Frontside Counseling

Jason Helmlinger, M.A. is a trauma counselor with a unique background integrating neuroscience-informed therapy, ministry, and over 20 years of frontline law enforcement experience. He began his career in 1995, serving in patrol, SWAT, organized crime, and violent crimes investigations, with a focus on sexual assault and high-risk cases. His combined experience as a peer support leader, ordained pastor, and trauma clinician gives him a deep understanding of the emotional and nervous system impact of high-stress service professions.

Jason specializes in working with first responders, couples, families, and individuals impacted by trauma and crisis. He currently serves as a contractor and trauma counselor for the Virginia State Police, supporting first responders following critical incidents and cumulative line-of-duty stress.

Education & Credentials

• Doctoral Candidate in Traumatology - Liberty University (focus: neuroscience of trauma)

• M.A. in Crisis Response & Trauma Counseling - Liberty University

• Former Board Member, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

• Ordained Pastor (since 2009)

• 20+ year veteran law enforcement officer

• B.S. in Criminal Justice - Virginia Commonwealth University

Advanced Training & Certifications

• Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)

• Polyvagal Theory & Nervous System Regulation

• Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)

• Rest & Restore Protocol (RRP)

• Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)

• Trauma-Informed Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Solution-Focused Brief Therapy

• Compassion Fatigue Practitioner (Green Cross Academy of Traumatology)

• Master Certification in Mental Health Coaching (Light University)

• Cognitive Fitness Coach (My Steady Mind)

• Prepare/Enrich Facilitator (Marriage Assessment & Counseling)

Jason’s passion is helping people heal, build resilience, and flourish, especially those who spend their lives helping others.