Kayla Ruiz, MSW

As a therapist, I believe healing begins in spaces where we feel safe enough to be fully ourselves. I strive to create that space—grounded in compassion, honesty, and cultural humility—where clients can explore their stories without judgment and move toward growth, clarity, and wholeness.

I earned my Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and am a Supervisee in Social Work currently working toward clinical licensure. My approach is trauma-informed, relational, and strengths-based, drawing from modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, mindfulness, and emotionally focused and relational approaches.

I am a proud first-generation college graduate, a wife, and a mother of four in a multicultural, blended family. My lived experience includes both navigating my own mental health journey and supporting loved ones with severe and persistent mental illness. Rather than limiting me, these experiences deepen my empathy, sharpen my clinical insight, and strengthen my ability to hold space for others with compassion and professionalism. I am committed to creating an affirming, inclusive space for all clients and proudly stand as an ally to BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and neurodivergent individuals, as well as those impacted by systemic injustice and marginalization.

In addition to my lived experience, I bring clinical training in anti-oppressive practice, cultural humility, and Aggression Replacement Training (ART), which supports individuals in building emotional regulation, social skills, and healthy decision-making. I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families—particularly those impacted by trauma, generational cycles, identity exploration, and systemic barriers. My hope is to help you feel grounded, understood, and supported as you work toward the life and relationships you want.

Outside of therapy, I love spending time with my family, homeschooling my children, listening to music, reading, exploring local spots in Hampton Roads, and traveling when I can. I bring the same curiosity, creativity, and care to life that I bring to the therapy space.

Self-pay: $75 per session