Gabriela Ruiz
(she/her)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience providing psychotherapy and clinical social work across medical, academic, and private practice settings. My clinical work is grounded in trauma-informed care, psychoeducation, and a commitment to evidence-based, integrative treatment that supports each client’s individual goals and strengths. My experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and families in settings such as UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital and Kaiser Permanente. These diverse environments have informed a comprehensive approach that values collaboration, holistic assessment, and continuity of care.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Currently, my practice focuses on working with adolescents, young adults and adults navigating life transitions, grief and loss, and identity development, with attention to how early experiences influence present emotional and relational patterns. Drawing on my background in child and adolescent psychoanalytic psychotherapy, I integrate developmental and psychodynamic perspectives to deepen insight and facilitate lasting change.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
As a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish), I provide culturally responsive care that honors the intersection of language, culture, and identity in the therapeutic process. My treatment approach blends psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and strength-based modalities, incorporating elements of ADHD-focused interventions and psychoeducation when appropriate.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I am focused on working with adolescents, adults, seniors and people with disabilities and chronic illness.
Specialties
Top specialtiesAnxiety
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Career Counseling
Coping Skills
Family Conflict
I identify as
Hispanic / Latinx
Person of Color (POC)
Woman
Serves ages
Adults (18 to 64)
Elders (65 and above)
Teenagers (13 to 17)
Licensed in
California
Accepts
Cash - $170 per session
Location
Virtual
My treatment methods
Psychodynamic
Psychodynamic therapy is a form of talk therapy that helps people understand how their unconscious thoughts, past experiences, and early relationships influence their current emotions and behaviors. It focuses on exploring patterns, feelings, and conflicts that may be outside of awareness, with the goal of gaining insight and developing healthier ways of relating to oneself and others. Through this deeper self-understanding, clients can work toward lasting emotional growth and change.
1 rating with written reviews
August 18, 2025
I always feel comfortable talking with Gabriela she listens aces has enlightening answers