Sharina Riva
PROVISIONAL PSYCHOLOGIST
I take a warm, empathetic and passionate approach in providing people-centred support for individuals of all diverse backgrounds. Being of a mixed national background and born in Phuket, I am aware of the cultural limitations that afflict the efforts of mental health services. As a fellow human wanting to better understand my own experiences and challenges, I was eager to immerse myself in the field of psychology.
“I seek to better connect with and support others through creating a safe and judgement-free environment for my clients to feel understood.”
How I help
I provide both assessment and counselling therapy – I enjoy supporting and working with people at all stages of life, including children, adolescents and adults, and people of diverse cultural backgrounds.
I work alongside you to better understand your own experiences and build on tools for you to use in making positive changes to living a healthier and more fulfilling life. I enjoy drawing from the strategies of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I work alongside individuals and families to assess for Attention/Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disorder, and Intellectual disability. I see clients with a range of presentations, including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and stress management.
I have worked in implementing individualised behavioural and educational programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I tailor my approaches to the unique needs of each person to instil confidence and motivation, and in supporting individuals meet their goals to live a more independent life.
Why I’m here
I love working at Boutique Psychology as I am both supported and guided, personally and professionally, by a team of incredibly passionate and committed people.
Things I love to do
I absolutely love to cook and try new recipes – I find it to be one of my favourite ways of connecting with others, and showing my appreciation for those around me. I have also always loved painting and drawing (while I am not sure my love ever transferred to an artistic talent!).
Credentials – Sharina Riva
- Registered Provisional Psychologist (AHPRA)
- Master of Professional Psychology, Monash University
- Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced), Deakin University
- Bachelor of Psychological Science, Deakin University
- Mental Health First Aid
- Member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS)
Boutique Psychology
Boutique Psychology is a judgment-free zone where you can safely be yourself. You can count on being heard and respected.
Each of our Psychologists has their preferred therapeutic approach and distinct personality. However all of us are kind, warm, genuine humans.
Importantly, none of us believe that you’re broken, given that all of us come through our own messy, challenging times.