Dr. Rachelle Zemlok

I’m a licensed clinical psychologist in California, and my journey as a member of a first responder family started back in high school. One of my proudest moments was when my oldest brother picked me up from school in his police car—a memory that still makes me smile. Since then, my family’s connection to first responder life has only grown. Today, I’m the sister of three retired law enforcement officers and married to a firefighter, so scheduling holidays at our house has always been an adventure!

​

Although I never pursued a career in the field myself, I’ve always admired the incredible sacrifices that first responders make. That admiration is what drives my mission to support the families who serve alongside them.

​

As a proud fire spouse—something I share about in my book, The Firefighter Family Academy—I know firsthand the ups and downs of being married to a first responder. And yes, introducing my firefighter husband to my law enforcement family made for some very entertaining family gatherings, filled with plenty of friendly banter.

​

I earned my doctorate in clinical psychology from Alliant International University in San Francisco in 2013. My dissertation, The Impacts of Police Work on Law Enforcement Families, was based on interviews with officers, their spouses, and adult children, allowing me to deeply explore the effects of law enforcement work on family dynamics. I continued this focus during my postdoctoral training, providing therapy and support to law enforcement personnel and their families. I’ve also had the unique opportunity to attend many ride-alongs and live trainings, which have given me invaluable insight into the challenges of first responder life.

​

In 2018, I published The Firefighter Family Academy: A Guide to Educate and Prepare Spouses for the Career Ahead. And in 2019, I opened First Responder Family Psychology to provide dedicated services to families like yours.

​

In 2022, I became the Strategic Wellness Director for Lexipol, a nationwide company supporting over 11,000 first responder departments. This role allowed me to consult with first responders and chiefs on wellness and family support across the nation, while also building content and resources tailored to their needs. I’ve written numerous articles and recorded webinars on first responder and family wellness for platforms like Police1.com, FireRescue1.com, EMS1.com, Lexipol, the FBI National Academy Associates (FBINAA), and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF).

​

I’ve also had the honor of speaking at conferences across the country, including as a keynote speaker for Fire-Rescue International and at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA. I’ve addressed audiences at various police and fire chief conferences nationwide, including events hosted by the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

​

My mission is simple: to provide meaningful, practical support to first responder families like yours. I understand the stressors, the sacrifices, and the incredible resilience that come with being part of a first responder family, and I’m here to help your family thrive, both at home and in the community.