Richard De La Garza is a licensed clinical social worker. His educational background includes a Bachelor's degree from San Jose State University and a Master's degree in Public Administration from Columbia University, and he is currently in pursuit of a Doctorate in Philosophy of Leadership from the University of San Diego. His research intersects multicultural facets of underrepresented first-generation, non-traditional, veteran, and disabled persons and is committed to social justice and culturally competent care. His experience includes working in a variety of settings including the US Army, as a direct commissioned officer for active-duty servicemen. Richard has provided consultation for a non-profit board of directors, case management for a community mental health clinic, and facilitated government partnerships across the military and Palo Alto VA. Richard aligns with a holistic therapeutic approach that is person-centered, psychodynamic, narrative, cognitive behavioral, solution-oriented, integrative systems, and storytelling. Richard's leadership style reflects traits like being bilingual, amiable, and tenacious. Richard strives to expand self-awareness to recognize everyone should be a learner who is capable of growth and redemption. Richard is also trained to provide EMDR therapy.

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

In the first therapy session new clients can expect a warm and welcoming environment where they will have the opportunity to share their thoughts, feelings, and concerns in a safe and confidential space. Below are some initial talking points highlighting the first therapy session with me: First, Introductions and Building Rapport--The session will begin with introductions where I will introduce myself, explain my role as a therapist, and answer any questions the client may have. Building rapport is essential, so I will aim to create a comfortable and non-judgmental atmosphere. Secondly--Discussion of Goals and Expectations: I will invite the client to share their reasons for seeking therapy, their goals for treatment, and what they hope to achieve through our sessions. This will help us establish a clear direction for our work together.

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

As a first-generation college graduate and veteran, I understand that resilience is more than just effort. It's also a transformative identity. Since I was raised by a single parent who migrated to the US, I recognize that cultural and systematic barriers exist. However, I have been fortunate to partake in college preparatory programs designed for non-traditional students. As a result, I embody a degree of privilege not granted to relatives. Because higher education has been a vehicle for social change, I know that my journey features many caring individuals who planted a seed to believe in myself so I can reach new heights.

About Richard De La Garza