Ryan Watters

Bio

I aim to meet every client where they are at, regardless of their circumstances. I work with people who struggle with substance use, depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, or any other topics that may be presenting issues in their life. My approach is to help you understand and identify what things may be causing you difficulties in your life, while simultaneously eliciting the motivation that already lies within you to make the necessary changes in your life.

I have experience working in grief & loss counseling, and my primary area of expertise is in the field of substance use. I work with people who struggle with substance use from a harm reduction framework, and I believe that it is my job to help clients achieve whatever goals they have for themselves, whether that be total abstinence, moderation, or deciding to use some substances while abstaining from using others.

The primary therapeutic modality that I utilize in my practice is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), although I also incorporate skills, practices, and theories from Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Narrative Therapy. I tailor my approach to each individual client, as I firmly believe that each individual that I work with has their own unique set of strengths, needs, abilities, and preferences.

In-network insurances

Blue Cross Blue Shield • Self pay • Humana • Aetna

Specialties

Addiction/Substance Abuse • Alcoholism • Anxiety • Depression • Grief and Loss/Bereavement • Major Depressive Disorder • Personality Disorder • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Trauma • Relationship Issues • Self Esteem • Social Anxiety

Education and training

• University of Chicago: Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, AM
• Cornell University, BA

Languages spoken

• English

Pronouns

• he/him/his