Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor, EMDR Certified Therapist
Debra Ruisard, DSW, LCSW, LCADC
Neuroscience has found that the experiences of emotional and physical trauma linger in our bodies long after the trauma has passed. Often talk therapy is ineffective until one learns how to calm the body's heightened state of anxiety, allowing the mind to focus on healing rather than survival. My approach integrates cognitive, emotional and body based interventions based on the preference of each individual client.
About Me
- Specializes in Treating Early Childhood Trauma, PTSD, & Drug and Alcohol Abuse
- Trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Certified Therapist
- Treats Older Adolescents and Adults
Biography
Debra Ruisard is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor with extensive knowledge and experience working with individuals who have early childhood experiences of complex trauma. She received both her Master and Doctor of Social Work Degrees from Rutgers University. She has over 12 years of experience working in inpatient, outpatient, residential and private practice settings specializing in treating adolescents and adults who have experienced traumatic stress and co-occurring substance use disorders. She is the Clinical Director at The Center for Great Expectations a non-profit agency in Somerset, NJ, that serves homeless pregnant and parenting adults and adolescents with substance use and mental health disorders. She is a part-time lecturer at Rutgers University School of Social Work.
Personal Statement
“Making the decision to engage in psychotherapy is an important step in healing from traumatic life events that leave emotional wounds long into adulthood and often lead to depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues and personal distress. I work with individuals who wish to address the impact of traumatic stress from early childhood experiences of relational, emotional, physical and sexual abuse as well as domestic violence, sexual assault and other traumatic events that occur in adolescence and adulthood. My approach to working with individuals suffering from traumatic stress comes from an understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Often traditional talk therapy is ineffective until one learns how to calm the body’s heightened state of anxiety and therefore allowing the mind to focus on healing rather than survival.
Almost 80% of individuals who struggle with substance abuse have also experienced trauma. Substance abuse is often an effective but maladaptive coping strategy for the emotional and physical stress responses that linger long after the traumatic experience is over. When the decision is made to stop abusing substances, these trauma symptoms return and increase the risk of relapse. I assist clients to understand the impact that trauma has on their current functioning, to discover the connection between their substance use and their trauma symptoms, and to develop new strategies for recovery that start with the body.
My therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and based in attachment theory. In addition to using traditional psychotherapy techniques, I utilize EMDR and Sensory Motor Psychotherapy for treating the symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders that cause distress. I am a Registered Yoga Teacher and promote the benefits of combining trauma sensitive yoga practices (meditation, breathing, mindfulness, postures, etc) with psychotherapy.”
Services
Ready to Chat?
Our staff is here to answer any questions you may have about Debra Ruisard and her services.
Contact UsOther Team Members
Executive Director, Licensed Professional Counselor, IFS Certified Therapist
Jean Robinson, LPC
"I create a supportive, non-judgmental, compassionate environment for client's to feel safe, respected and free to discuss any topic brought to counseling. My approach to counseling is client-centered & integrates various modalities using Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). I provide counseling that is direct and goal oriented, yet compassionate, focusing on strengths and building on success. I enjoy working with teens/parents & couples to facilitate conscious communication which enhances their intimate relationships. I help connect clients with their own inner wisdom, enhance their clarity & decision making so that they can experience real transformation in their lives..."
Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Child/Adolescent Therapy, Neuropsychological Testing
Mahuya Ghosh, Ph.D.
"It's that 'A-ha' moment, that look of recognition and relief, when I've finally crossed the "psychological" bridge and developed a connection with someone. Over the past 10 years, I have worked with children/adolescents struggling with numerous issues, such as ADHD, depression, and family conflict. I provide a supportive and nurturing environment and, in conjunction with positive reinforcement from parents, a change starts to happen..."
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor, EMDR Certified Therapist
Debra Ruisard, DSW, LCSW, LCADC
"Making the decision to engage in psychotherapy is an important step in healing from traumatic life events that leave emotional wounds long into adulthood. I work with individuals who wish to address the impact of traumatic stress from early childhood experiences of relational, emotional, physical and sexual abuse as well as domestic violence, sexual assault and other traumatic events that occur in adolescence and adulthood. My approach to working with individuals suffering from traumatic stress comes from an understanding that trauma is stored in the body..."
Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, Approved Clinical Supervisor
Lisa Zaneto, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS
"I have a great appreciation for the adolescent mind. Developmentally, adolescence is an important time of discovery in an individuals life that comes with many emotional junctures, milestone celebrations, and stages of growth. I believe that by creating a safe and non-judgmental environment, clients will feel supported during these times and increase personal confidence allowing them to make positive decisions, meet their goals and set the foundation for future success. I believe that bringing creative therapeutic techniques into sessions is very helpful especially when adolescents are having trouble verbalizing what they are feeling or experiencing. Bringing things like journaling, grounding, music and art into sessions increases clients sense of safety and encourages them to be able to bring any topics into the counseling session. Together, the client and I will work through symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-injurious behaviors, school related issues, and other stressors."
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Rebecca LaSala, MSW, LCSW
"Building genuine therapeutic relationships is the foundation of my work as a therapist. I believe that when people have a sense of emotional safety there is a natural opening for healing, growth, discovery, and transformation. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and non judgemental environment where people will feel safe enough to express their vulnerabilities, allow themselves to connect to their emotions, and tap into their innate inner strengths to be successful and meet their goals.
My approach to therapy is psychodynamic which gives individuals the freedom to self reflect and help them identify patterns that contribute to unique challenges they face. I incorporate the use of unique and creative grounding and emotional regulation techniques to help people navigate complex emotional experiences. Being client-centered is another value I bring to each session as I give the opportunity for clients to incorporate their own regulation tools (art, music, games, etc.) to help them feel more comfortable during sessions. When people feel supported and empowered I believe they build the confidence they need to make healthy choices and recognize the potential for future success."
Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, IFS Therapist
Erin Webb, LPC, NCC
“I believe that each client that walks through our doors deserves care and attention. Individuals reach out in times of stress or difficulty and I work hard to make the process of seeking help as smooth and welcoming as possible. My approach to counseling is client-centered & integrates various modalities through an Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) framework. I meet clients where they are at and work collaboratively with them to establish realistic goals for treatment, to identify and build on strengths, and to create a supportive environment where clients feel safe to connect to their emotions or express vulnerabilities..."
Psychotherapist, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Angela Wilson, APRN
Angela Wilson is a licensed psychotherapist psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience working with families, adults, and children in outpatient and inpatient settings. She enjoys working with all age groups and using different modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and collaborative problem solving to address most mental health issues. She believes in developing a partnership with the children, adults, and families she works with to collaboratively develop a plan of care that leads to healing and optimal health. This may include all family members or just those able to participate. Angela has also received training in using CBT for insomnia. Angela has been trained to work with families to improve communication and resolve conflicts using a Bowen Family Systems model that she was trained in during her time at the University of Pennsylvania. Angela graduated from Boston University with a BSN and went to graduate school at the University of Pennsylvania to study child and family psychiatric nursing. She later pursued a MA in Elementary Education at the University of San Francisco to complement her experiences in mental health. She is also certified as a Child/Adolescent Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist by ANCC.
Certified Aromatherapist, Reiki Practitioner, EFT Practitioner
Susan Niedt, M.Ed., CA, CTA
Susan Niedt is a Certified Aromatherapist, Reiki I and Reiki II, and a Certified Positive EFT Practitioner. She studied Aromatherapy at Aromahead Institute and Aromatic Wisdom Institute. She is an active member of NAHA. Her love of plants and their unique healing properties brought her to the world of Aromatherapy, through which she discovered that combining both the therapeutic and energetic properties of essential oils with EFT and Reiki protocols, deeper levels of healing can be experienced.
Administrative Assistant
Bhavna Williams
Bhavna has a BA in Political Science and Business Management from Drew University. Bhavna has 10 years experience working in the Human Resource industry in various capacities for such companies as ADP and Citigroup. Through her various positions, Bhavna has developed a strong background in customer relations. Bhavna has shared her communication skills as a volunteer for her local school.