Many of Rivia Mind’s clinicians have shared their experiences of developing a passion to help people in the field of mental wellness — whether tackling quality of care disparities across communities or being driven by their own mental wellness journeys. It was one such experience that put Jessica Matthews, LCSW, on the path towards a masters degree in social work and eventually a career in therapy.
We recently spoke with Jessica about her work in mental wellness, where it all began and where she is now.
Education & Background
Jessica Matthews graduated from University of New Hampshire with a masters degree in social work. She began a career in therapy treating patients from childhood to late life specializing in grief, as well as working with adjustment disorders, life transitions, anxiety, and relationship issues. She currently focuses on the adult population in her career as she works towards a PhD in Developmental Psychology.
Specialization & Approach to Therapy
Jessica’s choice to specialize in grief came at a young age, and after a personal experience. “I lost a classmate in high school that had a profound impact on me, enough to help me decide that mental health was the career path I wanted to take.”
This combined with her passion to help people eventually brought her to where she is today. “While not necessary to have, experiences do allow us to relate in a way that you can’t necessarily without those experiences. My personal experiences have created a passion to help those struggling with the same, giving hope that there is treatment and there is relief, and they can overcome this challenge…It’s hard navigating through life, and sometimes we are alone in that. My goal has always been to be that someone that cares enough to make a difference.”
She also specializes in anxiety, and sees quite a bit of intersection between anxiety and grief. “Both areas start by utilizing psychoeducation; understanding what anxiety and grief are and how they impact us. Therapy is really great at helping you learn coping skills, how to manage symptoms, how to process thoughts and grief, and change overall perspectives on these challenges.”
She adds about grief specifically, “One thing I like to reiterate about grief therapy is that you will never stop missing and loving the one you lost because grief is an extension of love and you will never forget that person. You will more than likely experience sadness from time to time, even after they have passed. However, therapy helps with acceptance, learning how to move forward in life, and how to keep them a part of your life.”
Jessica has a “laid back,” evidence-based approach to therapy that she tailors to her patient’s needs, understanding that each patient is different. “I don’t begin the therapeutic relationship with too many expectations and my main focus is on building rapport. It’s hard opening up to a stranger and I want to make sure to create an environment that is conducive to comfort and trust.”
Working With Rivia Mind
We’re glad to have a passionate clinician like Jessica working with us at Rivia Mind. But what has the experience been like for her?
“Rivia Mind is a place where you don’t just work, you become a part of a family and highly trained, passionate, and dedicated staff. People at Rivia really care, not just about their patients but about their staff, as well. I have never felt more welcomed and more supported in a job. This helps me be the best therapist that I can be!”
Advice To Those New To Therapy
Beginning therapy for the first time can seem intimidating, but Jessica says it helps to have a mental health provider who “gets you.” “Someone who you can relate to, who has a style and approach that will work for you, someone who you feel comfortable with.”
She also says that she notices patients worry about terminating their work with a therapist who is a bad fit. While this is understandable, it can also be detrimental to your mental health journey, which is the important thing. “I can assure you that I do not get offended if we aren’t a good fit. I am much more concerned about you getting the help you need, if that’s not me, then let’s connect you with someone who is going to be a better fit. There are never any hard feelings.”
Jessica acknowledges that starting therapy is hard, but worth it. “You deserve healing, you deserve to be happy, and you deserve to live the life you’ve always imagined for yourself. It’s hard, it takes a lot of work on your end, it will sometimes feel like you’re going backwards, and you will sometimes feel worse after therapy. Know that this is normal, but you will see positive changes if you hang in there and do the work consistently. Your therapist is there for you and a support to help you through it!”
Self-Care For the Clinician
Self-care is important not just for patients, but for the clinicians themselves. This can be an intense job, and self-care can help clinicians like Jessica feel refreshed and better able to help their patients.
“My self-care looks like starting my day with exercise,” she describes. “This probably sounds silly, but I like making my bed first thing. For some reason, this helps me feel more put together through the day. I eat a well-balanced diet to keep me energized throughout the day as well.”
There’s also the time spent on the weekend or time off when she gets a break from work. “On the weekend, I’m spending time with my family and friends, sometimes staying in and binging on a show, reading a book, baking, or crafting. In the summer months, I do a lot of camping, hiking, having fires, and long bike rides. My dogs are a very important piece of my life so they go where I go! We love long walks, too!”
Looking for a skilled and compassionate clinician like Jessica to help you through your journey to mental wellness? Contact Rivia Mind today to learn more or to begin with a free 15-minute consultation.
