Hi there! Welcome to the BetterHelp community.
*I am only taking short term clients on Fridays currently.*
My name is Riley Dean and I am a practicing Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois and Michigan. I have been trained in psychodynamic therapy, and I typically practice using an integrative psychodynamic framework combined with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Prior to becoming a therapist, I have 5 years in crisis counseling with young adults and families, assisting with a large variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues, family dynamics, abuse, substance abuse, poverty, and more.
In my therapeutic relationships, I am person-centered and I meet folks where they are at, so how I work greatly varies with who I am talking to. I would describe myself as laid back, easy to talk to, and passionate about mental health issues. In both running my practice and in my personal life, I try to live through a transformational, anti-oppressive, feminist lens. I use they/she pronouns.
Whether you decide we are a good fit or you go with another excellent BetterHelp counselor, I truly hope you find the help you are looking for. You are not alone in this, and just this step of looking for a counselor is huge step in the right direction. I so look forward to the possibility of working with you!
Additional areas of focus: Relationship issues, Intimacy-related issues, Eating disorders, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes, Coaching, Compassion fatigue, Body image, Commitment issues, Communication problems, Domestic violence, Emptiness, Family problems, Gender dysphoria, Impulsivity, Life purpose, Midlife crisis, Mood disorders, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Post-traumatic stress, Self-harm, Self-love, Sex addiction, Sexual assault and abuse, Sexual dysfunction, Sexuality, Women's issues, Young adult issues
Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Gottman Method, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
IL LCSW 149.021863
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Riley Dean. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Riley is a wonderful therapist and I’m glad that I was connected with her through BetterHelp. I think her approach prioritizes making therapy a safe place to share and process whatever I’m going through or feeling. While we maintain healthy boundaries between client and therapist, sessions feel like I’m talking to a friend. I appreciate her guidance and partnership and encouragement. Therapy has been an important outlet and support tool as I go through big life transitions (8 months) but I understand that I have agency and power to make changes that improve my life. Riley happened to be a great fit for me and I am better for it!
Written on Dec 22, 2021 after therapy with Riley for 7 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, and parenting issues
I feel very comfortable and safe when talking with Riley Dean. She listens and offers me good advise and guidance. I'm very happy with my counsellor!
Written on Aug 03, 2021 after therapy with Riley for 2 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, sleeping disorders, self esteem, and coping with life changes