Meet Our Team

Portrait of a middle-aged Caucasian man with short, spiky gray hair, wearing round black glasses, a dark suit, light blue shirt, and patterned tie, smiling against a gray background.
Portrait of a middle-aged Caucasian man with short, spiky gray hair, wearing round black glasses, a dark suit, light blue shirt, and patterned tie, smiling against a gray background.

Dr. Buster Lackey, PhD, LPC-S, CIT-C

Founder/CEO

Dr. Buster Lackey brings more than two decades of combined experience in behavioral health, crisis response, and public safety to First Watch Psychological Institute. His professional background includes service as an elected County Constable, Chief Deputy Coroner, Fire/EMS responder, and behavioral-health consultant for the FBI’s Crisis Negotiation Unit.

Throughout his career, Dr. Lackey has helped public-safety agencies develop wellness initiatives, behavioral-health programs, and practical systems that support personnel before, during, and after critical incidents. As a counselor, author, educator, and keynote speaker, he is known for translating complex psychological principles into relatable, real-world guidance. His work is grounded in clinical expertise, lived public-safety experience, and a commitment to strengthening the resilience of those who serve.

United by service. Grounded in experience. Committed to those who serve.

A young man with short dark hair, wearing a navy suit jacket and a white dress shirt, smiling at the camera against a plain gray background.
A young man with short dark hair, wearing a navy suit jacket and a white dress shirt, smiling at the camera against a plain gray background.

Austin Edgar

Director of Engagement

Austin Edgar brings experience in military service, law enforcement, therapeutic programming, crisis response, and private-security operations to First Watch Psychological Institute. He served six years in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Sergeant while working as a CBRN specialist and Black Hawk helicopter crew chief.

Following his military service, Austin worked as a patrol officer and later as a narcotics agent and detective with a state- and federally supported drug task force. He also served as Adventure Therapy Manager at CALO Programs, helping lead experiential programming focused on confidence, relationships, and resilience. At First Watch, Austin supports agency outreach, strategic partnerships, and program development, helping connect public-safety organizations with psychological services, training, and resources shaped around the realities of their work.