Ivet Castañeda Ruiz

Hola and welcome, my name is Ivet Castañeda Ruiz. I’m a first-generation Chicana and licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience supporting individuals, children, adolescents, and families. My work is rooted in compassion, cultural awareness, and the belief that healing begins when we feel seen and supported. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where we can explore life’s challenges together—whether that’s anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, or navigating major life transitions. My goal is to help you reconnect with your authentic self and develop the tools needed to live the life you envision.

My passion for this work is deeply personal. As a high school student, I was told by a school counselor that “people like you are lucky to even graduate,” referring to my background and socio-economic status. Instead of being guided and encouraged, I was pulled out of my college prep courses—an experience that left me feeling discouraged and unseen. Thankfully, my AVID teacher, my parents, and my sisters (who were already in college) advocated for me, helping me return to the courses I needed. Although I fell behind, I worked tirelessly to catch up. That difficult chapter not only revealed the power of support and self-belief but also shaped my decision to become a therapist. I wanted to ensure that no one else would feel the way I did—dismissed and overlooked.

Today, I use my personal experiences and professional training to help others, especially those from underserved communities, feel empowered, heard, and capable of healing. My journey has taught me the importance of representation, advocacy, and the power of genuine human connection in the healing process. I’m here to walk beside you with empathy, curiosity, and care—honoring your story and supporting you as you grow, heal, and thrive.