Austin Rietsch (He/Him)

My Background and Approach

With curiosity at the forefront, I tailor services to meet clients where they are at in the present moment together. I often encourages clients to explore themselves and their experiences at their own pace and on their own terms, with a clinical approach that draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Buddhist Psychology. Since I integrate interventions from other therapeutic modalities as well, sessions with me could look like traditional, conversational dialogue or more experimental and experiential techniques such as role-playing, dreamwork analysis, or other activities that strengthen present-moment awareness, security, and expression. Over the years, I've developed a holistic approach working as a mental health professional. My experiences working in mental and behavioral-focused school programs and inpatient psychiatric units provided me necessary skillsets to understand others from a cognitive-behavioral, emotional, and spiritual perspective.

Why I am a Good Fit for You

Having a clinical mental health counseling student provides clients a unique benefit of working with a clinician that is a part of a dedicated supervisory team. In a way, you have the unique opportunity to have multiple therapists in one! I am actively engaged in advanced clinical education and ongoing consultation, allowing me to bring fresh perspectives, creativity, up-to-date research, and professional growth into our work together. I offer a collaborative approach in my services, openly communicating with my clients to ensure safety, clarity, comfort, and ongoing support. I strive to create an affirming and inclusive space for everyone, including a social justice and curiosity driven approach that includes continual learning about our systems, relationships, and social expectations that influence emotional well-being, self-worth, and opportunities in life.