Qualifications

Ryder T. DeFranco, MSW LICSW

My goal is to help others achieve self-fulfillment and happiness with skilled collaborative counseling. I am compassionate, engaging, and focused while using practical guidance and continuing treatment that is effective.

As a result of my diverse work and life experiences, I am able to create a practice where clients’ emotional needs and roadblocks are identified and addressed. Having worked across the spectrum of mental health and social work, I provide research-based therapeutic treatment and counseling and also help my clients gain insight into solving their problems and finding resources.

I’m a good listener even in the most difficult conversations. I am comfortable addressing every issue without judgement. I endeavor to enable my clients to realize that what may seem insurmountable can be resolved if they are willing to be open minded and put in the time and work.

As a young adult, I benefited from life-coaching, and it inspired me to give the same quality of help to others. Now, as a married mother with two young children, I understand that finding a home and work balance is difficult and that day-to-day tensions need to be talked about and resolved. I am a firm believer in the free exchange of loving communication for individuals, couples and families – and creating a safe environment for both positive and negative feelings and experiences. I believe that these experiences can create personal growth and ensure a happy life with healthy relationships.

Professionally, I earned an M.S. in Clinical Social Work from Walla Walla University and a B.S. in Social Services from Central Washington University. My family resides in Ellensburg, and afterhours, I enjoy playdates with my kids, spending time with my friends and family. I actively pursue skiing, hiking, horseback riding and travelling.