Ryan Jenkins profile image

Ryan Jenkins

Ryan Jenkins

(he/him)

LCSW
23 years of experience
Virtual

With a passion for empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges, I embarked on my journey as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker over two decades ago. My professional career began in 2001 as a substance abuse intern, where I cultivated the foundational skills of empathy, understanding, and resilience. With 23 years of counseling experience under my belt, I pride myself on being an "out of the box" thinker. I approach each client with deep respect, recognizing them as the expert in their own life narrative. Together, we embark on a journey of personal growth, aiming to elevate their well-being to new heights. I firmly believe that learning and growth are lifelong endeavors, essential for enriching our lives. I would be honored to be your partner in this transformative journey. I'm here to support you every step of the way. Curious about how we can work together? Let's connect for a complimentary 15-minute consultation. Feel free to ask any questions to ensure our collaboration feels comfortable and aligned with your goals. Ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment? Reach out today and let's begin this transformative voyage together!

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

Your initial session is all about getting to know you and understanding what you hope to achieve through therapy. I recognize that every individual is unique, and your experiences, concerns, and goals are central to our work together. During your session, we create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to share your story. I'll listen attentively as you express your thoughts, feelings, and challenges. Through open dialogue and active listening, I aim to gain a comprehensive understanding of your needs and aspirations. Expect to be asked a lot of questions! This is an essential part of the process as it helps us develop a personalized treatment plan tailored specifically to you. By delving into various aspects of your life and experiences, we can identify areas for growth and intervention. My goal is to collaborate with you every step of the way. Together, we'll explore different therapeutic approaches and techniques, discussing the pros and cons of each option. Your input is invaluable, and we'll work together to create a plan that feels comfortable and empowering for you. By the end of your first session, you'll have a clearer roadmap for your therapeutic journey. We'll begin to establish concrete goals and outline actionable steps to help you achieve them. You'll leave feeling heard, understood, and supported, with a renewed sense of hope and direction. I'm committed to providing you with the guidance and support you need to thrive, and can't wait to see the positive changes that lie ahead. Welcome to the beginning of your transformative journey!

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

Are you seeking a therapist who understands the complexities of life from firsthand experience? I bring a unique blend of real-world experience and compassionate guidance to my counseling practice. Before delving into the field of therapy, I managed a busy restaurant and lived a full life outside of academia. These experiences have shaped my perspective in profound ways, allowing me to connect with clients on a deeper level. I know what it's like to face challenges head-on, to navigate the highs and lows of life, and to come out stronger on the other side. Honesty is at the core of my approach. I believe in being blunt when necessary, reflecting back to you what I see and drawing from my own journey to offer insight into yours. However, I also believe in your agency and responsibility in making choices that shape your life's path. While I am realistically optimistic, acknowledging life's hardships, I choose to focus on the strengths and positives that abound. Life can be tough, there's no denying that, but there is also immense beauty and opportunity waiting to be embraced. Together, we'll explore both sides of the coin, uncovering the resilience and potential within you.

About Ryan Jenkins

Identifies as

Licensed in

Accepts

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I utilize CBT techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral experiments, and homework assignments to help clients gain insight into their thought processes and develop practical skills for coping with challenges. These assignments might include keeping thought records, practicing relaxation techniques, or engaging in exposure exercises to confront fears or anxieties. I integrate Motivational Interviewing(Client-Center approach) with CBT to help clients explore their motivations for change while also providing them with the practical tools and strategies offered by CBT. This combination allows for a holistic approach that addresses both the emotional and behavioral aspects of personal growth and change. Using tracking tools and providing weekly assignments allows one to monitor progress and reinforce learning between sessions. I create a collaborative and empowering therapeutic environment where clients feel valued and supported in their journey toward wellness. I embody a deep understanding of the complexities of human behavior and a commitment to helping clients achieve meaningful and lasting change in their lives.

Motivational Interviewing

Motivational Interviewing, is a collaborative, client-centered approach that focuses on exploring and resolving ambivalence about change. By fostering a nonjudgmental and empathetic therapeutic relationship, MI helps clients identify their own motivations for change and empowers them to take steps toward their goals.

Group Therapy

Short-term Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) groups over 8 weeks can be highly effective in addressing specific issues like anxiety, depression, or stress management. This approach provides structured support within a defined timeframe, empowering individuals to learn practical skills and strategies for managing their mental health challenges effectively.