I am a psychodynamic (https:www.helpguide.orgmental-healthtreatmentpsychodynamic-therapy) and relational therapist who helps adults explore how past experiences and relationship patterns have shaped present feelings and choices. In a warm and attuned space we will uncover unconscious beliefs, process emotions, and practice new ways of relating. If you are ready for thoughtful and deep work that aims to create lasting change, I welcome you to reach out.

I am accepting new clients. There is no question life has its ups and downs. Sometimes we all just need a little extra support. I work with people from many walks of life dealing with many different situations. I treat adolescents, adults, couples, and families with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life changes, relationships, addiction, trauma, and many other challenges. I use an evidence-based approach to psychotherapy drawing on theories core to psychology. I use an individualized combination of cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, and other strength-based strategies to treat clients and support them in achieving time-linked, measurable goals. I offer a free 10-minute consultation and look forward to hearing from you.

My approach to working with individuals and couples is collaborative. I believe the client brings wisdom and insight about their own needs and patterns. I appreciate the emergent and organic processes that occur in therapy. I want clients to explore what they feel compelled to share and process. I balance that need with clear and defined treatment goals that build self-efficacy, authenticity, a greater ability to work through distress, stronger relational patterns, and greater dexterity in knowing both the self and important others. I am versed in a lot of therapeutic modalities, including psychoanalysis, existential therapy, ACT, DBT, MBSR, CPT, exposure therapies, and couples and relational therapy. I tailor my approach and conceptualization to the needs and effectiveness of each client or couple.

I believe most of us, in some way, have an idea of how we would like our lives and relationships to be, however many of us find ourselves stuck, not knowing how to get there; I specialize in helping Couples, whether married or dating, to improve their lives. I listen, provide a safe place an understanding ear, helping you and your partner, correct destructive patterns, learn new skills, and create a loving and rewarding life together. I aid couples in striving towards that perfect relationship or healing from the most difficult of wounds. We move at your pace and will focus on the areas that you feel are the most important.

My style of therapy is warm, accepting and compassionate. I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate life's challenges and pursue personal growth. Therapy is the beginning of new possibilities and scheduling an appointment is a brave first step. I work with adolescents, teens and adults from all walks of life. My goal is to create a safe space where you can share your story, including your fears, worries, sadness, trauma and loss, as well as your joys, achievements and strengths. You are the expert in your own life and your experiences are uniquely your own. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, difficulties in relationships, parenting struggles, grief or issues with worklife balance. Unfortunately, we often get stuck in unconscious patterns or ineffective modes of coping. We will work together to explore and develop insight around your thought patterns and responses to life events and work towards gaining new skills and achieving desired goals. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and specialize in trauma-informed, person-centered, strengths-based care. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities and techniques to address the issues that are interfering with your quality of life. I use empathy and understanding to meet you where you are and respond in a way that best fits your needs in order for you to live a life of meaning, purpose and balance. I look forward to taking this journey with you!

Are you feeling that things are bleak and hopeless? Are you struggling with the reminders of difficult experiences in your past? Or maybe you are living with a chronic illness that has lowered your quality of life. We all feel the pull not only to survive but to thrive in our lives. Depression, anxiety, trauma, illness, and pain can limit our ability to reach our goals or even make it difficult to get through the day. These limitations are not a personal failing. Sometimes, it takes a trained professional to help us overcome or manage these personal challenges. Together, I believe we can work towards making positive changes in your life, relationships, and self.

When dealing with emotional or mental health challenges, my primary intention is to support you by incorporating techniques that help reframe unhelpful thoughts, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and encourage you to identify your key goals. Together, we can determine the steps we need to take in order to achieve them. Much of my experience is in individual therapy and outreach work, where I help people work toward their life goals and navigate emotional and mental health challenges. I incorporate various client-centered approaches that focus on supporting you in reaching self-actualization around your objectives. My work also prioritizes creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and supported with what you’re going through.

You may be feeling stuck — caught in patterns you can’t quite change, struggling with anxiety, self-criticism, or the effects of past experiences. You might be navigating relationship challenges, communication struggles, or a sense of disconnection — from yourself, or someone you love. Whether you’re seeking therapy on your own or with a partner, I offer a therapeutic space for you to slow down, understand what’s happening beneath the surface, and begin to feel calmer, more confident, and present in your life and relationships. Most people I work with describe feeling relieved and hopeful after starting therapy. Clients often share that they start to feel more stable, self-aware, and capable of handling life’s challenges with self-compassion. Each session is meant to help you gain clarity, feel supported, and take small, meaningful steps toward a more fulfilling life. I offer a collaborative approach grounded in nervous system regulation, trauma recovery, and the influence of attachment and family of origin, helping you gain practical tools for coping, alongside deeper insight that supports long-term growth. If you’re ready to take the next step, I invite you to book a free consultation to see if we’re a good fit!

Spanish and English speaking. Accepting new patients in person and via telehealth for couples, families, substance use condition groups, and individuals. Therapists in my practice also accept couples counseling, with evening time slots still available for those who work, as well as morning and daytime options. Pedro Ruiz is a licensed mental health counselor in Washington who has been practicing since 2017. Outside of work, Pedro is an advanced chess player who enjoys the art of solving problems, singing (salsa music), spending time with family, trying new food, and traveling. He enjoys working with adults, families, and couples. He has a Master of Science in professional counseling, with 17+ years of experience with addiction counseling, depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress (PTSD), and trauma. He likes working on couples issues using emotionally focused therapy (EFT) and the Gottman approach. Pedro is fluent in Spanish and English. Pedro strives to listen actively, gain an understanding of the underlying issues and challenges, and provide guidance to overcome, find relief, and experience healing from emotional and psychological pain.

Life has a way of knocking us off balance when we least expect it. Just when you think you’re on solid ground, everything can suddenly shift, leaving you feeling disoriented and overwhelmed. Soon, fear, anxiety, and despair take hold and throw you deeper into the shadows. Given the challenges at hand, old coping mechanisms fall short, and what once felt like strengths now seem inadequate. You feel trapped, as if you are at the mercy of external forces you have little control over. Sometimes, you wonder if you’re destined to struggle this way forever. Don’t lose faith in yourself! This is an opportunity for new beginnings, innovative solutions, and fresh perspectives. My integrative approach is designed to help you tap into the intuitive wisdom of your body, heart, mind, and soul. Whether you’re facing illness, loss, trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, I can guide you toward thriving instead of merely surviving. Together, we can create a deeper alignment between your inner and outer worlds, fostering a greater sense of peace and well-being even in the face of challenges. I’ll provide you with a toolkit of resources and practices that promote ease, clarity, purpose, and freedom. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Reach out today for a free 15-minute consultation and take the first step toward a more empowered and fulfilling life.

I specialize working with couples, individuals and families. I support each individual's life style choices and will help you achieve your chosen goals. When there is full understanding of a problem, yet find the same cycle recreated, I will help you successfully break out of the emotional cycles that are difficult to alter. I offer a safe place to explore concerns about relationships, parenting, marriage, transition, occupation, separation, depression, stress, trauma, and anxiety. I specialized in internal family system, human development, and healing trauma since 1995.