-time, remote position is designed for licensed therapists who are passionate about providing support to individuals who serve on the front lines of public safety. As a Mental Health Counselor, you will play a crucial role in assisting first responders in managing the unique emotional and psychological challenges associated with their high-stress environments.

About the Organization

The First Responder Mental Health Clinic is committed to offering specialized mental health services to police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders. Located in Lancaster, California, we recognize the sacrifices these individuals make for our communities, and we strive to provide a supportive and understanding environment. Our dedicated team of professionals utilizes evidence-based practices tailored to the distinct needs of our clients, ensuring that every individual receives the highest quality of care.

Work Environment

This position offers a flexible remote work setting, allowing you to provide therapy from the comfort of your own home while eliminating overhead costs associated with private practice. Our digital tools and user-friendly documentation platform make it easy to connect with clients and manage their treatment plans efficiently. You will have a consistent client base, enabling you to focus on what you do best: providing compassionate mental health support.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct virtual therapy sessions with clients from various professional backgrounds, primarily focusing on first responders.
  • Utilize established evidence-based therapeutic techniques to address a range of emotional and behavioral health challenges, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and chronic stress.
  • Develop comprehensive, individualized treatment plans that cater to each client's unique circumstances and adjust these plans as necessary based on progress and feedback.
  • Provide ongoing support and skill-building strategies to help clients develop effective coping mechanisms, enhancing their resilience and overall mental wellness.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of client interactions, treatment goals, and progress within our digital documentation system, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
Patient Population / Client Focus

Your role will primarily involve working with first responders—those who face high-stress situations daily, including law enforcement personnel, paramedics, and fire service members. Understanding the unique pressures and experiences faced by these clients is critical, and you will provide tailored support that respects their backgrounds and challenges.

Qualifications
  • A bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related discipline is required.
  • Active licensure in California as either an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist), or LPCC (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor).
  • A minimum of two years of relevant clinical experience in a mental health setting, with a preference for work involving first responders or similar high-stress professions.
  • Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to work independently in a remote environment.
  • Proficiency with digital documentation tools, ensuring efficient client management and progress tracking.
Preferred Experience
  • Experience working specifically with first responders or emergency service professionals.
  • Familiarity with trauma-informed care practices and the use of specific therapeutic techniques, such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) or EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Compensation and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary ranging from USD 90,000 to 100,000 annually based on experience and qualifications. In addition to a robust compensation package, we provide comprehensive benefits, including:

  • 401(k) plan with employer contributions to help you save for your future.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance, ensuring you and your family have access to high-quality health care.
  • Life insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Career Growth Opportunities

At the First Responder Mental Health Clinic, we value professional development and continuous learning. Our organization offers opportunities for career advancement, access to specialized training programs, and support for further education in mental health. As we expand our services, there will be room for growth into leadership or specialized areas of therapy.

Why Join Our Team

Joining our team means becoming part of an organization that genuinely cares about the well-being of first responders. You will work in a collegial environment with like-minded professionals who share your passion for mental health. Your contributions are vital in paving the way for improved mental health outcomes among those who risk so much for our communities.

Application Information

If you are committed to supporting the mental health of our heroes and have the qualifications and experience we seek, we invite you to apply today. Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation for this role. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a meaningful impact!

Apply