We are so excited to introduce you to Heather Twedell this week.
Heather is a wife, a mom of two and Licensed Psychologist/Consultant and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.
We were lucky enough to be introduced to Heather through Megan’s mom who works with Dr. Heather Twedell through Our Watch, a charity that provides equine assisted therapy dedicated to First Responders and their families.
Dr. Heather Twedell’s work with first responders, along with her family ties to law enforcement, gives her a strong appreciation and understanding of the culture and stressors specific to first responders.
We are honored to know her and are inspired by the work she does. Learn a little bit more about Heather and her family in our interview with her below!
XO – M&M
Tell us a little bit about you!
Hi! My name is Heather. I am new to Texas and so grateful for the connection to Frisco Area Moms! My husband and I met in college and we have two sweet kiddos (ages 4 and 2) who keep us on our toes. My husband is a physical therapist and I am a licensed psychologist with a background in forensics and a specialty in working with First Responders. We love staying active, being outdoors, spending time with extended family, working on projects around the house, and we try to not take ourselves too seriously. We truly love exploring all the newness that Texas brings to our lives.
- How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
My son, Turner, is 4 and my daughter, Cayden, will be 2 in a few weeks!
- What’s your favorite thing about being a mom?
LESSONS. Daily lessons. Even though there are moments where I may not willingly acknowledge this, but I am so grateful that there is never a part of motherhood that is completely figured out. This fluid dynamic mandates acceptance that we are vulnerable in this process; and in that, I feel is where growth happens. Whether it’s humility, appreciation, perspective, learning my tolerance and how I regulate myself in those moments, slowing down (way down), or coming to grips with the reality that it is definitely not always going to go as I had planned it out in my head; my children continue to help shape me into a more well-rounded human.
- How did you end up in Frisco?
Both my husband and I were born and raised in Southern California. It is what we’ve known our whole lives and holds so many memories and relationships that are still close to my heart. In the last few years, multiple factors started to shift and we decided that we wanted something different for our growing family. When we started looking at the possibilities of moving out of state, Texas seemed to check many of the boxes we were seeking when it came to our values, community, and lifestyle.
- What do you love about Frisco?
There is so much to do here! Whether you’re in the mood for the simplicities of being out in nature or wanting to experience some bustle of city life, we feel like Frisco offers it all. We love watching this city shine as it seems to be transforming on a daily basis. The architecture and landscaping is stunning. Every addition seems to be done so with great detail and consideration on how it contributes to the character of this city. It is clear that residents take pride in their community in they way they treat the places and people with respect. On that note, the PEOPLE. The authenticity in how people treat each other is refreshing, and something that we feel proud to be a part of and to model to our children.
- What’s your favorite restaurant in Frisco?
Ah! I can only pick one? I’m a sucker for Mexican food (chips and salsa consumed at all hours of the day) so I’ll go with Mariana’s Taco Shop. So so good with a cute little outdoor patio area.
- What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco?
When I mean business- NordstromRack. When I want to window shop and take my time- LegacyWest or the Shops at Legacy (Plano, not Frisco)
- What’s your favorite thing to do when you need some “me time”?
Go for a run. Guaranteed to get me in a healthier head space; every time.
- Tell us about your career.
I am a licensed psychologist; my doctorate is in Forensic Psychology and I specialize in First Responders and the impact of their occupational-stress. My clinical experience has afforded me the opportunity to work in a women’s prison, hospitals, ERs, and for a large Sheriff’s Department. In my current private practice, for both First Responders and non-First Responders, I provide evaluations, individual/couples/family/group therapy, and critical incident debriefs. I utilize evidence-based treatment while working collaboratively with the client towards healthy growth and goals. I also provide consultation and trainings for local fire and police departments. In 2019, I had the privilege of joining a non-profit organization, OurWatch, providing Equine Assisted Wellness and Resiliency Training for First Responders and their Families. The constant exposure to threat, trauma, and stress that First Responders experience is impactful and if not managed can significantly affect not only the First Responder but his/her entire support system. Providing wellness and resiliency training for this deserving population is so critical and I am honored to offer my support and assistance, whether it’s in my office or out at the ranch with horses. You can learn more about my background at www.ccanorthtexas.com and at www.ourwatchtx.org.
- What do you love about your career?
Every human is deserving of connection. Being able to provide support and tools so that individuals can take active steps towards a healthier version of themselves is what keeps me inspired and motivated. I truly love what I do and I have learned greatly from my clients. I am extremely grateful that I am able to provide my services through so many different avenues (horses, trainings, therapy, consulting). This keeps me focused, skilled, and allows for creativity.
- What is one thing you look forward to every year?
The changing of seasons.
- How do you juggle your career with being a mom and wife?
First, having the support and encouragement from my husband means everything. I’m not sure how he stays so grounded in this crazy life, but his consistency and reassurance keeps me sane. His partnership is truly the main reason why I am able to juggle it all. Second, I have the most selfless family members who I lean on. A lot. Lots of leaning. Finally, as for myself, I do my best to be as intentional as possible. Whether it’s with how I manage my time, who I dedicate that time to and when, learning when to say no, giving myself permission for self-care, and doing my best to be present with what is in front of me. I’ve always been someone who wants to do and see it all. That was great when I was younger and my plate wasn’t as full, but that approach can easily leave me overwhelmed and, honestly, disappointed. I have learned that slowing down with intention is far more rewarding than speeding through just to cover more ground.
- What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
Taking care of you istaking care of your children.
- What’s one fun fact about you?
I can sing the national anthem with my mouth shut.