I’m Jessica Richards, a therapist, trainer and faculty member of the NeuroRelational Framework. As a therapist I specialize in working with complex profiles. I have deep knowledge and experience in trauma, sensory differences, autism, pathological demand avoidance, selective mutism and anxiety. I’m curious and creative as a provider and believe a collaborative approach is optimal. There is no 'one-size-fits-all' in my practice. Honoring and understanding individual differences is the backbone of my work. Diversity in all of its' forms is welcome and embraced in my practice.
My unique approach combines the best evidence-based strategies for Selective Mutism and customized care matched to each client’s unique profile for superior success. I use a Neurodevelopmentally-informed, individualized Selective Mutism protocol to support clients in accessing verbal language. I teach, train and consult to share my expertise and techniques locally and with those outside of the Los Angeles area.
At the heart of Jessica's practice lies the belief that therapy is not a 'one-size-fits-all' solution. Every individual comes with their own narrative, experiences, and neurobiology. Through understanding and honoring these differences, she provides a sanctuary for connection, healing, understanding, and growth.
With over fifteen years of clinical experience, advanced knowledge using the NeuroRelational Framework as well as Child Parent Psychotherapy training Jessica has deep expertise in both top-down (thinking-feeling) and bottom-up (sensorimotor) work with families and individuals. Jessica holds a unique dual Masters in Clinical Social Work and Child Development. She is endorsed in California as an Infant-Family and Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist and Reflective Practice Facilitator II.
Her diverse experiences range from Inpatient Child and Adolescent Psychiatry to community mental health in South Central Los Angeles. Jessica was the lead therapist for the child welfare court team pilot program Fostering Family Partnerships in Los Angeles.
With over 200 speaking engagements locally and internationally, she has enlightened countless child welfare, legal, mental health and education professionals. She has been a keynote speaker at several conferences across the country and presented at Zero to Three and the World Association for Infant Mental Health.