- Client-centered work
- CBT techniques
- Motivational interviewing
About Jonathan
Jonathan 'Riley' Murdock is an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with four years of experience working with adults in Idaho. He helps people facing stress, anxiety, addictions, grief, depression, relationship concerns, parenting strain, sleep problems, anger, self-esteem issues, and navigating life changes. He also works with people concerned about bipolar symptoms, trauma and abuse, LGBT issues, and a wide range of interpersonal and adjustment challenges.
Riley emphasizes practical, step-by-step change. He often uses plain metaphors and visual explanations to make ideas easier to remember. Sessions focus on identifying small, sustainable steps clients can take rather than trying to overhaul everything at once. He describes this as building capacity over time - adding a little challenge, then allowing recovery so people don’t burn out.
His approach draws on client-centered work, cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and narrative ideas. That means sessions include listening closely to what matters to the person, examining thoughts and behaviors, practicing present-moment awareness, and helping clients find and enact their own goals. Motivational interviewing is used to clarify choices and support action when someone wants change.
Riley says trauma work is part of his practice and notes methods aimed at reducing shame and upsetting memories. He favors visual tools and direct conversation, and he makes room for different processing styles including those who think more visually or have ADHD traits. He also accepts international clients and conducts work in English.
People who feel stuck after a job change, separation, health shift, or other life transition may find his focus helpful. He asks practical questions first, then helps people identify manageable next steps rather than promising quick fixes.
How therapeutic approaches shape online work
Client-centered therapy focuses on listening and reflecting what matters to the client. It helps people feel heard and clarifies what they want to change. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, looks at the links between thoughts, feelings, and actions and teaches practical strategies to respond differently to upsetting situations. Mindfulness therapy adds simple attention skills for noticing thoughts and sensations in the present moment, useful for stress, anxiety, and sleep problems.Choosing the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with the person to see which methods fit their goals and preferences. That might mean trying CBT techniques for worry, motivational interviewing to move from thinking to doing, or a client-centered conversation to sort out priorities. The plan can change as progress unfolds.
The therapist's biography does not list specific online session formats, so confirm available options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy week, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. It also lets people use visual tools and metaphors during sessions in ways that match the therapist's style. Discussing practical scheduling and format preferences is part of the first session so sessions suit everyday life.
Areas of expertise
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
4+ years
Listed in
Idaho
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does he commonly address?
He works with stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, depression, parenting and relationship issues, sleep problems, self-esteem, bipolar concerns, and coping with life changes.
How does he approach someone who feels stuck?
He uses client-centered listening, cognitive behavioral ideas, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing to identify small, manageable steps toward change.
What is his professional background?
He holds an LCSW and has four years of experience working with adults on a variety of emotional and behavioral concerns.
Where is he based and licensed?
He practices in Idaho and holds the credential LCSW as listed in his professional details.
Does he work with people who live outside the United States?
He accepts international clients and conducts sessions in English.
What session formats are offered?
The original biography did not list specific session formats; please confirm current session options before booking.
How are sessions paid for and what does cost look like?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
What steps do I take to begin working with him?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the crisis numbers.