Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Flores.
Hi Anna, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Why did I go from cop to counselor? It’s cliché to say I love helping others, but as a cop you’re limited in how much you can truly help. It feels good to make an impact in the moment, but I often found myself wanting to do more—for victims of crime, for families, and for my community. Over time, I noticed something alarming: mental health calls were becoming more frequent than even family violence calls. And yet, police officers are expected to be everything at once—cops, heroes, teachers, counselors, and doctors—often in just a matter of minutes.
The reality is, cops go through a lot themselves. We’re human, we make mistakes, and while we’re trained to protect, we’re not trained enough to handle the complexities of mental health crises. For example, when we’re dispatched to someone holding a knife—which is a deadly weapon—we can’t just step out of the vehicle and immediately know if it’s a person in the middle of a mental health episode or someone intentionally trying to commit a violent crime. We’re trained to protect others and eliminate the threat in doing so. That split-second uncertainty is one of the hardest parts of the job.
Being constantly hyper-vigilant takes a toll. We cope by becoming desensitized, because that’s survival in a dangerous job. But I knew I wanted to understand more—not only to help the public, but to help those wearing the badge. That’s why I went back to school to focus on first responders. I also went to therapy myself while serving as a cop, and it was life-changing. My therapist was a reserve officer, and that connection inspired me. It showed me firsthand the power of having someone who gets it.
Now, as a counselor, my goal is to be that person for others. I want first responders to know they don’t have to carry it all alone, and I want the community to know healing is possible even after crisis. I’ve walked in those shoes, and now I’m committed to walking beside others as they find their way forward.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s been a bittersweet journey. Leaving law enforcement was one of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make because I truly loved being a police officer. A part of me still wishes I could be both a cop and a therapist, but I’ve come to realize that I’m only human and need to create space to enjoy life with my family as well. The biggest struggle has been accepting that, while my role has changed, I’m still serving and helping others—just in a more meaningful and lifelong way.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Eagle Insight Counseling ?
I bring a unique perspective to counseling as a former police officer who has transitioned into the mental health field. My practice is centered on supporting first responders and individuals in high-stress careers, because I know firsthand the challenges that come with those roles. What sets me apart is that I don’t just understand the clinical side of therapy—I’ve lived the experience. I know the culture, the language, and the weight of the job in a way that most therapists can’t.
I’m most proud that my work helps bridge the gap between the world of law enforcement and the world of counseling. Many first responders are hesitant to reach out for support because they feel misunderstood, but my background allows me to create a space where they feel seen and truly understood. My goal is to help break the stigma around mental health in high-stress professions and show that strength includes asking for help.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I owe a lot of my growth and success to Kelli, whom I work for. She saw potential in me early on and took me under her wing when I was just starting this new chapter. She believed in me and gave me the chance to prove myself, even when it meant taking a risk. Her support, guidance, and encouragement have made a huge impact, and I can honestly say I wouldn’t be where I am today without her. I’m beyond grateful to have had someone like her believe in me.
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