Liz Ruzi, CSWA

(She/Her)

The process of healing is much like growing a garden. Your hands will get dirty as you dig, plant, and nurture. It takes time and care—but eventually, you begin to see the beauty in your effort: flowers blooming, fruits ripening, and growth unfolding.

Liz earned her Master’s in Social Work from Portland State University in 2020 and has worked extensively with individuals experiencing homelessness, trauma, domestic violence, and serious mental illness through housing-first programs in Portland, Oregon. Her work is rooted in trauma-informed care and a client-centered approach, where empathy, trust, and collaboration are at the core.

She believes healing looks different for everyone—and that your therapeutic journey should reflect your unique story, needs, and pace. If you have specific goals, she’ll help you create a personalized path to reach them. If you're unsure where to begin, that’s okay too. Together, you’ll uncover what matters most through reflection, open dialogue, and aligning your narrative with a healthier, more empowered version of yourself.

Whether therapy is structured or more conversational, Liz is committed to creating a space that feels right for you. She welcomes feedback, adapts to your needs, and honors the fact that you are the expert of your own life—while offering a safe space, professional insight, and a grounded presence.

She understands that healing isn't linear. There will be highs and lows, and her role is to walk beside you—helping you build skills, navigate challenges, and nurture resilience that empowers you to move forward with confidence.

Liz often starts with body awareness as a foundation for feeling safe and grounded. This gentle reconnection can be a powerful tool for managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and stress. Her therapeutic toolbox includes motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and trauma-informed techniques.

Outside of work, Liz enjoys gardening, cooking, hiking, yoga, and spending time with her family.