Rita Wagner

Maybe the kids are grown, the job is done, or someone you love is gone. Now the quiet feels louder than you expected. I'm Rita, and I help adults and seniors navigate grief, caregiver stress, aging, anxiety, depression, substance use, and life transitions. I especially enjoy working with those entering what I like to call "seniorhood," the stage when life shifts and the old map stops working. With over 2 decades of experience in community mental health, I bring a non-judgmental presence and genuine care for wherever you're starting from. I'd love to be part of your next chapter.

You deserve therapy that feels honest and useful. My style is warm and direct. I follow your lead and give you something concrete to try between sessions. I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and strengths-based counseling to build real coping skills. Grief counseling, caregiver stress, bipolar disorder, substance use recovery, and the identity shifts of aging are areas I know well, professionally and personally.

In our first session, we'll talk through what's bringing you in and what you're hoping will be different. I'll ask questions, and together we'll build a plan that's specific enough to follow but flexible enough to adjust. You can expect sessions that feel collaborative, not clinical, I'll always tell it to you straight. If you're ready for support with anxiety, depression, grief, or life after a big change, I'd love to hear from you.