Hello and welcome to my page! My name is Ricki Shain and I have a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from St. Thomas University. I’ve been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for over 30 years in a variety of settings including private practice, residential treatment centers, partial hospitalization programs, inpatient psychiatric units, and non-profit agencies. I have also worked as a Behavioral Coach helping people with chronic medical issues make the behavioral changes necessary to improve their health. My clients were from a variety of ages and backgrounds; some were struggling with challenges and some were just looking to make a positive change in their lives. The individuals with whom I worked have found me to be empathetic, non-judgmental, and direct. I am task-oriented and take a practical, no-nonsense approach to tackling life's challenges. Clients respond well to my positive attitude, knowledge, and humor, and it would be my honor to share that with you. Congratulations on taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life. I understand it can be difficult to ask for help and begin to take steps toward change. My role is to guide and support you in building the skills and confidence necessary to live your best life. Your goals are the foundation of the work we do together. If you are not sure what they are, we can figure that out together. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, client-centered and strengths-based therapeutic styles. As every client is unique, using multiple styles offers me the opportunity to tailor your sessions to your needs. Whether you are seeking to address challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, medical problems, career choices, or relationship issues, or are just feeling stuck and want to change your life in a meaningful way, I would love to support you as you move forward. I am here to motivate, support, and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
After your first session, we will both have a clear idea of what issues are to be addressed in subsequent sessions and how we will work together on them. You will learn new tools at each session but it is up to you to implement the tools in the time between our meetings.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, client-centered and strengths-based therapeutic styles.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Many clients feel that I help them get to the core of complex issues so that the issues do not seem so overwhelming. By thinking "outside the box" I help my clients develop tricks and tools to deal with negative or anxious thoughts, unwanted behaviors or habits.