Meet The Team
River Barry CMHC
Hi, I’m River Barry (she/her) — owner of Rising Sun Counseling and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I’ve spent my career working with people from all walks of life, each with their own unique stories, challenges, and identities.
My path into the mental health field started in upstate New York, where I worked in residential treatment with teens and witnessed the difficulty that the residents had in articulating their internal experiences. I found that there is a great need for alternative forms of processing in therapy other than just verbal processing. That insight led me to earn my Master of Science degree with a focus on creative arts psychotherapy.
From there, I worked as an outpatient therapist with adolescents and adults. I enjoyed it deeply, but had a longing to seek other forms of treatment that utilized alternative forms of processing. That calling took me to Utah, where I spent two years as a wilderness field therapist, helping people use nature as a powerful space for processing and growth. Eventually, I returned to outpatient work and then planted the seed that became Rising Sun Counseling. Today, I support Utah residents with anxiety, depression, and trauma'; specializing in creating safe space for adventure outdoor sport needs and queer folx.
I’m passionate about getting to know each client’s story—untangling the threads, understanding the “why,” and using that insight to make real, lasting changes. I believe change happens when we remove barriers and try on new ways of being.
In our work together, I draw from tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, Somatic Experiencing, and Brainspotting. Most sessions end with setting intentions and offering guidance to carry into your week.
I’m genuinely excited about the possibility of working with you—exploring, experimenting, and building a life that feels more authentic, grounded, and free.
The goal of counseling is to work towards being the best version of you possible. Together we will gain insight into the origin of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; explore new ways of being; and work towards integrating new ways of being into a life that serves you best.
Michael Gloebiowski CSW Intern
Hello! My name is Michael (he/him), and I am currently a Master of Social Work Intern. My personal and professional life involves sitting with people where they are, ensuring they are seen, supported and accepted. Learning to thrive after breaking my neck at 15 has shaped who I am and how I approach life and explains why I especially enjoy working with people overcoming obstacles and challenges to achieve their goals and potential.
Working with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline drove my passion to be able to support those who feel alone, underrepresented, discouraged, feeling “stuck”. Everyone is an expert at their life, and I believe in working together to find individually tailored solutions to thrive and achieve one’s potential. My therapeutic approaches focus on anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and trauma and I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. I hold a deep respect and compassion for all individuals. My goal is to ensure that you feel safe as we explore barriers sensitively so that you can navigate, understand and overcome.
I utilize a person-centered approach, incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing. I believe that no matter the difficulties, challenges, or experiences someone goes through, they deserve to be accepted, supported, and seen for who they are. I would be honored to sit with you and help you navigate your own strengths and opportunities.
Claudia Payor CSW
Hi! My name is Claudia (they/them), and I’m a Certified Social Worker. As a queer, non-binary clinician, I’m passionate about creating an affirming, trauma-informed space for queer and trans folx to show up fully and authentically. I center social justice in my work, recognizing how systems of oppression impact mental health and access to care, and I strive to provide therapy that is not only healing, but liberating.
My clinical focus includes working with anxiety, depression, and trauma, particularly within LGBTQIA+ communities. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and I’m here to support you in reconnecting with your inner wisdom, strength, and resilience. I hold a deep understanding that behaviors often stem from unmet needs, and I work collaboratively with you to explore and address those root causes with care and compassion.
With over six years of experience supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, I’ve worked with people navigating substance use disorders, serious mental illness, trauma, and life transitions. I also bring a strong working knowledge of the social services system, and I’m committed to connecting clients with the resources they need to thrive.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), while also incorporating a holistic and person-centered lens. I believe that healing is possible for everyone—no matter where you're starting from—and I would be honored to walk alongside you in that process.
