Christine Rykiel

Hi, I am Christine Rykiel, LCSW and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living and working remotely in Florida. I have been a practicing therapist for over 25 years and I find that using a client-centered, solution-focused approach to therapy has allowed my clients to achieve success in making the changes that they want for their physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being. The areas of focus in my practice have included treating clients who present with symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, autism spectrum, life transitions, grief, trauma, and perfectionism.

My approach

My approach to therapy is that of a solution-oriented, client-centered model. I employ interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Skill Building, and Behavioral Activation frameworks in my work with my clients.

My focus

I enjoy working with adults of all ages and the conditions I am experienced in treating many mental health disorders including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, trauma disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. I also have extensive experience providing therapy services for grief, relationship/communication issues, emotion dysregulation, and low self-esteem.

My communication style

The style of communication that I use with my work with my clients is one that is nonjudgmental, empathic, and validating. I want my clients to experience their therapy sessions from a perspective of feeling supported and understood.

My journey to mental healthcare

In high school, as a result of my volunteer work, I became very interested in seeking education and training in the helping profession. After doing some work in the mental health field in college and achieving my bachelor's degree in psychology, I became determined to pursue a master's degree in social work knowing that this would allow me to help others in ways that I am passionate about to this day. I am grateful for the continued opportunities to advocate for, help strengthen and witness the growth of the mental and emotional health of my clients.

My goals for you

In my work with clients I elicit from them, during the 1st and 2nd appointments, the changes and differences they are looking to achieve for themselves as a result of our work together. I want to know what they identify as the present concerns that they are seeking treatment for and I will ask for them to describe what the improvements will look like for them at the completion of therapy.

My first session with you

During the first appointment with me, a client can expect that I will provide a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere to help us build our rapport and connection with one another. I will gather information to help me better understand the development of the current concerns that are bringing the client into therapy and I will outline some relevant expectations for the therapy process.