Robin Rivinus

After completing a baccalaureate degree with majors in nursing and philosophy at New York University I started out in practice as a district nurse in a rural area of Cape Cod. Visiting patients in their homes, sharing meals with families, and having an intimate view of the value and impact of family, community, life style, and cultural beliefs, formed the basis for the integrative approach I have practiced throughout my 40 year career.

I completed graduate degrees in education and midwifery at Case Western Reserve and went on to open the first midwifery practice at Berkshire Medical Center in 1990. Over the next 20 plus years I have held various clinical and teaching positions. Recognizing the enormous need for the inclusion of mental health care in women’s health I completed a post-master’s certification as a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Stony Brook University which I have incorporated into my practices both as a women’s health provider and as a mental health practitioner in private practice.

I made the decision to relocate to Northampton as I feel that the unique nature of the community will be a good match for the skills I have to offer. As the former director of gynecology at the Callen-Lorde Center in NYC I bring a level of comfort and familiarity with issues related to gender identity and transition.  In addition to a whole person, whole life perspective I bring a mindfulness, resilience based, heart centered approach to my work.

I offer psychotropic (medication) management and consultation as well as alternatives to conventional medications and additional supports through therapy and referrals to specialists ( EMDR, MBSR, transcranial stimulation, etc) as needed. I am open to working with an existing therapist or primary care providers for medication support. I believe that psychotherapy and integration of stress resilience strategies are the primary tools for improved wellness. Medication may be a useful adjunctive therapy but is often overrated as a central strategy for improved health. For this reason, I believe that the integration of therapy with medications as needed is the most beneficial approach for long lasting improvement

I do not provide medications for substance abuse recovery, medical marijuana, or stimulants unless the client is engaged in regular therapy with me.