I’m Gina Rivera Sokolich, a Licensed Professional Counselor and retired First Responder with over 14 years of clinical experience. I’m the founder of Responding First Counseling in Ballwin, Missouri, where I specialize in helping First Responders manage stress, burnout, compassion fatigue, grief, and other life-altering challenges. My goal is to help clients feel grounded and clear so they can function at their best, both on the job and in their personal lives. In addition to my work with First Responders, I support individuals who are navigating profound grief, not only from the loss of a loved one but also from significant life changes such as career shifts, identity loss, and life or relationship transitions. Grief comes in many forms, and I help clients process the emotional weight of change while discovering what’s next with intention and strength. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in trauma-informed care. I integrate EMDR, Brainspotting, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to support meaningful healing. As a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP), I help clients explore how trauma lives in both the mind and body—guiding them through the difficult, but often transformative, process of processing pain and rebuilding resilience. Besides being a member of the Missouri Crisis Intervention Team (FRPN), I am a member of the American Counseling Association of Missouri, the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association (ILEETA), and the St. Louis Hero Network. I’m also contracted with local fire and EMS departments to provide crisis response and lead mental health training. If you or your department needs support, trauma-informed therapy, or education about mental health, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I’d be honored to walk alongside you. Thank you! Gina