We’re Here to Help

Well·ness

noun

  • the state of being in good health, especially as an actively pursued goal

Re·cov·er·y

noun

  • a return to a normal state of health, mind, or strength

  • the action or process of regaining possession or control of something stolen or lost

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Dr. Sarah Thompson, Ph.D. is a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience serving first responders and their families. She holds a PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences and a master’s degree in Counseling with a specialization in trauma and crisis intervention.

Dr. Thompson serves as Clinical Director for Virginia First Responder Support Services and is a Certified First Responder Counselor. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and integrates evidence-based trauma therapies into her clinical work. She is also a Certified Animal-Assisted Intervention Specialist, incorporating therapeutic animal support when clinically appropriate.

In addition to her clinical leadership, Dr. Thompson is passionate about supporting the wellness and resilience of those who serve their communities. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys reading and bird watching.

Sarah Thompson, Ph.D., LPC

Ben Thompson is a career Lieutenant with Augusta County Fire Rescue and a Life Member of the Weyers Cave Fire Company, bringing more than 30 years of firefighting experience to his service. He is a Heavy Tactical Rescue Technician, HazMat Technician, and an active member of the Fire Prevention and Public Education Program. He previously served as an Assistant Fire Marshal.

Ben holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a concentration in Fire Science. Since 2017, he has served as Executive Director of Virginia First Responder Support Services, where he is dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of first responders across the Commonwealth.

Ben Thompson, BA, Peer Coordinator

Natalie Rader, Office Manager

Natalie Rader graduated from Mary Baldwin University with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and completed her internship at Thin Line Wellness and Recovery. In recognition of her impactful work supporting first responders, she received Mary Baldwin University’s Best High Impact Practice Award.

Natalie serves as Office Manager at Thin Line Wellness and Recovery, where she oversees day-to-day operations and helps ensure a smooth, supportive experience for both clients and clinicians. She is passionate about serving the region’s first responder community through direct support and wellness education, blending her administrative leadership with her background in social work.

She plans to further her professional development by pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work. Outside of work, Natalie enjoys watching football and spending time with her family.

John Gannon, Counseling Intern

John Gannon is a 25-year career firefighter who currently serves as an Acting Battalion Chief with Chesterfield Fire & EMS. He is a Hazmat Technician and the Program Manager of the Chesterfield Fire & EMS Peer Support Team, where he plays a key role in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of fellow first responders.

John holds a Bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management from the University of Richmond and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University. He will begin a telehealth internship with Thin Line Wellness and Recovery in Fall 2025, further integrating his extensive field experience with formal clinical training.

In his free time, John enjoys traveling and has a passion for sailing.

Ashley Jenkins, Counseling Intern

Ashley Jenkins is a counseling student intern with nearly 20 years of experience in healthcare. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Equine-Assisted Therapy at Emory & Henry University. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Psychology from the University of Virginia.

Ashley is passionate about serving first responders, a focus shaped by her extensive healthcare background and close ties to public safety professionals. Her clinical interests include working with adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents through a trauma-informed approach that emphasizes safety, trust, and resilience.

Athena Rose, Therapy Dog In Training

Athena is a female English Mastiff bred by Hooligan Mastiffs in Troy, Virginia. At the time of this writing, she is one year and four months old.

Athena completed Basic Obedience and AKC STAR Puppy training through Leader of the Pack Dog Training in Verona, Virginia. She continues to build foundational skills through ongoing socialization, desensitization, and advanced obedience work. Athena is working toward passing the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) examination, with the goal of obtaining official Therapy Dog certification.

As part of Thin Line Wellness & Recovery’s commitment to innovative and trauma-informed care, Athena supports animal-assisted interventions designed to enhance emotional safety, regulation, and connection for clients.

Apollo Charles, Emotional Support and Face Licker

Don’t tell him, but Apollo thinks he’s the REAL therapy dog in the office. He has no official training yet, but is confident he doesn’t need it. Little in size, but big in heart and attitude, his favorite activities include convincing you to give him multiple treats, sitting like a meerkat, and licking your brain through your nose.