It’s time to shine the spotlight on another of our skilled and compassionate clinicians. This week, we’re spotlighting Dana Reszutek, LMSW, one of our newest therapists. Dana began her professional life working in media and sales. However, after some volunteer counseling work, she found her calling in mental healthcare. We talked to Dana recently about her journey towards social work and eventually Rivia Mind.
Education & Background
Dana initially received her BA in Journalism and Psychology from New York University. However, while volunteering at local hospitals as a Rape Crisis Counselor, she found her passion for social work and mental wellness.
“I began…providing advocacy and emotional support to patients in the ER who had experienced sexual assault or domestic violence,” she recalled. “This opportunity made me realize how much I valued others, and I decided to take the step and apply to graduate school. The rest is history!”
Dana then went on to earn her Masters in Social Work from NYU. Since, she has worked in various mental health and community health settings, with a focus on offering accessible services to those experiencing substance abuse, chronic illness, or mental health concerns. “I strive to make therapy an inclusive, affirming space for clients of color and the LGBTQ+ community,” she added.
Specialty & Approach to Therapy
Physical health and mental health are often intertwined, and knowing that led to one of Dana’s specialties as a therapist. “One of my areas of clinical focus is chronic illness,” Dana explained, “and the impact chronic conditions can have on our mental health. This specialty came from a place of personal understanding and desire to validate the prevalence of medical trauma and the impact chronic pain has on our sense of self.”
While people often think of chronic illness as a physical illness, mental health diagnoses can also be considered a chronic illness. And often, the symptoms of one can exacerbate symptoms of the other. “When navigating a medical chronic condition, therapy is a great space to better connect our mind and body, and understand how things like pain or flare-ups can also impact our anxiety and mood.”
She described her approach to therapy as inclusive and collaborative. “I work with clients to create an experience that feels the most comfortable, implementing various modalities to promote healing and wellness. I also try to implement humor into the space (when appropriate) to make therapy relaxing and enjoyable!” Dana is experienced with several types of therapy, but some of the modalities she is most passionate about include: Internal Family Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Harm Reduction.
Joining Rivia Mind
Dana became part of the Rivia Mind team in January of 2024, and we’re so happy to have her. She said of her time here so far, “I most enjoy the sense of community at Rivia. Having collaboration is so important in this field, and Rivia prioritizes this.”
Advice For New Patients
It is a big first step to begin to seek out mental healthcare. To those doing so for the first time, Dana said, “First of all, welcome! You just chose to prioritize your wellness and health. Remember that therapy is what you make of it, and it’s okay to express your needs to your provider — it’s a judgment-free zone.”
She went on to add that the relationship between client and therapist is critical to making progress in therapy. “I always suggest finding a provider that not only focuses on your specific needs or experiences but also someone you feel comfortable speaking with.”
Self-Care For the Clinician
At the end of a long day, our clinicians have to take time to wind down and decompress the same way anyone else would. What does that look like for Dana? “I love listening to music to unwind after work, whether I’m commuting home from the office or signing off for the day at home. I’m also a big Bravo TV fan, and enjoy unwinding with an episode — or two — of Real Housewives. Self-care, to me, looks like taking intentional time to be present, accomplish something I find fulfilling, and spend time with my partner and cat.”
Interested in working with Dana or any of our other skilled and compassionate clinicians? Rivia Mind currently has appointment availability as soon as 24 hours. Contact us today to learn more or to book your first appointment.
