My name is Rick Cookish and I'm the owner of Pioneer Valley Mental Health. My healthcare journey started 20 years ago when I worked as an emergency medical technician in Springfield, Massachusetts. Driven by my love of people and making a difference in the lives of others, I discovered my passion for listening to people and talking with them through their concerns. At that time, I decided to pursue a degree in social work from Elms College, where I learned about the systems that contribute to a person's needs and systems that promote a person's strengths. I then earned my Master's Degree in social work from Saint Louis University, which is when my journey as a therapist truly began.

 

My clinical work started in group therapy, followed by working individually with adults, children, and families. I'm passionate about mental health and have immersed myself in furthering my education and involvement in the field. I served a term on the National Association of Social Workers Board of Directors and work as an adjunct professor of research at Elms College, where I also speak to prospective students and future clinicians. I decided to become a therapist because I love and believe in people. I fully believe that everybody can improve their lives. My role as a therapist is to listen, reflect, and guide without judgment. I emphasize learning about you, your concerns, and how to work together on your goals. If something can be measured, it can be changed. I believe that everybody can make positive changes for themselves.