Edward M. Rivera, LCSW, MSW

What should your client know about you?

My name is Edward Manuel Rivera, I am a licensed clinical social worker with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. I am bilingual in English & Spanish. I am committed to guiding clients on how to improve your overall well-being. I have over 7 years of clinical experience assisting individuals and couples with practical tools to help them manage & overcome difficulties in their lives – I am here to help you reach your absolute best potential.

What is your approach to therapy?

I practice a combination of modalities such as CBT, DBT, MI, and Solution-Focused Therapy – while focusing on your own specific needs & supporting clients in the process of improving themselves. I utilize evidence based treatments and interventions to help clients move past their traumas and experiences. And most importantly, all sessions are client-centered. I have extensive experience working in various clinical settings, including community mental health centers, clinics, hospitals, recovery programs & acute psychiatric facilities.

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

Patients can expect to walk away with new tools and strategies to cope with difficulties and obstacles, a greater sense of self-awareness and confidence. My approach to therapy focuses on identifying strengths, reducing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, and getting people unstuck from their current situations. We will work at your pace in order to reduce emotional suffering.

What was your path on becoming a therapist?

My journey to becoming a therapist began in my late adolescence, it was during this time that I became involved in local community events and services. I was a youth leader for a local non-profit that was dedicated to improving racial tension in the city of Long Beach. I was given the opportunity to participate in community dialogues along with city administrators, police officers, teachers, students, and community members. It was through these experiences that I built an awareness of the community’s needs. I received my undergraduate degree from California State University at Dominguez Hills in psychology and my graduate degree from California State University at Long Beach in social work.