LCSW, 3 years of experience
Hello! My name is Joey Ritkes (he/him) and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. I received my Masters from San Jose State University and my PhD from Alliant International University. I primarily support the LGBTQ+ Community, particularly children and adolescents. Although I do work with clients from various backgrounds and identities. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families.
During our first session, we will get to know each other. There is never any pressure to share or open up until you are ready. I recognize the importance of establishing a strong therapeutic alliance which means that time must be spent in the beginning to develop trust and comfortability.
Having worked in the school system as a therapist for the past 2+ years, I appreciate the importance of being flexible and adaptive. I welcome the client's guidance in letting me know what they need in session. We may have planned something for the session, but then life happens and we need to pivot which I wholeheartedly support. Ultimately, therapy is dedicated time to focus solely on your needs because we often do not have the time to do this during our busy weeks.
My experience has been working with members of the LGBTQ+ Community. The majority of my clients are children, teens, and emerging adults. More specifically, I work with Trans youth. However, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families of various backgrounds and identities.
I prioritize meeting clients exactly where they are which is why I prefer to practice a humanistic treatment modality. In my opinion, it is important to place the client at the center of our work.
I enjoy using CBT to treat specific concerns that bring clients to therapy. I appreciate the effectiveness and evidence-based techniques housed in the CBT treatment method.