My name is Contessa Ruiz and I am happy that you have found your way to my website. I have been in practice for over 10 years and in that time I have discovered the true value in human connection and how it can affect lives. I have been working with children and teens my whole life and what I have come to realize is that “everyone” needs “someone”.
If you find yourself feeling beat down by the pressures of the world you have come to the right place. In my years of work I have come to learn that there really is no “right” way to live. Instead the true quest of this life is to figure out what is most beneficial in creating the best you. I believe everyone needs to feel a sense of purpose in order to thrive. In fact I think when people feel a lack of connection and attachment mental health symptoms arise.
I often tell clients that my views of therapy are similar to that of a taxi driver. In using this analogy I see myself as the driver allowing my clients time and space to figure out where they would like to go. Staying within the analogy as your driver I can sit with you in the car for as long as necessary while we figure out what is needed to get where we are going. Once you have a better idea of what that place looks like I can support you in getting there. Through the process of therapy and various coping techniques I am a firm believer that any problem can be overcome. Healing can truly occur and you can “get to your destination in a “self”” you never knew possible.
Previous to private practice I worked for various agencies and found that I longed for the ability to work at my own pace rather than what was necessary to maintain my required productivity.
I would begin work with clients and struggle to adhere to various models of treatment because that was what the budgets allowed for. I found myself wanting to maintain my own eclectic taste.
I have a strong desire to help people, many who know me say I always have. Initially I wanted to be a third grade teacher but quickly realized my focus was on the emotional development of my students rather than the academic development. I found myself constantly chasing the “why”. Why couldn’t the student seem to gain understanding of certain concepts. Was there something going on within the home? Was there something going on within themselves? Quickly upon realizing this I became highly overwhelmed as I realized there was no way I could maintain all 36 students emotional well being while also focusing on their academic well being.
I quickly switched graduate programs and never looked back. In my spare time I enjoy traveling and taking on adventures with my family. I love meeting new people and immersing myself in new cultures. My love for learning never ends.
Associations
- CAMFT
