Ruben Velazquez, AMFT

Hi – I’m Ruben and I’m originally from Southern California. As a proud gay Mexican American, my upbringing in a religious, bilingual, and bicultural household shaped the lens through which I view the world. In my early 30s, it was through my self-discovery in therapy that led me to pursue a career change to mental health. Unveiling the layers of my own identity, I discovered that I am more than the sum of my experiences, and that realization ignited a fervent desire to guide others on their own empowering journeys.

I’m on a mission to create a space for couples and individuals to explore their own narratives.

I have experience working with couples and individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues/conflict, life transitions, self-esteem, and trauma. My therapeutic approach revolves around a collaborative relationship with clients aiming to comprehend their multifaceted selves and establish goals to reduce distress. My practice is firmly rooted in neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+ affirmation, intersectionality, and providing a supportive space for self-identified third-culture kids and people of color.

I firmly believe that traumatic experiences can overwhelm our coping mechanisms, shaping narratives that influence our perception of events. In a world inundated with information that molds our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, my focus is on promoting self-discovery against social constructs that may be distressing our lived experiences. Together, let’s navigate the complexities of life and foster resilience through understanding and empowerment.

Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #132799, Supervised by Corey Barber LMFT, #124917