Caitlin Ryan, LICSWA

Caitlin Ryan

Caitlin Ryan’s Therapist Disclosure Statement <<< (Clickable)

Even the most experienced drivers need a map. In therapy, think of yourself as being behind the wheel and I am the passenger. I am here to offer help reading the map and giving directions. Ultimately is it up to you to choose the turns you’d like the take, and finally the destination.

Whether you are coming to therapy due to life transitions, rocky relationships, seeking coping skills, struggling with overwhelming and confusing anxiety, depression, or sadness, or you want a nonjudgmental place to talk and process, you have made the courageous decision to walk through the door and share your story. There are lots of reasons to start therapy, and they are all equally valid. Therapy can help you manage life’s challenges, inspire change, and improve quality to life and relationship.

Making these changes, opening up, and exploring vulnerability can be new and uncomfortable at times, and as driver and passenger, trust and a strong therapeutic alliance is necessary. My goal is to build this with each client and create a space for growth and transformation to occur.

My therapeutic approach more integrative and is influenced by education in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and unconditional positive regard. Rather than subscribing to any one approach, I prefer to blend elements and tailor treatment to each client’s specific needs.  I received my Master of Social Work from Fordham University and am a licensed associate in Washington and Oregon.

I spent most of my life moving all over the country and Europe and recently settled down in the PNW. In my free time, I like to play cornhole and read thriller novels. Every weekend you will find me hanging out with family.

Specialties and areas of focus

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Life Transitions
  • Coping Skills
  • Self-Esteem
  • Relationship Issues
  • Women’s Issues
  • Teens

Q&A with Caitlin

1.) Some therapists are more comfortable addressing the immediate problem, while others want to focus on the deeper issue. Which are you?

I believe in starting where the client is ready to begin. The immediate problem can often be a starting point for therapy and along the journey we will uncover and address deeper issues as the therapeutic relationship grows. Therapy is a marathon, not a sprint.

2.) Do you tend to lead the session, or follow my lead?

I find myself to be very flexible and adjust to what the client feels comfortable with.

3.) What are your strengths as a therapist?

I find humor and laughter healing and try to incorporate it. Also, adapt and change my approach to meet each client’s needs. I avoid a one-size-fits-all approach.

4.) If you had one superpower, what would it be and why?

Speak and understand every language… including dog! I grew up learning German and being bilingual has been such a gift and I can only imagine not having a language barrier and being able to connect with others. Plus, who wouldn’t love to have chats with their dog?

5.) What makes you laugh?

Impressionists. I love a good accent impression! I also love watching old home videos.

6.) Who would you have dinner with, dead or alive?

I would love to have dinner with Steve Carell and talk about The Office.