Meet Ben Rea, LCSW: Research-Informed, Relationship-Driven Therapy
By Ben Rea, LCSW
*Updated March 8, 2025
Therapy should be more than a place to vent—it should feel like a conversation that’s alive, honest, and guided by insight.
I’m Ben Rea, a licensed clinical social worker with advanced training in trauma-informed care, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and family systems. For over a decade, I’ve worked with individuals, couples, and families across California—from San Francisco to San Luis Obispo.
But beyond credentials, what really matters is this: I care deeply about helping people feel seen, grounded, and empowered to change.
Research That Shapes My Practice
Before I became a therapist, I was a researcher and professional artist—two disciplines that taught me how to notice patterns, listen carefully, and translate complexity into clarity.
Academic Background
Graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Virginia with dual degrees in Psychology and Studio Art
Awarded “Highest Honors” for my undergraduate thesis on Indirect Interpersonal Conflict and Its Effects on Children
Earned my MSW from the University of Georgia, completing two graduate theses on child and family systems
Research Highlights
My academic work has focused on:
The long-term effects of childhood emotional neglect
Couples' relational cycles and how they become entrenched over time
Attachment-based models of recovery
ADHD and executive function challenges in high-functioning adults
I’ve presented at national conferences and contributed to research published by:
University of Georgia
Emory University
Georgia State University
University of Denver
Want to learn more about how I work? Explore my services.
My Approach: Warm, Direct, and Evidence-Based
I bring a style to therapy that’s masculine but emotionally attuned—equal parts compassion and clarity.
Clients tell me they appreciate that I:
Don’t over-pathologize, but help them name real patterns
Balance science with humanity
Offer tools they can actually use
Show up as a person—not just a provider
I believe therapy should feel like a trusted relationship, where you’re supported in asking hard questions and making meaningful change.
What You Can Expect
Depending on your needs, our work may include:
ACT Therapy: Learning how to stay present and act from values, not avoidance
Mindfulness-Based Tools: Nervous system regulation for anxiety, ADHD, or trauma
Emotionally-Focused Work: Especially helpful in couples counseling
Parenting Support: Rooted in breaking generational patterns
Concierge Therapy: High-access, private care for busy professionals and parents
Learn more about my concierge therapy service in SLO
My Story
I was born in South Africa, and my upbringing was uniquely shaped by time in both Omaha, Nebraska and French-speaking African countries, where I traveled summers with my father for work. That blend of worlds taught me adaptability, empathy, and deep appreciation for the complexity of identity and belonging.
Today, I live in San Luis Obispo with my wife and three kids, where I’ve built a private practice that reflects the balance of science, soul, and grounded presence I aim to offer every client. Read more about me here.
Reach Out
If you’re navigating anxiety, parenting stress, relationship friction, trauma, or just a general feeling of being stuck, I’d be honored to support your process.
Call 805-903-2604
You don’t need to have it all figured out to begin.
Just bring your honest self—and let’s work from there.
