Brandon Alonso came to mental health care with a clear sense of purpose: to make therapy feel safe, accessible, and genuinely useful — especially for people who have been historically excluded from mental health spaces. As a LatinX Bronx native, Brandon brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to his work, believing that representation in the therapy room is not just meaningful, but necessary.
Specialty & Approach to Therapy
Brandon works with adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, identity development, and major life transitions. He has extensive experience with men’s issues, the criminal justice system, couples counseling, and trauma-informed care. He also has a particular passion for supporting patients from diverse cultural backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Brandon’s approach is integrative and built around the person. His work is focused on understanding the deeper patterns and experiences that shape how someone feels and functions today. From there, he draws from a range of evidence-based approaches — including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness — adapting the work to each patient’s needs. Whether that means processing deeper emotional wounds or building practical tools to get through the week, he tailors the work to where each person is.
Advice for Those Seeking Mental Health Care
Brandon’s message to anyone starting therapy for the first time is simple: you don’t need to have it all figured out before you begin. “Sometimes the first step is simply showing up and allowing yourself to be supported. Seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness. It is a meaningful act of care for yourself. It takes immense courage to look inward, ask for help, and choose healing.”
When choosing a provider, Brandon encourages people to pay attention to how they feel in the room. “Do you feel listened to? Respected? Safe enough to be honest at your own pace? Those things matter as much as credentials and specialties. The right fit takes time, and that’s okay.”
Finding Balance Through Self-Care
After a full day, Brandon heads home to his dog Maui, who has a way of making everything feel a little more joyful. He stays grounded through music, working out, playing video games, and spending time with loved ones. He also regularly attends therapy — something he sees as part of honoring his beliefs. For Brandon, self-care is about staying connected to the things that make him feel present, balanced, and human.
Brandon and the rest of the Rivia Mind team are here when you’re ready. Reach out to learn more or find a clinician who aligns with your needs.
