When The Call Hits Home | Episode 9: Childhoods Shaped by Service

Hosts:

- Dr. Ashlee Gethner DSW, LCSW: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer

- Jennifer Woosley Saylor LPCC S: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer

Guest:

- Dr. Samantha Reeser: Licensed Psychologist and former first responder

Episode Overview:
In this heartfelt and insightful episode, hosts Jennifer Woosley and Ashlee Gethner sit down with Dr. Samantha Reeser, a licensed psychologist and former first responder. Together, they delve into the unique challenges and experiences of growing up as the children of first responders, the impact on family dynamics, and the evolving importance of mental health within the first responder community.

Key Points:
- Introducing Dr. Samantha Reeser: Dr. Reeser shares her background as the child of a police officer and dispatcher and as the spouse of a first responder, providing a multifaceted perspective on the topic.
- Life with First Responder Parents: The trio discusses the balance Dr. Reeser's parents struck between strictness and understanding, the anxieties surrounding law enforcement jobs, and their secondary careers.
- Personal Experiences: Hosts Jennifer and Ashlee offer personal anecdotes, discussing ride alongs, and the public perceptions about their parents' roles.
- Scheduling Challenges: They explore the impact of unpredictable first responder schedules on family life and the efforts to prioritize family despite demanding jobs.
- Mental Health in Law Enforcement: Dr. Reeser emphasizes the growing awareness and importance of mental health in the first responder community and the shift away from suffering in silence.
- Therapy for First Responders: The need for a relatable and casual approach to therapy is highlighted, building trust through shared experiences.
- Parenting as a First Responder: The conversation shifts to finding balance as a parent who is a first responder, managing expectations, and being transparent with children about vulnerabilities.
- Career Transition: Dr. Reeser discusses her move from law enforcement to psychology, driven by personal circumstances and her passion for helping others in different capacities.
- Humor and Camaraderie: The episode includes light-hearted and humorous anecdotes, like memories from police stations and amusing departmental incidents, adding a personal touch to the discussion.
 

We appreciate Dr. Samantha Reeser for joining us and sharing her invaluable perspectives. A big thank you to our listeners for your continued support. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with others who might benefit from these discussions.

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If this episode resonated with you or you know someone in the first responder community who could benefit from this discussion, please share this episode. Let's work together to break the stigma and promote mental health awareness.

Thank You for Listening!

We appreciate your continuous support. Stay tuned for our next episode as we continue to share stories and provide support to those in the first responder community and beyond.

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This podcast does not contain medical / health advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.

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