Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Valrico, FL

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Recovery Peer Specialist and an Army combat veteran. I have extensive experience working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance abuse. My therapeutic philosophy includes an integrative approach and strongly believe in using a “mission-focused mindset” to help veterans and first responders overcome challenges associated with a variety of mental health issues.

I am Dr. De Jesus Rivera, medical director at Self Improvement Psychiatry. We specialize in top notch, personalized, psychiatric services through telemedicine. I do a in depth evaluation without you feeling rushed. Together, we come up with a treatment plan that you feel comfortable with. We also have a HIPAA compliant texting system for easy communication and timely responses should any problems arise in between appointments.

My core belief is simple: I believe in you and your ability to become the healthiest, most fulfilled version of yourself. Life often makes it hard to see that potential, let alone know how to get there. My role is to be your guide and ally on that journey.

My path to becoming a clinician has been intentional. Beyond my master's degree in counseling and advanced post-master's training, my work in non-profit and community mental health has given me a breadth of experience with people from all walks of life. This doesn't mean "I've seen it all," but it does mean that I'm prepared to meet you where you are, without judgment. No matter what you're going through, if you are ready to take a step, so am I.

Look, nothing gets better if we don't find a way to face it safely. That's why therapy takes courage. It took courage just to get this far, and you already deserve credit for that. When you're ready for that first, brave step of reaching out, I'll be here, ready to loan you some of my hope until you can hold it for yourself.

Everyone deserves a space where they feel heard, valued, and empowered to grow. As a licensed mental health therapist, I’m dedicated to creating that space for my clients, fostering a journey of healing and transformation.

Originally from the Midwest, I found my heart and home in Florida when I moved here for school in 2014. The sunshine, warm community, and opportunities to grow professionally made me stay! When I’m not working, I love spending time with friends and family—movie nights, game nights, and afternoons at the park with my nephew are some of my favorite ways to recharge and stay connected.

With over five years of experience, I’ve worked closely with children, adolescents, young adults, and families to address a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, PTSD, grief, sexual trauma, childhood trauma, self-esteem struggles, bullying, and LGBTQ+ issues. I also have experience supporting individuals with autism, antisocial personality disorder, and schizophrenia.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and founder of Roots Healing Alliance, where I help individuals and couples do deeper, meaningful healing work. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and relationship patterns, using a mix of insight-based and body-centered approaches. My style is warm, direct, and real. You won’t get a “therapist mask,” but someone who’s genuinely in it with you. I’ll support you while also gently challenging you to grow. My goal is to help you better understand yourself and create lasting, authentic change.