Melissa Estrada-Ruiz

My communication style

My goal is to create a safe space for clients to feel heard and understood as they navigate through their journey. I aim to cultivate a warm and inviting environment where they are met with empathy and support while recognizing necessary elements such as change, personal strengths, and radical acceptance.

My journey to mental healthcare

I have long felt that a career in serving others is something I wanted to dedicate my life to. I began my work in the field as a school mental health counselor and fell in love with the work of individual therapy. Since then, I have worked at rehab centers, medical clinics, and non-profits.

My goals for you

I strongly believe that this is a collateral approach. Goals need to be discussed and agreed upon together, where the client is ultimately in charge of the driver's seat. Providers are a support system, but clients are the ones who have to do the work outside of session.

Our first session

The first visit is a time to get to know you a little bit and gain an understanding of what brought you into therapy. It is an opportunity for clients to also assess if they feel the provider was a good fit. Having a good rapport is necessary in this work, and I will always support clients in seeking that, even if it is not with me.

I identify as...

• Female
• Hispanic or Latinx
• Christian