Richy C. Villa

Richy C. Villa specializes in cutting-edge techniques for mental health treatment and therapy, with a particular focus on Internal Family Systems (IFS) and couple therapy. As an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Villa is deeply committed to advancing the field of psychotherapy through innovative practices and comprehensive training programs. His expertise in IFS Level 2 training and the Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO) model for couple therapy positions him as a leading figure in these therapeutic modalities. In addition to his work with IFS, Villa is proficient in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a therapy designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. His dedication to trauma-informed care is further exemplified by his certification as a Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Facilitator (TCTSY-F), which allows him to incorporate somatic practices into his therapeutic approach, providing holistic care to his clients. Villa's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts from Drew University, followed by a Master of Social Work from Boston College. His educational background laid a strong foundation for his career in mental health, equipping him with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in both clinical and academic settings. Currently, Villa serves as the Director of Training and Social Work Development for the Department of Psychiatry at Boston Medical Center. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing the training and professional development of social workers, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the complex needs of their clients. His leadership in this capacity underscores his commitment to fostering a supportive and dynamic learning environment for mental health professionals. At Boston Medical Center and Boston University, Villa is actively involved in teaching group psychotherapy and IFS didactics, as well as providing psychotherapy supervision. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of experiential learning and reflective practice, encouraging students to engage deeply with the material and develop their own therapeutic style. Richy C. Villa's contributions to the field of psychiatry and psychotherapy are marked by his dedication to innovative treatment methods, his commitment to trauma-informed care, and his passion for educating the next generation of mental health professionals. His work continues to impact the lives of many, both within the academic community and beyond.