Oppositional Defiance (ODD) Therapists in La Crescenta, CA

Rui is a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in the treatment of trauma, developmental and attachment trauma, dissociative disorders and reactions to other stressful events in teens and adults. Rui is a certified somatic therapist combining Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment, as well as Attachment-Focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Rui's approach is holistic (mind-body-spirit), non-violent, mindfulness-based, and attachment-based, as well as based on Interpersonal Neurobiology which is also the foundation of Rui's parenting consultation and coaching practice.

I practice from both a relational and an attachment based framework. It’s widely known that the main driver of successful outcome in psychotherapy is the quality of the relationship between the patient and the clinician. It is also acknowledged that the majority of mental health issues are either caused, maintained, or intensified by unhealthy relationships. For these reasons, I place a great deal of emphasis upon our relationship as a foundation for implementing any clinical interventions.

Many people often experience feelings of being misunderstood or isolated in difficult situations where their loved ones are unable to help them navigate their emotional responses. My approach to therapy is to hear you, to understand your perspective, and to provide a supportive environment for authentic self-expression. I enjoy assisting clients with growth and discovery of new pathways to healing. Whether you are experiencing difficulty with depression, anxiety, communication, trauma, relationships, identity, or growth, I will be able to assist you in processing your experiences by providing guidance toward finding your balance.

Are you dragging through each day in a repetitive and mind-numbing cycle? Have you traded merely surviving instead of thriving? Are you depressed, anxious, and wondering if life has more to offer? If so, therapy can help you achieve a more satisfying relationship and more rewarding work. I would be pleased to assist you on your journey to discover your full potential.

When life stressors lead to feelings of sadness, anger, irritability, confusion, or anxiousness, it might be time to seek professional help. These feelings are common and may impact our mood, energy, relationships, and overall daily functioning. But remember, you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m here to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space to process those feelings, explore and understand where those emotions might be coming from, and learn new skills to improve your overall quality of life.

Many individuals find themselves in moments where getting through the day can be a struggle and have no idea what could be triggering this loss of excitement and hope. In these moments it can be helpful to work with a therapist that can provide a safe space to openly talk about what life challenges have presented themselves in your life. I specialize in working collaboratively with Adults of all ages and I help provide guidance towards a path of regaining the self you feel you have lost and gaining hope for the possibilities ahead.

Not feeling like your "usual self" but can't figure out why? Are you irritable, uninterested in your previously enjoyable activities, or disengaged from daily life? Is your mind replaying old scenarios or repeating "What if" questions and worrisome thoughts? Perhaps your current coping skills just aren't hitting the mark this time... Involved in a relationship where either you or your partner seem plagued by "trust issues", insecurity, and revolving arguments? Are you seeing changes in expressions of love and sexual interest or thinking "my significant other doesn't understand me?"

Life can be full of challenges, but also rewards. Therapy can help us to have better relationships with our family and friends, as well as those in our extended communities. Those are extensions of our relationships with ourselves. I would like to help you build those relationships by providing a safe and welcoming non-judgmental environment. Together we will design and build the mental and emotional structure where you can live your happiest life that is mindful and peaceful.

Animating Principle's Workshop is where compassion and critical thinking meet. From the neurodivergent, whimsical, creative minds of Animating Principle's husband and wife duo, Britney and Sean, the Workshop is a one-of-a-kind space that offers a variety of individual and group personal enrichment and therapy services. The Workshop's unique classes promote positive socialization, psychoeducation, and healthy coping for children, teens, and parents. Art, Lego, STEM, and Disney-themed coping classes available, as well as traditional, play, and art therapy for all ages.

I know that you’re looking for someone supportive and accepting, so I approach therapy from a place of understanding and kindness. Starting therapy and exploring the most important parts of your life is a difficult process and it matters to me to create a safe and personal connection with people so that you look forward to coming to sessions. My approach is non-judgmental and insightful, and I’m also very active in sessions by being curious and exploring causes and sources of patterns in your life. Our work together will help you gain a better understanding of yourself and your relationships.