Betsy Richards, LCSW-R

Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing individual, marital, and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. Specializing in treatment of trauma, sexual abuse, depression, and anxiety.

Treatment Philosophy

In treating adults, I believe that, other than those who have suffered traumatic events, most people have developed a distorted belief system about themselves and end up treating others better than they do themselves. I believe it is the basis of good therapy to develop healthy cognitive patterns and beliefs about oneself and the world, so I frequently work with people to achieve this.

People first learn about themselves and the world through their experiences in their Family of Origin. Grieving the past can be an important part that impacts our ability to grow in the future. Many find themselves unable to do this, so this too can be an important part of my approach to counseling.

With trauma victims I believe as therapists we need to understand the biological/neurological impact trauma can have on a person and be trained in treatments that focus on overcoming them. I have been using EMDR to do this for over 18 years.

In working with young children the impact of the family environment I feel is critical so in most cases the family is involved in our sessions. I am also trained in working with children who have been traumatized.

Approach to Treatment

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Trauma based approaches including EMDR (specialty), Ego State Therapy, Interpersonal Family Systems
  • Solution Focused
  • Parent-Child Interactive Therapy

Treatment Focus/Participants

I am experienced in working with Individuals from Young Adults to Seniors, and Families. Having been a teacher I also work with all age children, including Preschool, Elementary school, Middle School, and High School.

Areas of Specialty

  • Emotional issues with depression and/or anxiety
  • Trauma
  • Domestic Violence victims
  • Grief
  • ADHD and Learning Disabilities
  • Child Behavior

Accepting New Patients with the Following Insurances

  • Blue Cross/Blue Shield
  • Independent Health
  • Univera
  • Medicare
  • Most Medicare Advantage Plans