CBT Therapist Directory

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Stuart Riskin, LCSW

Experienced LCSW for life transitions
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Relationship support
  • Addictions and trauma

About Stuart Riskin

Stuart Riskin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 28 years of experience in the helping professions. He followed a nontraditional path into social work, moving from an early career in the entertainment industry to intensive personal introspection and formal clinical training. That combination of life experience and professional development informs a practical, empathetic approach to supporting people through challenges.

Having worked across both public and private sectors, he brings a broad skill set and clinical knowledge to help individuals build lasting wellness. His background outside traditional social work settings contributes a flexible perspective and an ability to relate to diverse life circumstances.

Stuart emphasizes a respectful, strength-based collaboration in therapy. He treats each person as the expert on their own life and works alongside them as a partner in change. His style is supportive and grounded in the belief that meaningful growth occurs when a client consciously chooses to pursue change and engages in focused work toward their goals.

He maintains a light touch while remaining professionally committed, inviting clients to contribute their own insights as part of a cooperative therapeutic process.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression

Also Specializes In

Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigueADHD

Additional Focus Areas

AbandonmentAdoption and foster careAging and geriatric issuesAttachment issuesAvoidant personalityBlended family issuesCaregiver issues and stressCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesDependent personalityDivorce and separationDomestic violenceDrug and alcohol addictionEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesForgivenessGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameHIV / AIDSImpulsivityInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesMood disordersMulticultural concernsObsessions, compulsions, and OCDPanic disorder and panic attacksPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsPost-traumatic stressPrejudice and discriminationProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Self-harmSelf-loveSex addictionSexual assault and abuseSexual dysfunctionSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Therapeutic Approach

Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) Gottman Method Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Psychodynamic Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy Internal Family Systems

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Stuart Riskin have?

Stuart Riskin has 28 years of experience in the helping professions.

Is Stuart Riskin a licensed therapist?

Yes. He holds the credential LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker). License details: CA LCSW 22300.

In which languages does Stuart Riskin provide therapy?

He provides therapy in English.

Where is Stuart Riskin located?

He is located in California.

How can I work with Stuart Riskin as my therapist?

You can work with Stuart Riskin through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Stuart Riskin work with international clients?

Yes, Stuart Riskin works with international clients.

How much does therapy with Stuart Riskin cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, just click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Just click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Support

Stuart Riskin draws on Client-Centered Therapy to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where the client's perspectives and goals guide the work. This approach emphasizes empathy and respect, helping people clarify values and build self-trust. He also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns and practice concrete strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and mood. CBT offers practical tools for changing behaviors and improving daily functioning. In addition, Stuart incorporates Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) when working on relationship and intimacy concerns - EFT helps partners or individuals explore emotional patterns and strengthen secure connections.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Stuart works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods align with their needs, goals, and preferences. He treats therapy as a shared project, adjusting techniques as progress unfolds and client priorities evolve.

Online therapy offers flexibility and accessibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. These options make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, access support from different locations, and maintain continuity of care when life circumstances change. Licensed professionals can adapt these formats to deliver focused, effective therapeutic work tailored to each client's situation.

Ready to start therapy with Stuart Riskin?

Take the first step toward a better you.