Ronald Riekki, LLMSW, PhD, MA, MFA, MFA

Laughter is such an important component of life, and utilizing an eclectic approach with aspects such as strengths-based therapy and positive psychology will hopefully allow for our sessions to be relaxed and interactive. Our sessions together are where your goals can be set and accomplished, past traumas can be discussed in a safe and therapeutic way, and where your strengths and successes can be congratulated and encouraged.

Motivated by my serving in two branches of the US military, my focus has been working with survivors of trauma with diagnoses of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and somatic complaints in a variety of forms. I have worked with multiple survivors of extreme trauma as my subspecialty (including survivors of torture and survivors of war), so have experience with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. There are estimates that 70% of adults have experienced some form of trauma and my focus has been on learning how to help survivors, particularly by utilizing narrative-exposure therapy (NET) where clients have control of retelling their life narrative. I completed the Global Mental Health: Trauma and Recovery Certificate Training Program through Harvard University for added training in therapy for trauma. My MSW in Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, & Substance Abuse from the University of Michigan--Ann Arbor.

I have a Ph.D. in Literature & Creative Writing from Western Michigan University, an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Virginia, and an MFA in Theater Arts from Brandeis University. An emphasis is on how “story” can transform, and how we can reform our identity based on the stories we tell others and ourselves, with an interest in aspects such as gratitude journaling, bibliotherapy, poetry therapy, use of comedy, and NET in general. I have a particular interest in working with those who are open to creativity (students, writers, artists, actors, comedians, and musicians on any level) and further helping for gratitude to enter into that creativity. For couples therapy, I am a strong proponent of The Gottman Method, but incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and NET.

We will use measurements to track your progress and sustained successes, with particular interest in the basics of Kiki Fehling and Elliot Weiner’s dialectic behavior therapy approach of encouraging treating physical illness, balanced healthy eating, avoiding mood-altering substances, proper sleep, and safe exercise, as well as connecting with nature, creating positive social networks, and healthy stress reduction. I have an MA in Interreligious Studies for those interested in incorporating their spirituality into therapy.

I will look forward to talking with you to see if I would be a good fit. Whoever you choose as your therapist, I am happy that you are looking to grow and explore.

At this time, I am seeing both individuals and couples for in-person sessions at the Ann Arbor office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, but I am looking into adding on availability for Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays very soon, so you can inquire about availability seven days a week for Ann Arbor in-person sessions.