Listen "Ep 132: The Cop Doc"
Episode Synopsis
Being married to law enforcement isn't easy — the stress, the trauma, the long hours, and the silence can leave police spouses feeling invisible and alone. In this episode, Dr. Ellen Kirschman, author of I Love a Cop, shares what every law enforcement couple needs to know about protecting their relationship and building resilience as a first responder family. Episode Summary (value + takeaways) In this conversation with Dr. Ellen Kirschman, we cover: Why law enforcement families often feel unsupported and isolated How trauma and stigma impact police officers and their spouses The reality of burnout for both officers and partners Resources like I Love a Cop and the First Responder Support Network retreats Practical advice for spouses to set boundaries, find balance, and reconnect Dr. Ellen Kirschman is an award-winning police psychologist, author of I Love a Cop, Counseling Cops, and the Dot Meyerhoff mystery series. She has worked with law enforcement families for over 40 years and volunteers with the First Responder Support Network in California. 📖 Grab your copy of Hold the Line: Protecting Your Law Enforcement Relationship → https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Line-Protecting-Enforcement-Relationship-ebook/dp/B08TPRTY9G#customerReviews 🎤 Want Cyndi to speak at your agency or retreat? Book here → https://code4couples.com/training/ 00:00 – Welcome & intro 02:00 – Who is Dr. Ellen Kirschman? 06:00 – The origins of I Love a Cop 14:00 – Why police families feel isolated 20:00 – Trauma, PTSD, and first responder retreats 30:00 – Burnout for spouses & families 40:00 – Police marriage advice & communication 55:00 – Closing thoughts
More episodes of the podcast Code4Couples
Ep 171: When Trauma Doesn't Stay Boxed Up
30/10/2025
Ep 170: Alcohol and First Responder Culture
16/10/2025
Ep 168: Heart Disease in Law Enforcement
18/09/2025
ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.