Clinical Online Psychology - Gay / Lesbian, Addictions & Recovery, Couples Therapy

Thanks for your interest in online psychotherapy. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in San Francisco, California, and I've provided services in the mental health field for over 15 years. As an online psychologist, I treat individuals with depression, anxiety/fear/panic, relationship problems, career issues, grief and loss, and other concerns like loneliness, personal growth, and low self-esteem. I also work with clients who've experienced trauma in the form of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. My areas of specialty include gay/lesbian issues; HIV/AIDS-related issues; substance abuse and addictions, including love addiction and compulsive sexual behavior. In my work with couples, I often focus on communication problems, intimacy and sex, and parenting issues.

Although I am originally from the east coast, I studied undergraduate psychology at the University of Colorado, in Boulder. Then, I completed my doctoral degree in 2001 in Berkeley, California. Many people ask me how I approach therapy with clients. My approach will vary depending on your goals, how long you want to be in therapy, and the issues involved. Overall, my style is warm, engaging, and goal-oriented. I am often told this is a welcome change for the client whose previous therapist "didn't say much", "didn't offer feedback", or "didn't help me get anywhere." Regarding theory, I generally follow 'psychodynamic' and 'cognitive-behavioral' concepts. This means that you and I will likely discuss how your past may be influencing your current feelings, and we'll look at the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Ultimately, however, research has shown that good psychotherapy is largely dependent on the quality of the therapeutic relationship. Therefore, it's important to me to make sure the therapeutic relationship models a good relationship in general. You can learn more about my practice at my website, www.drseanriley.com.

I recognize that finding a therapist or online psychologist and beginning therapy can be a courageous step to having the life, relationships, career, and happiness you deserve. So whether you're new to therapy or have received services in the past, I will work with you to help the process go smoothly, knowing that beginning can sometimes be difficult. I look forward to hearing from you.

NOTE: I AM ONLY AVAILABLE FOR TELEPHONE AND AUDIOVISUAL SESSIONS. I am no longer available for email sessions. If you are interested in scheduling a telephone or audiovisual session (using a webcam and software like Skype, ooVoo, MSN Messenger, AIM, or Yahoo Messenger), please know that I do have openings in my schedule that I don't post on this site's calendar. Contact me by phone or email so we can schedule the session first, and then return to this site to purchase it online. I look forward to hearing from you.

Email Sean Riley, Psy.D.

Schedule an Email Session with Sean Riley, Psy.D.

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