- Client-centered methods
- CBT and mindfulness
- Motivational interviewing
About Jonathan
Jonathan 'Riley' Murdock is an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with four years of clinical experience working in Idaho. He helps people who are carrying heavy guilt or shame alongside stress, anxiety, addiction, trauma, grief, depression, and relationship concerns. He also works with issues like sleep problems, parenting strain, anger, self-esteem, and coping with life changes.
Riley focuses on building small, manageable changes rather than big leaps. He uses plain metaphors and visual explanations to make ideas stick. Sessions are practical and stepwise - he describes change as baby steps, like gradually strengthening a muscle with repeated effort and recovery.
He draws on client-centered methods to follow what matters most to each person. Cognitive behavioral techniques and mindfulness practices are used to notice patterns of thinking and to practice different responses. Motivational interviewing is part of how he helps people decide on next steps and begin taking them.
Riley speaks in straightforward terms about trauma, shame, and guilt, and how those feelings can keep people stuck. He emphasizes pacing work so it does not become overwhelming, and he pays attention to when recovery time is needed as much as effort. His style is direct, visual, and often metaphor-driven, which some people find helpful for remembering new skills.
He welcomes conversations about what a practical plan might look like for someone carrying guilt or shame. The focus is on clear, do-able steps and on making changes that fit into everyday life.
How his approaches translate to online sessions
Client-centered therapy focuses on listening and following what matters to the person. Online sessions using this approach start from the client's priorities and adjust the work around those goals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and uses specific exercises to try different responses. In an online setting CBT can include worksheets, in-session practice, and short homework to test new habits.Motivational interviewing helps a person clarify what they want to change and build the motivation to try. Online conversations can use focused questions and planning tools to turn intention into small, concrete steps. Riley treats choosing an approach as a collaborative process; he will work with the client to see which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences and adjust as the work unfolds.
Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current online options before booking. Many people find online sessions easier to fit into a workday or caregiving routine, and some formats make brief check-ins or focused skill practice simpler to schedule. Talk with him during the first intake about what will fit your day-to-day life and how to pace the work so it stays manageable.
Areas of expertise
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
4+ years
Listed in
Idaho
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of guilt or shame does he help with?
He works with guilt and shame related to relationships, past actions, trauma, and family or faith contexts as part of his broader work with trauma, grief, and depression.
How does he approach feelings of guilt?
He uses client-centered work and cognitive behavioral techniques to examine thoughts and behaviors, then applies small, practical steps to change patterns.
What is his clinical background?
He holds an LCSW and has four years of clinical experience in his current role, building on previous social work experience.
Where is he licensed to practice?
He practices in Idaho and carries the credential LCSW as listed in his profile.
Which languages does he offer sessions in?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the U.S. work with him?
He accepts international clients; confirm time zones and scheduling when arranging a first session.
How are sessions billed and what does cost look like?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
What do I do to begin a session?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, use the crisis numbers.