Max Riv

Bio

*To schedule a family therapy session please call (847) 666 5339

Sharing our stories, asking for help, and taking steps toward positive growth is not always a comfortable process. However, embarking on a process of healing, growth, or discovery can be one of the most important and courageous decisions we’ll ever make. Some individuals find healing through a better understanding and exploration of their past. Others may enter therapy to improve their relational dynamics or identify unhealthy patterns in their life. And still, for others, a therapeutic process can serve as an opportunity to unravel current and complex situational concerns. Whatever the journey, therapy is a safe place to process, increase our ability to manage our emotions, and nourish more love into our lives.
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I believe that we all carry a story that deserves a voice and a comprehensive exploration. My therapeutic approach integrates relational and emotionally-focused techniques to help foster connection and change. At the individual level, this translates to a greater sense of worth, improved motivation, less anxiety, healthier relationships, improved insight, and a space for creativity and passions to grow. At the relational level, my approach places an emphasis on actionable techniques to help those improve relationship satisfaction, develop healthier communication styles, and effectively manage interpersonal stress. I also assist individuals and couples learn how to develop transparency and authenticity, and enhance their connection.

​I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Florida International University and my Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University (NSU). My doctoral studies at NSU included a psychodynamic concentration that emphasizes the interplay between conscious and unconscious processes and the inner psychological world of the individuals I work with. As an integrative therapist, I also incorporate various cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and somatic therapies into practice. In addition, I am certified in NeuroLinguistic Programming (NLP) and have completed Gottman Method Couples Therapy training Levels I & II. My clinical experiences have included working in private practices, community mental health centers, and in-hospital settings.

I am deeply grateful to be in the service of valiant and introspective individuals undergoing psychological treatment. The process of healing or self-actualization is different for everyone, but each day I am given an opportunity to collaborate with clients, and we are both presented with new opportunities to enrich our experiences and nurture our lives in profoundly rewarding ways. I look forward to helping clients embark on the beautiful journey of therapy.

In-network insurances

Blue Cross Blue Shield • Self pay

Specialties

Addiction/Substance Abuse • Adjustment Disorder • Anger Management • Anxiety • Bipolar Disorder • Borderline Personality Disorder • Daytime Sleepiness • DBT/CBT • Depression • Divorce • Grief and Loss/Bereavement • LGBTQIA+ • Life Coaching • Life Transition • Major Depressive Disorder • Men's Health Issues • Mindfulness • Mood Disorders • Narcissism • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) • Occupational Difficulties • Personality Disorder • Relationship Issues • Sadness • Self Esteem • Sexual Dysfunction • Social Anxiety • Stress/Worry • Suicidal Thoughts

Education and training

• Nova Southeastern University, Master of Science in Clinical Psychology

Professional memberships

• American Psychological Association

Languages spoken

• English
• Spanish

Pronouns

• he/him/his