About Us
Dr. Ward Hudson, Supervisor and Lead Counselor
Dr. James Ward Hudson is a distinguished figure in the fields of counseling for veterans, counseling first responders, and mental health, known for his extensive contributions as an educator, supervisor, and author. His work spans numerous facets of the mental health profession, particularly focusing on the needs of veterans and active military personnel. A veteran of the United States Air Force (USAF), Dr. Hudson's personal experiences have profoundly informed his professional journey and commitment to serving those who have served their country.
Dr. Hudson completed his educational journey with a robust academic foundation in psychology and counseling. He pursued advanced degrees that equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective therapy and support to individuals facing various mental health challenges. His academic pursuits led him to engage in both clinical practice and teaching, where he became deeply involved in the formation of future counselors.
In his role as a counseling supervisor, Dr. Hudson has dedicated himself to mentoring emerging mental health professionals. His commitment to developing future leaders in counseling ensures that therapists are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of mental health issues. Through supervision, he provides critical feedback, guidance, and support, which are essential for the growth and success of new counselors. This role is particularly significant in a military context, where mental health challenges can be unique and often require specialized knowledge and understanding.
Dr. Hudson's work with veterans has been particularly impactful. He understands the mental health challenges that can arise from military service, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. By focusing on the unique psychological needs of veterans, he has worked to develop programs and initiatives that address these issues directly. His efforts contribute to a greater understanding of the transition challenges faced by veterans as they reintegrate into civilian life.
As an author, Dr. Hudson has contributed valuable literature to the field of counseling. His writings often draw from his experiences both as a military veteran and a practitioner in mental health. He provides insights on therapeutic techniques, program development, and the importance of culturally competent care, especially within military contexts. His books and articles serve as essential resources for both seasoned professionals and those new to the field, making complex topics accessible and applicable.
In addition to his clinical and supervisory roles, Dr. Hudson is actively involved in research, exploring innovative approaches to mental health care and counseling practices. His research often emphasizes evidence-based practices and the importance of integrating current findings into therapeutic methodologies. His commitment to continuous learning and improvement reflects his dedication to the mental health profession and advocacy for effective mental health care.
Dr. Hudson’s contributions extend beyond academia and clinical practice; he is also deeply engaged in community outreach and advocacy efforts. He speaks at conferences, workshops, and seminars, sharing his expertise and raising awareness about mental health issues affecting veterans and the broader community. His advocacy work aims to destigmatize mental health care and encourage individuals to seek help, fostering a culture of openness and support.
In summary, Dr. James Ward Hudson is a notable counseling supervisor, USAF veteran, and author who has made significant contributions to the field of mental health. His work focuses on mentoring new counselors, addressing the needs of veterans, and advancing the profession through education and research. Dr. Hudson’s legacy is characterized by his unwavering commitment to improving mental health outcomes for individuals, particularly those who have bravely served in the military.
Sierra Smith
Sierra Smith is licensed as a professional counselor associate in Texas and is a graduate of the University of Phoenix, where she earned her master of science in clinical mental health counseling. She currently practices under the clinical supervision of Dr. James Ward Hudson and is dedicated to providing evidence-based, trauma-informed counseling services that promote emotional wellness, resilience, and long-term personal growth.
Sierra brings more than six years of professional experience in social services and behavioral health, including specialized experience in crisis intervention and community mental health support throughout Hood, Erath, Somervell, Johnson, Parker, and Palo Pinto counties. Her background has equipped her with extensive experience assisting individuals and families navigating mental health crises, trauma-related challenges, emotional distress, and life transitions across diverse populations and settings.
Raised in Hood County as the daughter of a law enforcement officer and emergency dispatcher, Sierra developed an early understanding of the unique demands, stressors, and sacrifices associated with first responder culture. Combined with her upbringing in a faith-centered home where her parents served in ministry leadership, these experiences cultivated a strong commitment to service, compassion, and advocacy for others. Her personal and professional background provides her with a unique perspective and passion for supporting first responders, veterans, and their families.
Sierra is particularly passionate about helping individuals strengthen emotional awareness, improve coping strategies, and foster healthy personal development within a safe, supportive, and clinically grounded therapeutic environment. She is committed to collaborating with clients to help them navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve meaningful and lasting growth. Through a compassionate and client-centered approach, Sierra strives to empower individuals and families while promoting healing, self-understanding, and overall psychological well-being.
Chaplain John M. Hosea COO
John M. Hosea is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas with extensive expertise in trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), crisis response, and behavioral health within high-risk populations. With a unique background that combines advanced clinical training, military operational experience, and faith-based counseling, John Hosea provides a comprehensive and integrative approach to mental health, resilience, and human performance under stress.
John M. Hosea holds a Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry with an emphasis in biblical studies. He has earned two master’s degrees—one in mental health and wellness and another in clinical mental health counseling, both with a specialization in trauma. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in psychology with an emphasis on performance and trauma, further advancing his expertise in the intersection of human performance, stress, and resilience.
He is licensed as a professional counselor (LPC) in Texas and holds additional licensure as a licensed professional counselor associate (LPC-A) in Nevada. His professional credentials also include being a Licensed Biblical Counselor and a Licensed Life Coach through multiple organizations. His extensive certifications include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Certified Sex Therapist, Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), Certified Critical Incident Counselor, Trauma-Informed Care, Pastoral Counseling, and FBI Regional Crisis/Hostage Negotiation. He is also certified through the International Conference of Police Chaplains (ICPC), trained in human trafficking intervention, and serves as a master trainer for Reboot Combat Recovery, First Responder Recovery, and Trauma Recovery programs. He is also a certified master trainer for the Department of Defense and the Department of the Army. Additionally, he is an ordained, multidenominational minister. He is also John, the lead chaplain for the Hood County Sheriff's Dept. and assistant team leader for the region 8 Special Operations Group hostage and crisis negotiator.
Prior to his clinical career, John M. Hosea served in the United States Army and Department of Defense in multiple high-level operational roles. His experience includes serving as a sniper with operational deployment experience, a small group tactics leader, a master instructor, and a Centurion jumpmaster. He has held leadership roles in high-risk operational environments, including serving at the command and intelligence level in special operations. He also served as a senior drill instructor and advanced combatives senior instructor and was responsible for training in tactical decision-making, combat stress, and resilience. His experience includes joint operations, interagency coordination, and advising on behavioral health and resilience for military personnel. He maintains a Top Secret SSI/CI clearance.
Clinically, John M. Hosea specializes in trauma and PTSD treatment for military personnel, veterans, first responders, and individuals exposed to critical incidents. His competencies include crisis intervention, suicide prevention and postvention, EMDR and evidence-based trauma therapies, grief and bereavement counseling, marriage and family systems, sexual health, and addiction counseling. He is highly experienced in crisis negotiation, de-escalation, and group therapy facilitation, particularly within military and first responder populations. A distinguishing aspect of his work is the integration of clinical counseling with faith-based and spiritual care, offering a holistic approach to healing and recovery.
In addition to his clinical work, John M. Hosea serves in multiple leadership and advisory roles. He is a board member for the Texas Governor’s Suicide Prevention Initiative and actively contributes to statewide efforts in mental health policy, suicide prevention, and crisis response. He serves as a firefighter and first responder mental health provider and has been instrumental in developing behavioral health programs for military and first responder communities. His leadership experience includes serving as a board member for Battleforged Nation, former Quick Reaction Force Director, Senior Vice President for Wounded Warrior Athletics, and membership in the Purple Heart Association and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), where he holds lifetime membership.
John M. Hosea is widely recognized for his ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in high-stress environments and for developing innovative models that integrate clinical, operational, and spiritual approaches to trauma recovery. His areas of specialization include trauma and complex PTSD, crisis and critical incident response, performance psychology, military and first responder behavioral health, and the integration of clinical counseling with biblical and spiritual care.
Through his combined experience in clinical practice, military operations, leadership, and ministry, John M. Hosea brings a rare and authoritative perspective to the fields of trauma, resilience, and human performance—serving those who operate on the front lines of crisis with competence, compassion, and integrity.
Sara B. Hosea, B.S.
Social Work & Case Management Specialist
Sara B. Hosea is a highly dedicated and compassionate social work professional with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, bringing a strong clinical foundation in case management, behavioral health support, and trauma-informed care. She is committed to delivering ethical, client-centered services that promote stability, resilience, and long-term healing for individuals and families facing complex life challenges.
Sara’s clinical approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques, trauma-informed care models, and structured crisis intervention strategies. She is trained in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) through the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF), equipping her to respond effectively to individuals and families impacted by acute stress, trauma exposure, and critical incidents. Her ability to remain steady and focused in high-stress situations allows her to provide both immediate stabilization and ongoing support.
Throughout her work in case management, Sara has developed strong competencies in biopsychosocial assessments, individualized service planning, resource coordination, and continuity of care. She is skilled in identifying underlying needs, advocating for clients, and connecting them with appropriate community resources, while also addressing emotional and behavioral health concerns. Her approach ensures that care is not only responsive but also proactive, empowering clients to build sustainable coping strategies and life skills.
Sara has extensive experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and major life transitions. She utilizes a strengths-based and solution-focused framework, helping clients recognize their inherent value while developing practical tools for emotional regulation, cognitive restructuring, and personal growth. She is particularly effective in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance, creating an environment where clients feel safe, respected, and understood.
A significant focus of Sara’s work is serving first responder families, with a specialized emphasis on wives and children. She understands the unique pressures associated with careers in law enforcement, fire service, EMS, and other high-risk professions, including chronic stress exposure, shift-related strain, emotional withdrawal, and secondary trauma within the home. Sara provides targeted support to help families navigate these challenges by strengthening communication, promoting emotional awareness, and building resilience within the family system. Her work helps restore connection, reinforce healthy relational patterns, and create a sense of safety and stability for all family members.
In addition to her clinical expertise, Sara brings a strong faith-based perspective to her work. She integrates biblical principles and spiritually grounded practices when appropriate, recognizing the importance of addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. She believes that true healing involves not only clinical intervention but also spiritual renewal, identity restoration, and a renewed sense of purpose. Her approach is rooted in values of grace, truth, compassion, and accountability, offering clients both professional guidance and hope-centered support.
At Jumpmaster Life Coaches and Counseling, Sara plays a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission to equip individuals and families to overcome adversity and thrive. She is deeply committed to walking alongside those she serves, offering consistent support, clinical excellence, and faith-centered encouragement throughout the healing process.
Sara’s passion for service, combined with her clinical skill set and spiritual insight, allows her to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of her clients—helping them move from crisis to stability and from survival to purpose-driven living.
