Meet Ruthie Perez of Mindful Alliance Therapy LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ruthie Perez.

Hi Ruthie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I began my career as a teacher in underserved schools. I was always drawn to the social-emotional development of my students—their growth, their struggles, and their stories. That pull eventually led me to become a middle school counselor, where I had the opportunity to work closely with young teens and their families.

In that role, I began to notice a troubling pattern: the unique pressures placed on male students and the emotional struggles many fathers were facing—often silently. Witnessing those unmet needs lit a slow-burning fire in me and sparked a deep passion for men’s mental health.

After the birth of my second child, I felt called to make a shift. I wanted more flexibility in my life and a more direct, meaningful impact in my work. That’s when I founded Mindful Alliance Therapy, with the mission of creating space for people to slow down, reflect, and heal.

While I work with all clients—individuals, couples, and families—supporting men’s emotional wellness remains a particular area of passion for me.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Definitely not a smooth road, and I don’t think it’s supposed to be. Shifting from school systems to private practice was both exciting and humbling. I went from being part of a structured environment with a team around me to building something on my own, which came with a steep learning curve; everything from business logistics to redefining my identity as a clinician.

Personally, navigating motherhood while launching a practice was incredibly demanding. Balancing my own needs, being present for my kids, and showing up fully for clients was (and sometimes still is) a challenge. There have been seasons of doubt, exhaustion, and questioning whether I was doing enough, or being enough.

But through all of that, I’ve grown more grounded in my purpose. Those struggles helped me clarify what matters most: showing up authentically, creating space for others to be human, and building a practice that reflects both my values and my life.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Mindful Alliance Therapy is grounded in the belief that therapy works best as a true partnership. The word “Alliance” reflects how I work: with trust, collaboration, and a deep respect for your unique path. Together, we create a space where you can slow down, feel seen, and move toward meaningful change.

I work with individuals, couples, and families. While I welcome a wide range of clients, I specialize in men’s mental health, especially supporting high-achieving men who want to lead more emotionally connected, fulfilling lives. I also have a special interest in supporting clients through life transitions, identity shifts, and relationship challenges.

We offer therapy intensives, including “Growing Family Intensives” for couples preparing for or adjusting to parenthood, as well as individual intensives for clients wanting focused, accelerated support.

What I’m most proud of is the honest, real relationships I get to build with my clients. Therapy at Mindful Alliance isn’t about quick fixes, it’s about deep, sustainable growth. Clients often say they feel genuinely supported, challenged, and more grounded after our work together, and that’s exactly the kind of impact I strive for.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My best advice for finding a mentor or building a network is to lead with curiosity and authenticity. Don’t wait until you feel “ready” or polished; start by reaching out to people whose work resonates with you. Ask genuine questions, express appreciation, and be open about what you’re hoping to learn.

For me, the most meaningful connections have come from simply showing up for trainings, local events, or even in online spaces and being willing to engage thoughtfully. Some of my strongest professional relationships started with a casual email or a shared interest in a niche topic.

Also, mentorship doesn’t have to be formal. Pay attention to who energizes you, who challenges your thinking, and who holds values you admire. Sometimes a podcast, a book, or a one-time conversation can shape your path as much as an official mentor.

Pricing:

• $160 per session cash pay
• accepting major insurance plans
• therapy intensives start at $975

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mindfulalliancetherapy.com
• Instagram: @mindful_alliancetherapy
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthie-perez-lpc-31551b64