Michele Riley, MD is the Owner and Co-Founder of Mosaic Behavioral Health and a Functional & Holistic Medicine Practitioner specializing in young adult coaching and mentoring. She works with individuals ages 16–30 for coaching and mentoring and all ages for scratch and touch therapy Dr Riley helps build essential life skills not typically taught in traditional settings, including emotional wellness, stress management, confidence, and navigating the transition into adulthood.

Dr. Riley’s approach is rooted in a whole-person philosophy, integrating mental, emotional, and lifestyle factors to support long-term well-being.

In addition to her coaching and mentoring work, Dr. Riley provides Touch and Scratch Therapy in her Philadelphia office within a structured, ethical, and client-centered framework. Her work in this modality emphasizes nervous system regulation, grounding, and individualized care, with a strong focus on creating a safe, respectful, and professional therapeutic environment. Her clinical practice is guided by trauma-aware principles, with careful attention to consent, boundaries, and each client’s unique needs.

As a physician, clinician, and practice owner, Dr. Riley plays an active role in the development and oversight of clinical services at Mosaic Behavioral Health, supporting both quality of care and organizational integrity. Her combined experience allows her to provide thoughtful, comprehensive care while contributing to the broader mission of the practice.

Dr. Riley offers both virtual sessions for clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, as well as in-person appointments in Philadelphia.

What Is Touch Therapy?

Touch Therapy is a therapeutic, body-based intervention that focuses on promoting relaxation, grounding, and nervous system regulation through intentional, professional touch. It is offered within a clinical setting and is guided by clear boundaries, informed consent, and the individual comfort level of each client.

How Touch Therapy Is Performed

Touch Therapy is always client-centered and collaborative. Before any session begins, the therapist and client discuss comfort levels, boundaries, and specific preferences. Clients are fully clothed, and touch is applied only to agreed-upon areas using techniques such as light pressure, grounding touch, or patterned contact. The therapist continuously checks in throughout the session and adjusts or stops at any time based on the client’s feedback.

Sessions may be conducted while the client is seated or lying comfortably, depending on what feels safest and most supportive. Touch is never required, and clients remain in full control of the process at all times.

How Touch Therapy Supports Relaxation

Intentional touch can help activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, which plays a key role in relaxation and stress reduction. Many clients report feeling calmer, more grounded, and more connected to their bodies after sessions. Touch Therapy may be particularly helpful for individuals experiencing anxiety, stress, emotional dysregulation, or difficulty with body awareness.

The goal of Touch Therapy is not physical manipulation, but rather to support emotional safety, regulation, and overall well-being in a respectful and therapeutic manner.

What Is Scratch Therapy?

Scratch Therapy is a body-based therapeutic intervention designed to support relaxation, grounding, and nervous system regulation through gentle, intentional scratching techniques. It is offered within a clinical and ethical framework, with a strong emphasis on consent, safety, and the individual comfort of each client.

How Scratch Therapy Is Performed

Scratch Therapy is always guided by the client’s preferences and comfort level. Prior to beginning, the therapist and client discuss boundaries, pressure, pacing, and approved areas for contact. Clients may remain fully clothed, if they like, and scratching is performed using light, rhythmic movements on agreed-upon areas such as the arms, hands, or shoulders.

The therapist checks in regularly throughout the session to ensure the experience remains supportive and comfortable. Clients may request adjustments or discontinue the intervention at any time. Scratch Therapy can be offered while the client is seated or lying down, depending on what feels most grounding and safe.

How Scratch Therapy Promotes Relaxation

Gentle scratching can provide consistent sensory input that helps calm the nervous system and increase body awareness. Many clients report feeling relaxed, soothed, and more present in their bodies following sessions. Scratch Therapy may be especially beneficial for individuals who respond well to tactile input and are seeking non-verbal methods of emotional regulation.

The primary goal of Scratch Therapy is to foster a sense of safety, calm, and regulation within the body while maintaining clear therapeutic boundaries and client autonomy.