About John
JT is a graduate student at Grand Canyon University pursuing a Master’s Degree and licensure as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, under the supervision of Jessica Carter, MSC, LPC.
JT began his life of service in the US Army as an AH-64, Apache helicopter pilot. After he got out of the Army, he found a passion for the fire service. He served in a variety of roles on the Mesa Fire and Medical Department (MFMD) in Arizona to include Paramedic, EMS & Fire Service Educator, Fire Captain, EMS Captain, Alarm Room Captain, and Battalion Safety Officer.
For his side gigs, JT was a lead instructor for both the High-Performance CPR University at the University of Arizona – Phoenix Campus, and Arizona EPIC TBI Project. On the national level, JT served on the National EMS Advisory Council (NEMSAC).
My approach to therapy
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After 26 years in the fire service, I retired from the MFMD in April 2024 to pursue the next chapter in my life as a counselor. I have witnessed and experienced firsthand the many issues and challenges first responders and families experience throughout a career in public safety. First responders are at higher risk for PTSD, substance abuse, burnout, compassion fatigue, marital issues, and suicide.
My extensive history of working in the field with first responders gives me a unique perspective of challenges faced by the first responder population and how the stressors of the job affect dispatchers, EMT’s, paramedics, firefighters, police officers, and veterans. By providing trauma-informed care, I strive to promote and normalize mental health care as a regular part of the first responder and veteran community. I hope to improve access to mental health services at the first signs of distress to enable public safety professionals to increase the enjoyment of their lives, families, and careers.
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© 2023 by Jessica Carter