Welcome, I'm Dr. Fitzpatrick, but please call me Rich.

  • 40+ years of running

  • Cooking everyday family meals

  • Hurricane lamps

  • Snow storms and wild weather

  • Volunteering (on the Board of a regional homeless shelter and United Way)

  • Guru of dog tricks

  • My skiing nickname is Maddog because I would attack the slopes with falls and recovery (in a cloud of snow all in one motion...)

Unlock Your True Potential

I've dedicated my career to helping individuals navigate the complexities of life, work, and relationships. In my work, you're not just a client but a valued individual with a unique path.

I offer therapy to help unlock the potential within you, especially when you feel stuck or feel overwhelmed. My approach to understanding your path is focused on guiding you toward the clarity and change you desire.

What My Sessions Are Like

Imagine a therapy session that feels more like a chat with a good friend who's got your back. I'm all about mixing in some laughs, laid-back talks, and relatable metaphors to help you see things in a new light.

I'm the kind of therapist who cheers you on with phrases like "You've got this!" That’s not just “Happy Talk.” It’s the kind of affirmation that can unleash buried tears and spring forth genuine hope.

My Professional Background

Healing Together

Having worked closely with healthcare professionals throughout my career, I offer tailored support to help you overcome professional burnout and reignite your passion for your career. It's about finding balance and rediscovering the joy in your work.

Couples therapy is another area close to my heart. I believe in nurturing communication, connection, and growth. Whether you're facing challenges or looking to strengthen your bond, my approach focuses on fostering understanding and resilience in your relationship.

Compassion in Action

My clinical training at Harvard's Beth Israel Hospital and long tenure as Chief of Mental Health at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates have equipped me with a deep understanding of the human spirit and the value of compassion and connection in all of our interactions.

Since 1984, as a guide and mentor in leadership and organizational growth, I've deeply embraced the art of nurturing change and expansion in individuals and groups. My experience extends to being a part of the Harvard Medical School's teaching community, and I've also poured my insights into a book about managed care. This path has been about connecting with hearts and minds, fostering courage and authenticity in every step.

Find Your Way Forward

Whether you're facing personal challenges, professional burnout, or relationship issues, my commitment is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space.

Here, you can lay it all out there, talk, share, and find solutions.

Let’s bravely step toward the life you desire.

Professionl Endorsements

  • "For more than twenty years, I have benefited from Rich’s deep understanding of cultural change management and systems thinking. What has always impressed me is his pragmatic ability to engage medical and non-medical leaders in change and improvement processes, large and small, decreasing politics, polarization, and resistance."

    Louise Liang, MD

    Senior Vice President, Kaiser Permanente

    Past Board Chair for the Institute of Healthcare Improvement

  • "As a thought partner, Rich has a unique combination of business savvy and emotional intelligence. He is deeply strategic and clear in his thinking, yet always practical in his advice. Rich has an enormous capacity to get to the heart of any matter and comment in a way that enables me to move forward with confidence."

    Scott Armstrong

    Chief Executive Officer, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound

  • "After forty years in business, I do not know of anyone, not anyone, who is in his league as a facilitator of management teams and processes. This guy is one of a kind."

    Eliot Daley

    Sr. Vice President for Strategy, Aspect Medical System

  • "I have had the distinct pleasure of working with Rich Fitzpatrick for over ten years. He consistently brings value in everything he does. His background and experience are deep and broad as a healthcare provider, in operations, in strategic planning, and leadership development. As a result, he routinely draws on a wealth of experience and pattern recognition that helps to quickly focus on the heart of the matter. His strengths and characteristics have provided for an exceptionally strong and productive relationship. I cannot imagine anyone being disappointed in seeking him out."

    Greg Kutcher, MD

    CEO Mayo Clinic Health System - Southwest Minnesota

  • "Rich is remarkably insightful regarding healthcare and leadership. From understanding the mechanics of complex healthcare organizations and strategies for success, through in-depth knowledge and experience with leadership styles and personalities leading healthcare today, Rich is particularly adept at guiding and mentoring these diverse people and perspectives into high-functioning teams to tackle the complex issues facing healthcare today."

    C. Daniel Smith, MD

    Chair, Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Florida

My Specialties

  • Life Transitions

    Are you navigating through a tricky chapter in your life? If you're feeling a bit lost, I'm about getting that pep back in your step.

    I'm ready to feel refreshed!

  • Couples in Conflict

    If you and your partner are hitting some bumps, consider me the relationship whisperer. Let me help you rekindle that spark!

    We need this support.

  • Physicians and Medical Professionals

    Feeling burnout? I'm here to offer a helping hand, guiding you back to a place where you can breathe easy and feel revitalized.

    I need that passion back!

Personal Information

Married to Caroline for decades, we have three grown children making their own way in life now. When I'm not working, I love unwinding with some of life's simple joys. Running is another 40+ year passion of mine. It's not just about staying healthy; it's my way of connecting with myself and with this beautiful world around us. I’ve run the Boston Marathon and dozens of 5K’s.

I also find joy in everyday cooking, and sometimes you’ll find me experimenting with something gourmet!

I’ve pulled lobster traps with my Maritime Skiff off Cape Ann for many years. I love a cup of coffee out on the ocean in the early morning light.

Beyond these personal hobbies, I've been committed to volunteering and serving on various Boards of Directors over the years. It’s important to try to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Inclusivity & Support

In my practice, I deeply value inclusivity and diversity. In addition, I welcome the presence of spouses, family members, or friends in our sessions when appropriate.

Your Story Matters

In the eloquent words of Walt Whitman, "That the powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse."

Having shared a piece of my story with you, I'm excited to discover yours.

Let's embark on your path of self-exploration together!