A close-up of a middle-aged man with glasses, gray hair, and a beard, smiling and resting his chin on his hand, wearing a red jacket.

About Brian

Real therapy for real life.

Introduction: Hello, and welcome. I’m Brian Rink, the founder of Creative Alternatives Psychotherapy.

I understand that reaching out for therapy takes courage. Whether you are dealing with the heavy weight of burnout, navigating a painful disconnect in your relationship, or trying to understand your own sexuality, you don't have to carry it alone. My goal is to provide a grounded, totally non-judgmental space where you can unpack your thoughts, be entirely yourself, and start feeling better.

My Approach: I don't believe in a "one-size-fits-all" approach to therapy. Instead, I use an integrative method tailored specifically to who you are and what you are experiencing. Therapy with me isn't just about nodding and listening—it’s an active, collaborative partnership. We will identify your "sore spots," break down unhelpful patterns, and equip you with practical tools to navigate your life with more confidence and clarity.

As a gay man myself, I am deeply committed to serving the LGBTQ+ community and allies, and my practice is a safe, affirming space for individuals and couples of all backgrounds.

My Specialties:

  • Men’s Mental Health: Helping men navigate anxiety, depression, career stress, developmental/Family of Origin issues, Addictions, and vulnerability.

  • Couples & Relationship Therapy: Rebuilding trust, improving communication, and breaking negative conflict cycles.

  • Sex Therapy: Addressing intimacy issues, performance anxiety, and sexual wellness in a strictly professional, shame-free environment.

  • Harm Reduction: Substance Use Therapy

  • Chronic health issues such as: Chronic Pain, Dysautonomia, PoTS, Chronic Fatigue, Lyme Disease, Inflammatory disorders. (Brian has both clinical and lived experience)

  • Mood Disorders: Major Depression, Persistent Depressive Disorder, Seasonal Affective Disorder, Cyclothymic Disorder, Bipolar II.

  • Anxiety Disorders and Trauma: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Perfectionism, Developmental Trauma, Relational Trauma.

  • Addictions and Out of Control Behaviors: Substance Use Disorder, Alcohol Use Disorder, Stimulant Use Disorder. Out of Control: Pornography use/misuse, and Sexual Behaviors.

  • Neurodivergent or Neuro-atypical Folks: ASD, ADHD, LD, and the otherwise Spicy. (Brian has both clinical and lived experience).

Professional Background:

  • Education: MSW Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service

  • Licensure: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW Virginia/Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, LICSW DC

  • Trainings Completed: Gottman Levels 1&2, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Couples Developmental Model (Elyn Bader), EMDR- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.

  • Sex Therapist with Sexual Health Alliance (last stages of AASECT Certification)

Let's see if we're a good fit.

The therapeutic relationship is the most important part of the healing process. Let's connect for a brief, no-pressure chat to discuss what you're looking for and how I can help.