Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Cindy Ruelas-Tafolla.
Hi Dr. Cindy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey began when I was just 13, when most teenagers are navigating the awkward in-between of childhood and adolescence, I was facing the unimaginable: the sudden death of my father. It was a loss that shattered my world and left my family reeling in grief. What followed was a storm of emotions—anxiety, depression, anger, and despair. But even in that darkness, something quietly began to take root: a sense of purpose. I didn’t have the words for it then, now that I reflect, I knew I wanted to be the kind of person I needed at that time—someone who could sit with others in their pain, guide them through it, and help them find their strength again.That calling only grew louder in the years that followed.
With my mother devastated by grief and younger siblings needing care, I stepped into a role far beyond my years. Despite the emotional weight and adult responsibilities, I clung fiercely to my pursuit in education, seeing it not just as a personal goal, but as a path forward for my entire family. I juggled high school, dual-credit college classes, and a full-time job—often all in a single day. My efforts paid off when I earned my Bachelor of Arts with a major in Law and Society from the University of Santa Barbara, California. But rather than pursuing a legal career, I followed my heart into social work, enrolling in the prestigious Master of Social Work program at the University of Southern California (USC). Years later, during the height of the Covid pandemic, I earned my Doctorate degree at USC.
I spent the past two decades of my career helping others heal in a variety of settings, as a Medical Social Worker, Case Manager, and as a Behavioral Health Therapist. In these various roles, I gained insight into the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, the systemic barriers to healing, the power of resiliency and the human connection, the importance of advocacy, and the need for ensuring personalized care in helping individuals heal.
When the world paused, my purpose accelerated. The pandemic became the catalyst for the birth of Dr. Cindy Ruelas-Tafolla Counseling Services, PLLC, a tele-health private practice founded on a core truth: every struggle carries the blueprint for a profound transformation. Today, as a therapist, coach, and advocate, I am devoted to a single, powerful mission: helping people turn their deepest wounds into their greatest strengths.
In the sacred space of therapy, I guide clients through the difficult journey of confronting deep-seated depression, disabling anxiety, grief, and trauma. In my coaching work, I stand beside them as they transition from being held captive by fear to architecting a future built with clarity and conviction.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The purpose that fuels my private practice is rooted in my own story. My early childhood hardships, coupled with navigating barriers like limited financial resources, balancing familial obligations and a lack of representation, built a profound well of resilience and determination. This is not merely a career; it is my life’s work, driven by a deep conviction to help others find the same path to healing and life-changing transformation.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Dr.Cindy Ruelas-Tafolla Counseling Services, PLLC.?
Dr. Cindy Ruelas-Tafolla, DSW, LCSW, CCM, CWC, BCD. Licensed in Texas, Nevada, Colorado, New Mexico, Florida & Wyoming. I hold a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Southern California and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Case Manager, Certified Wellness Coach, and Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work.
What sets my work apart is the integration of clinical expertise and coaching strategies to help individuals achieve their fullest potential. My approach bridges the best of both worlds—therapy and coaching—allowing for a personalized and integrative path to healing and growth. I specialize in evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
It’s not necessary to choose between healing from the past and building the future. This integrative approach blends advanced therapy modalities (like CBT, DBT, and Trauma-Focused Therapy) with powerful coaching strategies (ACT and Solution-Focused Therapy). I offer personalized support needed to process a story, navigate obstacles, and find victory.
My mission is to create a safe and nurturing space within a virtual setting allowing clients to process their stories, navigate difficult life challenges, and help them transition to a place of healing and transformation. I believe every challenge has the potential to become a victory, and my purpose is to walk alongside people until they believe that too. I offer Counseling, Coaching, and Psychological evaluations.
What are your plans for the future?
To broaden my impact and reach a wider audience, I am launching new initiatives, including speaking engagements, psycho-educational workshops, and a podcast.
Pricing:
- Counseling Services $150-200
- Coaching Services $150-200
- Emotional Service Animal Letters $250
- Immigration Psychological Evaluations $800-$1,000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://drcindyruelas-tafolla.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcindy_rt?igsh=MWw0bzducHZlZTc0Zw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-cindy-ruelas-tafolla-dsw-lcsw-ccm-icf-clc-10875551
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr..cindy.rt?_t=ZT-8zhPHXWrw4s&_r=1
