Dr. Rieckhof holds a PhD in developmental biology and genetics from Columbia University and a MA in mental health counseling from New York University. She did her clinical externship at Baruch College Counseling Center where she continues to work as their Trauma Counselor.
Dr. Rieckhof specializes in working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma. Her clinical interests include how issues of identity, diversity, and acculturation affect an individual’s well being especially for multi-racial populations, and the challenges women face at various transitional points in their lives. Additionally, after working in academic science for more than three decades, she is aware of the unique conditions, stressors, and challenges that academics face, and welcomes working with students and professionals from academia.
Dr. Rieckhof’s work draws from a broad array of fields and experiences including training in genetics, developmental biology, neurobiology, yoga and mindfulness study. Dr. Rieckhof understands the role that both nature and nurture play in our lives and the power of the mind-body connection to heal. Nature is expressed in particular environmental contexts, and nowhere is that more critical than in social relationships which literally shape the architecture and function of our brain as we develop and go through life. Dr. Rieckhof views the relationship between therapist and client as a powerful agent of transformation where insight and change can occur.
Dr. Rieckhof approaches her therapeutic work with a focus on relational psychodynamics, attachment theory, mindfulness and mind-body practices. She encourages clients to build a non-judgemental curiosity about their internal emotional worlds in order to obtain a better sense of themselves, with the goal of living more deeply integrated and fulfilling lives.