Graduate Student Interns
Riverbank Therapy is a practice that believes in investing in the growth and development of the counselors of the future. We host several interns throughout the year, typically for 9-12 months at a time.
Working with an intern has several benefits:
flexible schedules, often including evenings and weekends
comprehensive supported therapy (our interns get 1 hour of individual supervision with one of our licensed therapists per week, plus 1-3 hours of group supervision per week)
growing in your own life, while also supporting the growth of new counselors
Raiya Al-Ansari (she/her)
Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, and seeking therapy is a courageous step towards growth and healing. My goal is to create a safe space for you to express yourself authentically as we explore your experiences and help you develop a deeper understanding of your values and aspirations. Together, we will work on identifying strategies that can empower you to move forward in your journey with a renewed sense of clarity and confidence.
I draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS) and expressive arts therapy. I believe it is important to stay adaptable throughout the therapeutic process, and I will always prioritize evolving my approach to your specific strengths and needs.
I am particularly passionate in supporting neurodiverse adults and those with immigrant and refugee backgrounds, and I strive to build an affirming and relaxed therapeutic environment for individuals of all identities.
I am currently completing my final year of a Master of Social Work program at the University of Central Florida (expected graduation August 2025).
Sammy Witness (she/her)
Whether you're new to therapy or a seasoned pro, I'm here to guide you through untangling your thoughts and nurturing your growth. We’ll use a range of tools to help you reach your goals. I particularly draw from the model of narrative therapy, which helps to rewrite empowering stories from painful experiences. With four years of experience as a sex educator and child grooming prevention specialist, I offer unique insights, particularly for couples, polycules, and families with teens. Pursuing certification in sex therapy, I'm dedicated to supporting individuals and couples in navigating intimacy and sexuality. Committed to providing a safe space for those identifying as polyamorous, nonmonogamous, or LGBTQIA+, I offer trans-affirming care. Additionally, I'm passionate about assisting individuals and families impacted by chronic illness.
I am in my final year of a Marriage and Family Therapy Master’s program at Capella University (expected graduation May 2025).
Annie Dwyer (she/Her)
Whether you are struggling with depression or anxiety, moving through a major life transition, or simply feeling “stuck,” I look forward to accompanying you on your journey. I see the counseling process as an opportunity to increase self-awareness, strengthen relationships, build resilience, and discover new ways to live in alignment with your deepest values.
While I adapt my approach to what works best for you, my core orientation has been centrally shaped by existentialism, humanistic approaches, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I aim to bear witness not only to your wounds and difficulties but also to your unique gifts and strengths. I strive to bring an authentic, compassionate, and sometimes playful presence to the hard work that we do together. And I look forward to learning about the deeper histories, present circumstances, and unspoken dreams that make you who you are.
As a justice-oriented counselor, one of my central commitments is affirming your multiple, intersecting identities in session while helping you contend with the systems of oppression that shape your lived experiences outside of session. I have a particular interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients who are exploring their identities and/or experiencing minority stress. I am also a climate-aware therapist, and I am committed to supporting and empowering clients who are experiencing difficult emotions related to the climate crisis.
I am a Master’s student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Seattle University (expected graduation June 2025).
Other education: PhD in English, University of Washington.
Julie Rojo (she/her)
Wherever you find yourself in life, I am here to meet you there. You may need support getting through some of the toughest times, or you may feel more in need of reassurance and encouragement to keep on the path you’re on.
I use multiple therapy modalities to support you, wherever you’re at. These include:narrative therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and solution-focused therapy. Together, we’ll create a safe, affirming, positive environment to help you explore, ask questions, reflect, and reach goals that you have set for yourself. With over 20 years in education as both a teacher and administrator, I have the experience to help counsel clients of all ages during various life stages.
I am currently completing my final year of a Masters of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) at Seattle University (expected graduation June 2025).
Other education: Master of Arts in Education Administration, California State University, Chico
Abe Guevara (he/him)
It is an absolute privilege for me to support you as you commence or continue in your journey of self-discovery. I recognize that I am not the expert of your life, but I am here to provide a non-judgemental, safe, and welcoming space. I strive to be as open, curious, respectful, and accountable towards any thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and experiences that may come up during our time together.
I approach counseling by tailoring therapy to your unique needs as I firmly believe that there is no “one size fits all” method towards personal growth. My aim is to empower you with the insight and skills for lasting change. In our sessions, I balance my professional demeanor with my authenticity and humor, fostering a genuine human connection. I believe this approach creates a therapeutic alliance rooted in respect and common courtesy.
I am a Master’s student in the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Seattle Pacific University (expected graduation June 2025).
Other education: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of California, Irvine