Richard States, LPC - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Richard States

Richard States

(he/him)

LPC
30 years of experience
Solution oriented
Authentic
Empowering
Virtual

Hi! People of all walks of life often go through tough times ... and I am here to help. Since 1991, I have worked with individuals across outpatient and inpatient settings, in homes and schools, and now through telehealth. I have assisted people with a variety of challenges--whether related to depression, anxiety and stress, trauma, behavioral control, self-esteem, substance use, life transition, and other issues. I believe in "possibilities thinking", goal setting, active strategizing, and frequent accounting of progress. As a long-term counselor and college psychology professor, I am well acquainted with many therapeutic approaches; however, I am somewhat partial to cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation and mindfulness, and solution-focused treatment. I am also formally EMDR-trained and DBT-Certified, both of which are helpful for emotional regulation. There are many therapy options and providers--whomever you select, I wish you the best. Remember--it’s your life, your journey … make the most of it! Sincerely, Rick NOTE: At the current time, my availability will typically be from 8-9 pm on M-W-F evenings; 7:30-8:30 am pm T/TH mornings, 4-6 pm on T/TH afternoons; 8 am - 12 pm on most Saturday mornings; and varied times from 8 am-2 pm on most Sundays. NOTE: I am accepting only adults (age 18 and older). NOTE: I am offering only 1:1/individual therapy (no direct family or couples' sessions). NOTE: I do not engage in any court-ordered treatment. NOTE: I am interested in conducting therapy, not doing work-mandated, IEP, or other (e.g., Disability, Drug & Alcohol, or Mental Competency) evaluations. NOTE: Though an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor, I am not a Licensed Psychologist or a Psychiatrist. As such, I cannot conduct psychological testing or prescribe medications.

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

You should expect that I wish to understand your problem, have you feel heard, and help you generate a plan to address your concerns. I will listen but also actively offer various ideas ... all within the general theme of self-knowledge, self-regulation, and functional living.

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

I truly want folks to feel "heard". I am very person-centered, recognizing that everyone has a unique situation and a different set of strengths and weaknesses. I enjoy fostering hope and reconsidering of realistic possibilities. Personally, I continue to gain new skills and insights and I continue to pursue cutting-edge thinking--having completed many doctoral-level courses in Psychology. I am also a long-term Psychology professor. I see my role as that of a facilitator, and I enjoy brainstorming about how to reach goals.

Appointments

Virtual

My treatment methods

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Mindfulness/Relaxation work is increasingly common in psychotherapy ... and there are various practices. Really, mindfulness is being present in the moment and not judging that moment. It involves control of breath, body tension, and attention. I am a long-term T'ai Chi and QiGong practitioner/teacher, and I do appreciate the role of gentle and rhythmic movement in producing positive mental states. The combination of Mindfulness/Relaxation and CBT is a very good one.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

CBT is a very popular and effective method for getting one more in touch with their internal dialogue and associated patterns of thinking (and feeling). CBT is widely applicable anxiety and depression, addressing day-to-day problems, and fostering greater well-being. CBT can help to get people reduce over-thinking, guilt, anticipational anxiety, etc. The combination of CBT and Mindfulness/Relaxation can be very helpful.

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

IFS--sometimes called "parts" therapy--is a valuable tool related to attachment. Many folks struggle with insecure attachment stemming from childhood, including trauma. IFS is an approach which recognizes this and helps reduce dissociation through the better integration of parts. It works well alongside other therapies, such as Mindfulness/Relaxation, CBT, and EMDR.

EMDR

EMDR is one of several effective practices (PE, CPT, IFS, etc.) to help assist folks recover from trauma. Though familiar with and open to the use of various practices, I do effectively use EMDR remotely. EMDR is a powerful tool to help people reconsolidate negative, even traumatic, memories. The combination of EMDR, Mindfulness/Relaxation, CBT, and IFS often promote very positive recovery.