Specialties
PTSD
Trauma
Anxiety/Depression
First Responder mental health
Crisis Response
Family / Couples Therapy
Biographical Information
Heather was born and raised on the Eastern Shore. She received her Bachelor of Social Work degree from Salisbury University. Heather began working as an Addiction Counselor at the Wicomico County Health Department. While at the health department, Heather assisted in the creation of the Crisis Intervention Team for Wicomico and Somerset Counties. Over the years, Heather continued to work with individuals and agencies to create and implement programs and interventions designed to help those in crisis.
As the spouse of a retired police officer, Heather began to realize that there was a lack of mental health resources for first responders. She decided to focus her attention on the resiliency and wellness of our first responders and their families to help them heal and grow from the trauma they experience on the job. “The jobs first responders have can cause a ripple effect and it is important to provide support to the whole family not just the individual”
Heather is a Certified Trauma Professional, Certified First Responder Associate, and has had intensive training to provide Cognitive Processing Therapy for those who suffer from PTSD. In 2022, Heather graduated a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology from Walden University.
Outside of CFC, Heather helps run a 501(c)(3) called Behind the Line, Inc which is an organization that focuses on first responders and family wellness. Heather and her husband teach first responders about peer support and help them to develop skills to help others.
Heather works along side her dog, Benji, who is a Certified Therapy Dog. Benji helps people feel more relaxed. Typically, whenever you see Heather, you will also see Benji.
BSW Psychology
Salisbury University, 1999
M.S. Psychology
Capella University, 2010
Doctor of Psychology
Walden University, 2022