As a dedicated therapist and owner of Freed Minds, I am committed to supporting individuals on their journey to holistic well-being. By focusing on understanding and nurturing the whole person, I integrate various therapeutic approaches to address the mind, body, and spirit. My practice is deeply rooted in the belief that each individual is unique and capable of profound growth and transformation. This conviction drives my commitment to helping you live your most authentic and fulfilling life. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation, empowering you to lead a life filled with purpose and joy.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR Certified. I understand that individuals are continually adapting to their surroundings and doing their best to manage amongst systemic, environmental, and interpersonal stressors. In my therapy sessions, I offer a space for individuals to both process their experiences and explore strategies for managing stressors in a healthy way. I have extensive experience over the past 15 years supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
I am a independently licensed therapist, with professional experience since 2014. I've earned my Bachelors in Art from Albany State University in Albany Georgia; and my Master's in Art Therapy/Counseling from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. My professional experience extends to working in the Illinois Department of Corrections, various hospital settings, community outpatient services, and crisis intervention settings.
Hi, my name is Dr. Nikki Ruffin. I am a licensed clinical professional counselor in the state of Illinois a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of California and a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Indiana. I have my doctorate in Counseling and Education and I've been in practice for about 20 years. I work mostly with adults with anxiety, depression, grief, and loss and trauma, as well as life transitions and relationship issues.
I am a husband of 14 years, a father of a 11 y/o neurodivergent son and a 7 y/o precocious daughter, a veteran of the US Navy with 12 years served, including 1 deployment, and a geek. I am what the Japanese culture describes as an otaku, in that I work to support my passions. In my free time I enjoy video games (mostly on Nintendo Switch), movies (all kinds, although my favorite is the 2005 animated Transformers movie), books (current favorite author is Brandon Sanderson), and spending time with my family.
Hi, I’m a psychotherapist with over 26 years of experience—and I still wake up every day passionate about what I do. I believe therapy is about more than just working through problems; it’s about reconnecting with yourself, rediscovering your strengths, and creating lasting change. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and a deep respect for your individual journey.
I create a space where you can show up exactly as you are—no judgment, no pressure. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back, tap into your inner resilience, and build tools to help you move forward with confidence. I use evidence-based practices tailored to your needs, whether we’re addressing anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, or simply the desire to live with more clarity and purpose.
Helping people heal and grow is not just my job—it’s my calling. Let’s take this journey together.