Riva Szostkowski

Hi, I’m Riva. I became a therapist to walk alongside people navigating this complicated world and help them find more peace in their lives. Therapy doesn’t have to be rigid and sterile. We can drop curse words, gripe about Mercury retrograde, and share podcast recommendations. My passion is partnering with individuals feeling disconnected from themselves and their inner source of joy. Whether you're in transition, feeling unsure of where you belong, or worrying about existing and parenting in today's world-- I am here to walk with you as we wade through the murky waters of life and find a way forward. I take a relational approach to therapy, meaning that I believe that deep healing happens in connection: between therapist and client, with ourselves, our families and communities, and the natural world. We will engage in work (and play!) that enriches these connections. I believe in the healing power of nature and like to work with clients outdoors when possible. I also see clients across California via secure telehealth. When despair for the world grows in me and I wake in the night at the least sound in fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be, I go and lie down where the wood drake rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds. I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief. I come into the presence of still water. And I feel above me the day-blind stars waiting with their light. For a time I rest in the grace of the world, and am free. -Wendell Berry I am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT #166104) with Axis Mundi Center for Mental Health, supervised by a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.