Healing the Helpers (First Responders) with Erin Fischer

In this episode of the True North Success Podcast, Gary Mah sits down with registered psychologist and trauma specialist Erin Fischer to talk about the unique mental health challenges faced by first responders and those in high-stress helping professions. Erin shares how her passion for this work began, what makes first responders a distinct population, and why specialized trauma treatment is so important.

Erin explains how therapies such as EMDR, somatic experiencing, and prolonged exposure help people process traumatic experiences that get “stuck” in the nervous system. Rather than erasing the past, these approaches help individuals change their relationship to painful events so they can move forward with greater peace and resilience.

The conversation also explores Erin’s journey into private practice, the challenges of learning the business side of psychology, and the importance of continued education, consultation, and mentorship. Erin offers thoughtful advice for clinicians looking to grow their skills, as well as insights into future plans, including working with couples and mentoring new psychologists.

This episode is a powerful reminder that healing the helpers matters — and that with the right support, recovery is possible.

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