Psychological Services
There are psychologists, counselors, therapists, school psychologists and psychotherapists throughout SW Florida. How does someone know what type of mental health professional is best suited for them? When seeking help, it is important to search for someone who has received the terminal or highest degree in the field of psychology. The coursework and training is not limited to school-aged children, but is likely to be broader in scope with options for specialization.
A psychologist is someone who's training and credentials have been examined (and verified) by the State and has passed the licensing requirements for psychologist. Training consists of graduate level coursework in testing, counseling and research. After completion of graduate training, a licensing examination must be passed. Although many people complete graduate degrees and training in mental health, without passing the licensing examination and being accepted by the State Board, they are unable to use the term psychologist.
Ok, so now that the term "psychologist" is distinguished from 'counselor,' 'therapist,' 'school psychologist' and 'psychotherapist' how do you choose a psychologist? To find a psychologist with whom you can work and who understands your concerns, you can ask your physician, family or friends for a referral. Or you can search you insurance directory, Internet, local/state mental health/medical organizations, etc. Someone who has been licensed for several years is likely to have more years of clinical experience than someone recently licensed. Again, speaking with the psychologist will also help you determine if there is a fit.
Nilsa Rivera, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist who offers comprehensive psychological services to individuals and couples, children and adults, agencies and businesses. When you seek a psychologist or need psychological services, the professional relationship that you develop with the provider is important. Counseling or 'psychotherapy' is a voluntary and discreet matter. The length of treatment varies and can last anywhere from a few session to years. Treatment is a commitment to address problems. You may initially think that you were ready to start counseling, but it is not unusual to realize that your motivation to change isn't as resolute as you once thought. This is ok. Many people start and stop treatment prior to reaching their goals for many reasons. You can start at anytime with a therapist you feel most comfortable with. In life's journey there is rarely a "perfect" time, until you decide to start the course.
Ultimately, as with most things in life, you decide when you need help and when it is right for you to start. This process begins with the first step, scheduling an appointment. Call the office or complete an Appointment Form for more information. This office is sensitive to your needs and will make every effort to make your decision to get help a comfortable one, with no pressure to pursue unneeded treatment, testing or services. Assessment service require time and attention to detail. If you have decided to start working towards your goals, there is no time like the present to begin the process. Your life, your choice; your treatment, your solutions.
Although Dr. Rivera has extensive training and experience within the field of crisis response and care, this practice is not geared towards the provision of emergency or crisis intervention services or medications. Acute psychiatric needs are best addressed within a psychiatric care facility fully equipped with crisis stabilization support and medical staff. To search for psychiatric centers or emergency room near you, you can try searching Google, click here. 
