Richard Rivera

After 40 years in social work and 24 years in the US Army Reserves — including combat deployments in Desert Storm and Iraq — I bring something most therapists can't: the experience of having actually been through it. I understand what it means to carry weight that doesn't have words, to keep functioning when you're struggling, and to need support that doesn't flinch at real hardship.

I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in New Jersey specializing in PTSD and trauma treatment, substance abuse counseling, depression and anxiety, and family and couples therapy. I have a particular focus on veterans and military families, individuals navigating addiction recovery, and those seeking faith-based counseling that integrates their Christian values alongside clinical care.

Based in Pennsauken, NJ and serving clients throughout New Jersey via telehealth, I bring decades of training — including post-master's certifications in Marriage and Family Therapy, Substance Abuse Counseling, and Christian Counseling — to every session. I am accepting new clients now.

My counseling style is direct, practical, and rooted in evidence-based therapy. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify the thought patterns driving anxiety, depression, and unhelpful behaviors, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to keep our work moving toward real, measurable change. For families and couples, Structural Family Therapy addresses the underlying dynamics that keep households stuck in conflict or disconnection.

I believe effective behavioral health support addresses the whole person — not just symptoms. That's why I also offer faith-integrated counseling for clients who want their spiritual beliefs to be part of the healing process. This is collaborative and client-led, never imposed.

Whether you're navigating PTSD, grief, anger management, relationship challenges, or substance use, I'll give you practical tools to take home — not just insight to sit with.

Our first session is straightforward: I listen, I ask the right questions, and I help you make sense of what you're carrying. Whether you come in dealing with trauma, family stress, addiction, or something you haven't quite named yet, you don't need to have it figured out before we start.

We'll talk about what's brought you here, your history, and what you want to feel different. From that conversation, I'll help you identify two or three clear priorities — and before you leave, I'll give you specific action steps to work on before our next session. I don't believe in sending clients home empty-handed.

Evening and weekend availability is limited, so reach out soon if you're ready to get started. Telehealth appointments available throughout New Jersey.