Karen Ruiz is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of New York. Karen specializes in working with teens, young adults, and families. She received her Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Hofstra University and her Bachelors Degree in Psychology from St. John’s University.

Prior to working in private practice, Karen’s background consisted of working with a diverse population including, people of color and immigrants, as well as working with teens and adults facing various mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, panic disorders, and substance abuse. She gained her experience at a community mental health agency working across the New York City area, and her involvement also extended to teens and their families in public schools and an outpatient substance abuse program.

Working with a diverse group of individuals has further enriched her understanding of how culture may influence how one struggles with mental health and interpersonal relationships.  Karen strives to create a space where teens and adults feel comfortable and safe to discuss and create positive change. She collaborates with her clients to identify goals, gather insight into their thought patterns as well as their behavioral patterns, establish coping techniques, and cultivate healthier behaviors.

Karen grew up in Queens, New York as a first generation Nicaraguan-American and is bilingual, Spanish-speaking. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and her dog, Watson. Karen also enjoys spending time outdoors and loves kayaking, hiking, camping, snowboarding, and rock climbing.