Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in New Orleans, LA

With over thirteen years of experience in the field, I bring a depth of knowledge and a steady, grounded presence to every session. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S), a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and one of only eight Certified DBT Specialists (C-DBT) in the state of Louisiana. I received my DBT training at a VA hospital, where I had the privilege of working closely with veterans and developing a strong foundation in trauma-informed care.

Throughout my career, I have worked across all levels of care, from crisis settings to outpatient therapy, and that range has made me a confident, compassionate guide for clients navigating emotionally intense situations. I am also a Certified Trauma Specialist, and my work spans adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing challenges like trauma and PTSD, borderline personality disorder, mood disorders, addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. I believe deeply that recovery is possible and that renewed hope is always within reach.

I have been practicing social work for 15 years with the last 3 in the field of counseling/therapy. I attended Southern University and A&M College and Tulane University's School of Social Work where I received my Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science in Social Work degrees respectively. I have worked in what is considered the trenches, community health, and now healthcare. Helping you reach your goal is my passion.

I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist who works with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, grief, and life transitions. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and exposure-based interventions, while also incorporating practical, real-world strategies that clients can apply outside of session.

I strive to create a space where clients feel both supported and challenged. I believe meaningful growth happens when clients are not only heard, but also guided toward understanding their patterns, building insight, and taking intentional steps toward change. I am intentional about helping clients stay engaged in the therapeutic process, using structured interventions and clear direction so sessions feel purposeful and effective.

My work often focuses on helping clients confront avoidance, process difficult experiences, and rebuild a sense of control and confidence in their lives. I value helping clients translate what they learn in therapy into action, whether that’s through exposure work , skill-building, or developing healthier ways of thinking and responding.

Above all, I aim to empower my clients to help them move from feeling stuck or overwhelmed to feeling capable, resilient, and aligned with the life they want to live.

Welcome -as a licensed clinical social worker, I believe prioritizing mental health is the key to success and happiness. Congratulations in taking the first step to a happier and fulfilled life. I've been practicing for 26 years working with all populations.

Create and live the meaning of your life, whether by improving relationships, thriving within your career, enduring struggle, or saying goodbye. We can help you overcome limiting beliefs or patterns. We can help you embrace new perspectives and solve the problems that need solving. We can help you transcend any setbacks you have experienced, and determine how you can best serve others. Therapy does not have to be rigid; humor is encouraged. We can have fun while applying the best techniques psychology has produced.

Welcome to your new way of managing life with A.Y.O. Conversations, PLLC (Are You Okay). Often times we feel helpless and hopeless and need a safe partner to find our way through it all. I am Sharonda Ruffin MSW, LCSW.