About Me
My Purpose
My name is Bernadette Rivero and I am a first generation American born to two immigrant parents. I find fulfillment in helping others navigate multicultural identities and breaking intergenerational patterns. While I don’t believe that every pattern stems from childhood, I would be remiss not to acknowledge the impacts that our primary relationships with family and friends have on the views we normalize growing up. Those views have a tendency to trickle into our communication styles, reactions, interpersonal dynamics, self-esteem, and self-regulation tools. If you have been raised with or have internalized narratives like,
“Therapy is for crazy people.”
“Emotions are for the weak.”
“Other people have it way worse than you, be grateful.”
I would love to support you in your exploration and healing. I wholeheartedly acknowledge that working on our mental health is a luxury and a privilege that is not afforded to everyone. We may have friends and family members who did not have the time, space, or resources to process these emotions. I’m elated that we are now in a time in which mental health and therapy is much more normalized and discussed.
Whether it's depression, anxiety, trauma, negative self-talk, family dynamics, intergenerational cycles, race relations, or world events, I will work diligently with you to develop an awareness and understanding of these aspects of your life. I will empower you to create and build upon a positive and healthy transformation. I understand how difficult the process of therapy can be and I will be there to support you through what can be a complicated, yet fulfilling and life-changing journey.
My Approach
As a Filipino woman and therapist, I use an intersectional approach so we can explore the impacts of areas like identity (race, sexuality, gender), family, and environment. I focus on creating a safe and affirming space for you to begin to heal. I am an expressive therapist who does not sit in silence with you. I listen and pull relevant real-life examples while exploring your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I use my clinical training and lived experience to provide culturally attuned and highly specialized therapy.
My Background and Specialties
I received my Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Saint Mary’s College of CA and my Masters of Science in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
I have worked in a wide variety of environments and with a wide variety of clients over the last 15 years in mental health. I have worked in adolescent and adult residential, inpatient psychiatry for adolescents and adults, county government, a mental health startup, and outpatient mental health. My diverse background provides a wide lens of perspective and experience. I continue to focus on professional development by attending trainings and working on continued personal growth in my own therapy and consultation.
Specialties
- Trauma
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Adjustment Disorders
- Life Transitions
- Stress Management
- Cultural/Ethnic Identity
- Women's Issues
- Self-Esteem
- LGBTQ+ Allied
- Individual Therapy