River Dowdy, MS, LPC, NCC

Hi, I’m River. I embrace my humanity and acknowledge that I am a recovering perfectionist, a survivor, a storyteller, a witness, a healer, and a creator. My innate ability lies in crafting meaning and fostering connections, both within ourselves and with the world around us, often utilizing unconventional methods and materials.

Having my own big story of trauma led me to struggle intensely as a young adult. I felt out of control, hopeless, too much, and not good enough. I was un-housed several times and felt untethered to anyone safe.

Through those years I experienced many forms of therapy in a variety of settings, from street outreach, community mental health centers, state insurance-based therapy, private pay, and in all levels of care outpatient to inpatient to residential. I’m thankful for all of it as they played a role in keeping me alive. 

The effects trauma had on my life and health were devastating. I felt defective and unsalvageably broken because traditional talk therapy had a minimal effect, if any, on how it felt to live in my body as it carried all my trauma experiences. There were many points on this journey, long ago, I thought were the end. It wasn’t until I encountered drama therapy and found a way to express my stories in an embodied way and used art between sessions to process my feelings and create a map - “My Way OUT”- that I began to feel hopeful… that life could be more than pain and struggle. Through that journey I found my feet, my voice and a growing desire to learn the art of drama therapy so that I could pass it on as I knew many other people needed this path… this way too!

Throughout my journey, I have immersed myself in the study and practice of a powerful form of therapy known as Developmental Transformations (DvT). Since 2018, DvT has become a source of liberation, healing, and renewed hope, both for my own personal growth and in helping others navigate their own paths of transformation. DvT involves spontaneous, improvisational role-playing between clients and the therapist, creating a safe space for exploration and self-expression. Clients often describe it as therapeutic play with a dream-like quality as it is not always linear and metaphor is king. DvT, like dreaming, is a way to explore feelings, thoughts, beliefs with more or less intensity. Each time is different and at first may feel silly or strange, but your brain and body find this space as a place to reprocess and let go. 

Incorporating the principles of DvT, I bring a distinctive fusion of body and movement-based therapies into my practice. Recognizing the therapeutic benefits of play, I integrate elements of play, drama therapy, sandtray therapy, and creative arts. These approaches not only provide a creative outlet for self-expression but also offer a pathway for healing and growth.

Play, including drama therapy, is a powerful tool for individuals healing from trauma. It offers a safe and non-threatening environment to explore emotions, rebuild trust, and integrate traumatic experiences. Through playful interactions, individuals can regain a sense of agency, enhance emotional regulation, and develop resilience. Research and clinical practice have shown that play promotes relaxation, fosters connections, and enhances brain plasticity, supporting the healing process for ADULTS as well.

I have a highly collaborative approach with clients throughout their therapeutic process. I value their input, encourage their active participation, and prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment that respects their unique experiences and needs.

Accommodating individuals with accessibility needs is extremely important to me. Because I see clients that have various immunological concerns due to chronic illness as well as being an immunocompromised person myself, I do require face masks in person. I also offer virtual options that allow me to also provide therapy to anyone in the state of Missouri. In-person sessions are available and the office and bathrooms are ADA-accessible.

Clinical Areas of Interest

I specialize in three primary niches, allowing me to provide targeted support and expertise to those who require specialized care:

If you are seeking support in these areas, I am here to provide a safe and empathic space for your healing journey. Together, we can explore, transform, and empower you to lead a life of meaning and well-being. 

Professional Experiences

I have a Master of Science in Clinical Counseling from Central Methodist University. As a Drama Therapy Alternative Training Student, Developmental Transformations Advanced Level 2 practitioner, and a neuropsych enthusiast, I am passionate about incorporating creative therapeutic approaches into my practice, recognizing their profound impact on healing and transformation.

I have presented at Healing Together Conference by An Infinite Mind in Florida 4 times. 

I am in ongoing DvT training at the Polaris Institute in Chicago and have attended DvT International School in New Haven Connecticut.  

In 2017, I was accepted to the St Louis Fringe Festival as a co-author of a theatre production about sex trafficking.

Take Your Next Step

To contact me directly, please email river@cozychaircounseling.com or call/text 314.328.5678.

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