Next up in our new clinicians to spotlight is Joshua Boyce, LCSW. Joshua is a therapist with experience across a wide range of patients and specialties. He began his training as a therapist in Indiana and now works virtually from our Massachusetts office. We spoke to Joshua recently about his work in mental wellness and how he came to Rivia Mind. Here’s what he had to say:
Education & Background
Joshua gained his Master of Social Work from Indiana University in 2016. But his idea of his career was much different.
“My initial goal in becoming a social worker was to be an advocate for change, both social and political,” Joshua explained. “I imagined myself pushing for a kinder, gentler world in the halls of power. However, upon completion of my program, I found that there was a great need in my community (a rural community with high poverty rates and a severe opioid epidemic) for mental health providers. That’s what drew me into becoming a therapist.”
As a therapist, he has worked with a vast array of treatment areas, but noted that most of his experience has been helping patients address depression, anxiety, life transitions, and exploration of existential concerns such as meaning and purpose in life.
However, while the focus of his career has changed, the driving passion is much the same. “I remain passionate about advocating for positive change in our world, and I always keep an eye on how the current political and social environment is impacting the overall wellbeing of my patients.”
Approach to Therapy
Joshua offers a warm, relational, and person-centered approach to psychotherapy. He takes an integrative approach to psychotherapy, drawing on psychodynamic therapy, humanistic and transpersonal therapy, and third wave therapeutic approaches such as acceptance and commitment therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. These approaches allow him to customize treatment to the needs of each patient he works with.
Joining Rivia Mind
Although Joshua has only been with Rivia Mind for a short time, he’s enjoyed that time here and said he’s excited to be part of the team! “Every Rivia Mind employee that I’ve engaged with thus far — from my initial interview to my onboarding — has been very friendly and helpful.”
We’re excited to have Joshua on our team, as well!
Advice To Those Seeking Mental Health Treatment
Joshua interacts with a variety of patients, including those who are seeking mental health treatments for the first time. This is what he has to say to those looking for a mental health provider or trying out therapy the first time.
“A person should feel safe and comfortable with the provider they’re seeing. They should feel seen, heard, and valued as a human being. If you’re not feeling this way after a few sessions with a provider, consider giving someone else a try.”
He also noted that many patients worry that their therapist might judge them or think poorly of them when they start therapy, and that it’s important to know therapists might be more understanding than you realize.
“What I wish more people knew is that we are people, too, and not immune to the challenges of life,” he said. “We have our own struggles, just like you.”
Self-Care For the Clinician
Everyone needs a way to unwind when the working day is done, including our skilled and compassionate clinicians. For Joshua, what does that look like?
“Time with my wife and children is how I spend the majority of my non-working hours,” he said. “I also love reading — particularly about topics that are relevant to the work I do — and time outdoors. Additionally, I try to integrate as many ‘mindful moments’ as possible into my day. I am spiritual, but not religious, and I enjoy learning about spiritual practices that are new to me.”
If you’re interested in booking a therapy appointment with Joshua or another skilled clinician, Rivia is here for you. We currently have appointments offered within 24-28 hours. Contact us today to learn more and book your first appointment.
