Our team of clinicians at Rivia Mind are not just skilled and caring but passionate about their careers in mental health. That passion drives us to provide the best quality of care for our patients and our community. One example of our passionate clinicians includes Selene Gonzalez, LMSW, our clinician spotlight for today.
We recently spoke with Selene about her career in mental health and how she found her way to Rivia Mind. Here’s what she had to say.
Education and Background
For Selene, the decision to become a therapist came early. “I believe I was created for this work. I’ve always been inclined to not just help people but also seek deeper emotional insight. I also had a high school mentor who was also a therapist, and seeing their impact on hearts intrigued me in a way that no other profession was able to.”
She graduated with a Masters in social work from Nyack College, specializing in clinical social work. She specifically chose a clinical route to mental wellness because, “Person-to-person connections is where I feel most passionate and fulfilled. Helping people make necessary inner connections that lead to life change is a beautiful thing to witness.”
Specialty and Approach to Therapy
Selene specializes in attachment wounds, which she describes as, “An emotional wound to an intimate interdependent relationship. Therapy helps people better understand their attachment style and the origin of unhealthy attachments. It provides tools to help people learn secure attachment styles, which will improve your relationships.”
As for therapy, Selene approaches meetings with patients in a relational and investigative way. “I love to connect with clients but also help them dig into the crevices of their souls to better understand their pain and how to best heal. I also love attachment theory and believe it comes up in most relational issues!”
Joining Rivia Mind
At Rivia Mind, we value teamwork and support, but the most important relationship is that between the clinician and the client. So it’s only fitting that this is Selene’s favorite part of the job. “I mostly enjoy my sessions with clients and helping people sort through life’s hardships,” she said when asked about her favorite thing since joining Rivia Mind.
Advice To Those New to Therapy
The first thing that Selene wanted those who are new to therapy to know is that she’s proud of them. “You took one of the most important steps for your future! The process won’t always feel comfortable but there’s a healthy you waiting on the other side.” The next bit of insight is to find the right provider. “Choose someone who has experience with your specific needs and someone who feels right for you. Don’t feel bad if someone isn’t a good fit; just try again!”
Self-Care For the Clinician
Self-care is important to keep everyone refreshed, and to keep our clinicians better able to help their patients on their journeys to mental health. So what does that look like for Selene? “I read a devotional, eat a good meal, and do whatever feels right for me in that moment. Sometimes it’s watching a show, spending time with a loved one, or just resting. Paying attention to my body is key!”
Looking for a clinician to work with at Rivia Mind? We currently have availability for appointments within 24 hours. Contact Rivia Mind today to learn more or to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.
