Dr. Natalia Rivera, DSW, LCSW, CADC
Dr. Natalia Rivera, DSW, LCSW, CADC, is an accomplished behavioral health leader with extensive experience supporting military personnel, Veterans, and diverse clinical populations. Currently serving as the Georgia State Behavioral Health Manager at Babylon Healthcare Services Limited, Dr. Rivera oversees programs that integrate innovative mental health solutions to enhance patient care and outcomes. Her career reflects a commitment to evidence-based practices and holistic approaches, including her work in psychosocial rehabilitation and recovery programs designed to empower veterans to reclaim meaningful roles in their communities. Before her current role, Dr. Rivera served as Program Director at the Psychosocial Rehabilitation & Recovery Center (PRRC) at Charlie Norwood VA Medical, where she led initiatives to provide education, skills development, and community integration for veterans. She also held positions as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Psych Consultants and as a Military Social Worker in the U.S. Army, where she began her social work career at age 38, combining her professional passion with personal dedication to service and family stability. Her military and civilian experiences have shaped her expertise in trauma-informed care, cognitive processing therapy, and psychosocial rehabilitation for individuals with complex needs. Dr. Rivera earned her Doctorate in Clinical/Medical Social Work from Capella University, where she also completed a Post-Master’s Certificate in College Teaching. She has contributed to the field through scholarly publications on spiritually integrated cognitive processing therapy for PTSD and moral injury, particularly among military populations. Beyond her professional achievements, she is actively involved with the National Association of Social Workers, Veterans Canine Solutions, and the Autism Society, creating innovative tools such as LEGO City to support neurodiverse children, including her own son. Her career reflects a lifelong dedication to service, education, and advancing mental health care for vulnerable communities.
• LCSW
• Capella University - DSW
• National Association of Social Workers
• Army Volunteer Program
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success primarily to earning my doctorate, a milestone I pursued to make a meaningful impact on education and to advance my profession. Along the way, I was fortunate to have the guidance of two key mentors who shaped my journey: a brigade arm major who supported my military career, and Ms. Gail Bennett, who introduced me to military social work and profoundly influenced my professional growth.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to remain dedicated and committed to hard work. The path can be challenging, but the rewards are meaningful, and the opportunities to make a significant impact are truly worth the effort.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are compassion, resilience, and balance. In my role with the Family Advocacy Program, I work closely with military families on sensitive issues, which can sometimes be career-limiting but incredibly meaningful. I prioritize avoiding burnout by practicing self-care through activities like creating velvet art and training my dogs, which help me manage stress and stay grounded.
I deeply value the flexibility that social work offers compared to clinical counseling, allowing me to engage in meaningful volunteer work, such as supporting behavioral intervention plans, contributing to IEPs, and participating in breast cancer awareness initiatives. For me, making a difference in the lives of others while maintaining personal well-being is central to everything I do.
Locations
U.S. Army Medical Command (MEDCOM)
Augusta, GA 30909