Dr. Rivka Graham-Edery, Psy.D., MSW, LCSW

The Self-Energy & Values Sanctuary

Heal Your Parts,

Unleash Your Values Through Action.

ABOUT RIVKA

Welcome to my website. Nice to have you here!

I am Rivka Edery, a fervent advocate for mental wellness and an experienced practitioner with a 15-year tenure in the field. My commitment lies in providing unwavering support to trauma survivors, and crafting therapeutic interventions that resonate on a deeply personal level. Educated at California Southern University, Fordham University, and Thomas Edison State University, my contributions span research, educational seminars, and proactive community involvement. I center my practice around the transformative power of engaging with one's 'Inner Gatekeepers' ("Parts"), which play a pivotal role in fostering psychological flexibility and self-leadership within the internal family system.

In 2009, I graduated as a social worker and discovered that many of my clients had experienced childhood trauma. This trauma caused them to feel isolated, disconnected, and avoidant in adulthood. However, they struggled to recognize the impact of their experiences. I understood their reluctance to confront their vulnerable inner selves. This is because I had also experienced a disconnection from my own.

Their description of the inner system being inaccessible deeply touched me. I strongly believe in the transformative effects of twelve-step programs for those who have undergone trauma. A blend of sincere accountability, soul-searching, and being nurtured by a Higher Power can be a solution that is beneficial for all.

Thus, I wrote and published Trauma and Transformation: A 12-Step Guide (2013). I sold some copies and gave away many for free, and it received almost 100 five-star reviews on Amazon. Book Authority also recognized it as one of the top fourteen books in its category.

Even though I achieved success, I still felt anxious and depressed. To determine the cause, I first analyzed my family lineage and formative experiences. After examining simple and complex explanations, I finally understood how my childhood experiences affected my behavior, thoughts, and relationships. This realization was a relief and motivated me to uncover the root cause of my chronic disconnection and inner isolation.

I developed a strong interest in cultivating genuine and enduring self-love, believing it would significantly affect my life. Though my journey had challenges and missteps, I discovered several transformative practices. These included the Twelve Spiritual Principles, which underpin all twelve-step programs. In addition, Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Polyvagal Theory. Equipped with these tools, I learned how to become my own supportive and compassionate inner caretaker.

I’ve found that embracing vulnerability has made me feel safer. By letting go of negative thoughts and focusing on acceptance, commitment, compassion, love, and forgiveness, I've created a haven for my inner self. This mindset has helped me connect more deeply with my inner child, allowing me to treat myself with the care and support of a loving parent.

Rather than avoiding or disconnecting from my inner child and other internal parts, I've learned to nurture them with love. This has brought purpose and significance to my life and improved my ability to handle complex emotions. I've seen positive changes in my life and experienced a more profound sense of connection, peace, intimacy, and validation.

I've realized how important it is to develop a supportive and protective inner voice for my vulnerable parts. By building a secure bond, I've found healing for my inner child and positively affected my life. I'm passionate about helping others who may need similar care and attention for their inner child.

As I've pursued professional certifications and degrees, I see self-care in a new light. Nurturing my inner child has given me greater self-confidence and acceptance of all aspects of myself. This growth has improved my clinical approach, reduced internal struggles, and increased my clients' serenity and positivity.

Their experiences have deeply resonated with me.