Not everyone in the world of mental healthcare began their career that way. At Rivia Mind, our skilled and compassionate clinicians are driven to help people, and that can manifest in a number of different ways. This was true for Erin Jackson, LCSW, who moved from a career in law enforcement to a more clinical approach to helping others.
We recently spoke to Erin about her career in mental wellness and welcomed her to the Rivia Mind team. Here is what we learned:
Education and Background
Erin Jackson has been in the field of human services for nearly two decades. Though she began with a career in law enforcement, she gradually began to feel a calling towards a different perspective of human services.
“As the world began to change and discrepancies within the legal system became more overt,” she explained. “I wanted to continue to serve my community in a way where individuals would not be penalized for their shortcomings, substance use issues, or unaddressed mental health issues. As such, I decided to make the shift from law enforcement to pursue more clinical work with individuals, families, and groups.”
She attended grad school at Fordham University and gained a masters in social services, focusing on clinical social work. “I wanted to be able to support individuals in navigating complex life issues without punitive consequences.”
Specialty and Approach to Therapy
One of Erin’s primary specialties is trauma informed psychotherapy. “Trauma informed psychotherapy allows the opportunity to support individuals, groups, families, and couples in having ‘hard conversations.’ It creates a safe space to process difficult experiences, engage in the development and collaboration of productive coping mechanisms, assists in improving distress tolerance, and sets the tone for facilitating healing.”
Erin describes her approach to therapy as authentic, genuine, empathetic, and direct, all traits needed when dealing with heavy issues of trauma.
Advice For Those Beginning Therapy
Beginning therapy can be scary at the beginning, but luckily our clinicians always have advice for those starting out. Here’s what Erin had to say:
“Therapy is not easy. It requires an intense level of vulnerability that at times can feel uncomfortable. But with therapeutic support and guidance, when the work is put in, the results can be life changing — for the better!”
Of choosing a mental health provider, she suggests considering what you desire in a therapeutic alliance and seeking someone who has the experience and flexibility needed to support treatment goals.
Self-Care For the Clinician
Erin Jackson is great at helping to take care of her patients, but what does she do for self-care? Erin enjoys taking a walk and spending time in nature to soothe herself, but she also says that “getting a great manicure always feels good.”
Want to begin your mental wellness journey with Erin or with clinicians like Erin? Rivia Mind is here for you. We currently have appointment availability within 24 hours. Book an appointment today to get started.
