It’s time for another clinician spotlight! Today, we’re shining the light on Sharon Medina, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who joined us at Rivia Mind in March of 2023. Sharon is a bilingual, bicultural, and trauma-informed therapist providing psychotherapy services. She has a passion and sensitivity for working with clients from diverse backgrounds and populations.
We talked to Sharon recently about her career in mental wellness and what brought her to Rivia Mind.
Education and Mental Health Work
Sharon Medina graduated from Fordham University with a Masters degree in Social Work. She decided to pursue a career in mental wellness in order to decrease the stigma about mental illness. It was important to her to help people improve their mental health outcomes and become more aware of issues that can trigger mental illness such as a poor work/life balance or traumatic experiences.
“I love to work with people who are currently experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders stemming from trauma and/or everyday stressors,” she explains. “I am passionate about working with people from disadvantaged populations as I want to increase the quality of care they receive.”
Approach to Therapy and Specialty
Sharon primarily focuses on disadvantaged populations, helping them to “engage in meaningful conversations about mental health and overall wellness.” “ I also make it my personal mission to help others decrease the stigma attached to mental health,” she adds.
Sharon specializes in mood disorders, especially those informed by trauma. She describes her approach to therapy as collaborative and educational. “I want my clients to know that I am here to listen to their lived experiences, educate them on clinical concepts/ideas/interventions and help them figure out what practical skills they can apply daily to help improve their overall functioning.” She also works to teach her clients practical coping skills to regulate their emotion regulation and practice daily self-care.
“Since joining Rivia Mind, I have enjoyed working with a wonderful variety of clients,” she says. “I also love the fact that my clients have access to medication management if they so choose to explore this option.”
Advice to Individuals Going Into Therapy
When asked what advice Sharon would give someone considering going into therapy for the first time, she said this: “First, keep an open mind. The first few sessions may feel ‘weird’ or even uncomfortable as you start to open up about issues, but rest assured that your confidentiality and privacy is of utmost importance. Anything asked helps the provider tailor interventions for your care. Keep a list of questions you may have and/or things that come up during the week so that you can process them in session.”
She also points out that it’s important to find a mental wellness provider with practical knowledge of their specific issues, and to set at least one goal before going into your first therapy session.
Unwinding at the End of the Day
At the end of the day, therapists have to unwind and destress, as well. So how does Sharon Medina take care of herself when the work day is done?
“I unwind by playing with my dog, reading a few pages of a book I am interested in, and laughing!” she says. “I choose to watch comedies in order to help trigger a relaxation response in me. My self-care is small daily actions: hydrating, practicing gratitude, moving my body, etc.”
Rivia Mind is proud to work with skilled and compassionate clinician like Sharon. When you need a mental health provider, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.
