Book a therapist or psychiatrist in San Luis Obispo, CA covered by Cigna

A core priority in my work is helping clients reclaim the power of their voice. Therapy is most meaningful as a collaborative process where you are not only heard, but truly attempted to be known. As an Iranian American therapist, I understand the richness and complexity of holding multiple cultural identities. I especially enjoy supporting Highly Sensitive People (HSPs), as well working with teenagers and adults navigating identity formation, relationships, and the often tender process of growing into themselves. There’s room here for deep healing, honest conversations, and the occasional ‘okay, but why is my brain doing THAT?’

Who I Am: In my nursing career of over 25 years I have undergone extensive training in the specialized fields of neurology and psychiatry, which eventually led me to my true passion of becoming a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Throughout my career, I’ve been deeply interested in the brain and its complexity. My path into mental health was shaped by a lifetime of witnessing the impact of mental illness on those around me. Helping others grow, improve their well-being, and experience a better quality of life has always been a central passion of mine, and it continues to guide the work I do today.

As a board certified psychotherapist, I believe therapy should feel safe, collaborative, and empowering to individuals of all ages. I have 8 years of experience in the field in working with children, adolescents, and adults navigating through depression, anxiety, and everyday life stressors. I am passionate about supporting individuals through my multi-modal therapeutic approach which integrates CBT and solution-focused, reality-based strategies to support emotional regulation, self-awareness, and meaningful change.

My work centers queer and transgender preteens, teens, and adults, as well as individuals with current or past foster care involvement. My clients may be feeling overwhelmed, questioning their identity, or don't know where to start with therapy. I can support you by helping you notice patterns and build trust in your own process.

IMPORTANT: All clients must complete our intake form and sign our policies before their appointment. Please complete these documents at https://intakeq.com/new/6oakjo/lusjbb or contact us at 602-800-4699 (call or text). Please also email or text us a copy of your photo ID/driver's license at [email protected]

For the most current schedule and openings, please book directly on our website at https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 415-968-6515.

As a PMHNP-BC who specializes in autism, complex cases, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, schizophrenia/psychosis disorders, and substance use, I've built my practice around understanding that every person's mental health journey is unique—especially when multiple conditions interact or when traditional approaches haven't worked.

I also provide comprehensive treatment for depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar disorder, always with an understanding that these conditions often overlap and influence each other in complex ways. What I want you to know is this: your experiences are valid, your struggles make sense in the context of your life, and there's no such thing as being "too much" for treatment.

Whether you're masking autistic traits, battling compulsive behaviors, managing intense emotions, processing trauma, questioning reality, or struggling with substances, I meet you exactly where you are without trying to force you into a predetermined mold. My approach combines evidence-based treatments with deep respect for your individual needs and experiences.

You deserve a provider who doesn't see complexity as a problem to solve, but as a roadmap to understanding how to best support your unique path to wellness.

Something about this moment — whether you're exhausted from anxiety that won't quit, burned out from giving everything to everyone else, or standing at a crossroads you didn't ask for — brought you here. I want you to know: reaching out is the hard part, and you've already done it. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California, and I work with adults navigating anxiety, burnout, and life transitions — including women managing the particular weight of new motherhood, shifting identity, or carrying experiences that haven't had room to breathe yet. My clinical background includes high-acuity settings, which means I've learned to show up calm and focused when things feel anything but. I accept Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Cigna, Carelon, and several other major insurance plans, and I offer virtual sessions that fit around your real life. I'm not here to hand you a worksheet and call it a day. I'm here to actually help you move.

It's not easy starting therapy and investing time in yourself, but you've already done the first step! My experience has primarily been focused in clients with eating disorders and co-occurring diagnoses. With that said, I also have extensive experience working with relationship challenges, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidality. I generally like to pull from my knowledge of various therapy modalities such as DBT, CBT, FBT and EFFT. I also really enjoy self-compassion work. Your goals are always my top priority, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

Outside of work, I enjoy live music, spending time with friends, and hanging out with my dogs, Nala and Toni. These personal interests help me stay grounded and bring balance to my life, which I believe is crucial for overall well-being.

If you're ready to take the next step, I'm here to help you navigate your journey towards healing and growth. Let's work together to achieve your goals!

Click on my website to get your insurance benefits verified and schedule directly with me!

Hello! My name is Janette Ruano. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Los Angeles County, California. I provide Telehealth services for children, adolescents, and adults throughout the state of California. I specialize in depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma.