Angelica (Angel) Espitia

Having grown up with family in law enforcement, I decided to follow in their footsteps and became a deputy sheriff in 2013. I lateralled to become a police officer in the Bay Area where I currently work. Being engaged to a firefighter, I also understand the demands of the fire service and how they can impact an individual.

I served in multiple collateral assignments including Gang Suppression Team, Field Training Officer, Crime Scene Investigator, Peer Support Team and spent four years as a Child Crimes Detective. My journey knocked me off my feet many times, but those challenges allowed me to redefine my purpose in which I am choosing to serve my peers and their families to show them they are not alone.

The career of a first responder can be fulfilling and there is a level of pride that comes with service. The reality is, it’s not always an easy journey. Having the right resources and people in your corner guiding you through can make all the difference.

In an effort to give back to the first responder community, I embarked on a journey in the counseling field. I am currently an intern, completing my masters in Military/Emergency Responder Psychology with Colorado State University-Global. I have a collaborative approach with clients and utilize techniques that include mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).  I  provide a non-judgmental space for clients in which I show compassion, understanding , along with a touch of humor sprinkled in.