Therapist
She/Her/Hers
rruby@wearehelpful.com
(708) 317-9056
In addition to the private practice setting, I provide therapeutic services to adolescents/young adults whom have experienced complex trauma as they prepare to transition to independence. While working in social services I have experienced how genuineness, compassion, and having a therapeutic relationship can have a positive impact on the transformation to a healthier you. I moved to Chicago seven years ago from Iowa--go Hawkeyes! Transiting from small town Iowa to big city living was quite the experience. I had to become comfortable with public transportation, learn my directions, gain patience during traffic, and realize that it's better to walk rather than drive a half mile. The transition was scary, but I fell in love with Chicago and the opportunities it has given me personally and professionally. I truly believe that taking a chance on myself helped me grow into the compassionate clinician I am today. Outside of being a clinician I enjoy cooking, caring for my plants, spending time with friends and family--especially since I am a new aunt, walking around the city, and binging t.v. shows.
“I believe we all have the power to be our best selves, sometimes we may just need someone to support us as we face challenges.”
How my lived experiences shape my work
I am passionate about building trust and providing a safe and non-judgmental environment, in which I create a space for you to feel heard and understood. I believe therapy provides the opportunity for you to experience self-growth in many areas and I empower you to take an active role in creating positive change. I strive to help you feel confident in the process and to maintain your growth in order to utilize what you have gained in therapy, in your daily life. I utilize an eclectic therapeutic approach to individualize treatment based on your specific needs and identified goals. Some of the approaches include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Informed Treatment, Motivational Interviewing, Harm Reduction, and Crisis Management.
The clients I work best with
I received my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology with a specialty in children and adolescents from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I have experience working with a broad range of concerns which include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, domestic violence, trauma and stress related disorders, relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, communication and social skills, behavioral issues, and adjustment/life transitions. I have specialized training certificates in Domestic Violence and Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and I am a trainer in Trauma Crisis Intervention for Families (TCI-F).