Meet
Dr. Siul E. Rivera, PsyD
Clinical Psychology | U.S. Navy Veteran
Dr. Siul E. Rivera brings a unique combination of military experience, advanced clinical training, and a compassionate, integrative approach to mental health care. As a retired U.S. Navy veteran with 28 years of military service, Dr. Rivera offers a distinctive perspective and a deep appreciation for the challenges individuals face when navigating complex life experiences, trauma, and mental health concerns. He is the first male therapist to join the Gravity Psychology team, bringing an important perspective to clients who may feel more comfortable working with teens, adults, and Veterans.
Dr. Rivera earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Auburn University, followed by master’s degrees in Social Psychology and Clinical Psychology and a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School. His extensive clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults, and families across inpatient psychiatric settings, correctional institutions, private practices, and specialized child-focused clinics. He completed his doctoral internship with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation at the California Correctional Institution in Tehachapi, California, and is currently completing his postdoctoral fellowship at Gravity Psychology.
Dr. Rivera has experience treating a broad range of mental health concerns, including trauma-related conditions, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, and other complex psychiatric presentations. His background is particularly valuable when working with individuals experiencing multiple, overlapping mental health concerns, as well as those whose life experiences, occupational demands, or military service have affected their emotional well-being. He also provides psychological assessments, collaborative treatment planning, and psychological evaluations.
His therapeutic approach is integrative and tailored to each client’s unique needs, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic, humanistic, and person-centered approaches. Dr. Rivera believes that meaningful progress begins with trust, respect, and a strong therapeutic relationship. He works collaboratively with clients to understand the connection between their experiences, thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being, while building practical strategies for lasting change.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Rivera brings experience as a Virginia-certified mediator, where he practiced dispute resolution, collaborative problem-solving, and solution-focused approaches. His personal and professional experiences have shaped a holistic perspective that recognizes the importance of the mind, body, and individual values in the healing process. Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, Dr. Rivera is committed to providing culturally responsive care to individuals and families from diverse backgrounds.
Outside of work, Dr. Rivera enjoys traveling, exploring different cultures, and spending time with family in Southwest Florida. He is also looking forward to welcoming a new puppy into his home.
