Family therapy and counseling in Reno, NV

Two decades of clinical excellence.

Dr. Cindy Ruelas-Tafolla's path to becoming a clinician began at age 13 with the sudden loss of her father — an experience that planted the seed of her life's purpose: to be the kind of support she needed during her own darkest moments.

She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society from UC Santa Barbara, her Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, and her Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from USC.

Over two decades, she has served as a Medical Social Worker, Case Manager, and Behavioral Health Therapist — bringing doctoral-level depth, board-certified credentials, and genuine compassion to every client she works with.

I believe healing begins in a space where you feel safe and understood. My approach is compassionate and grounded in strong clinical experience, guided by genuine care and respect for each person’s story. I bring a calm, steady presence to every session and see therapy as a collaborative process, one that helps you build awareness, strength, and lasting change.

With 17 years of experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples, children, adolescents and children to help navigate life's transitions, stressors, and relational challenges.

I'm Russ! As your therapist, it is my goal to see you become a better version of yourself. Asking for help is not easy for many, and you're to be commended for taking that first step. Life's challenges can be difficult to navigate, and everyone needs some help from time to time. I have seen a multitude of clients of all ages with diverse backgrounds. Being a good listener and having a non-judgmental approach are two of the things people ask for most in a therapist. With me, you will get both of those things! I am always present when my clients are experiencing stressful life challenges. My areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Men's Health, Trauma, PTSD, Grief Issues, and Couples Therapy, I am specifically very experienced and specialized with Anxiety Disorders. I use a Cognitive Behavioral and Humanistic approach to help my clients bring out the best in themselves, but am also able to help those who may need to be in therapy more short-term with Solution-Focused therapeutic approaches. I like to use humor, challenging questions, and a direct approach. I think that growth and progress come from addressing the difficult issues head-on, but we can also make therapy a little more fun along the way.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who supports individuals and families navigating stress, emotional regulation, and life transitions. I provide a warm, supportive space while helping clients build practical tools to feel more confident and in control of their lives. My goal is to help clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to create meaningful change.

Willie A. Stewart, LCSW, LCADC, CDVC, is a veteran of Operation Desert Storm whose commitment to service first emerged in the Marine Corps. Following honorable discharge, he earned a BSW and MSW from UNLV and achieved licensure as a Clinical Social Worker and Alcohol & Drug Counselor, as well as certification in Domestic Violence Counseling. Driven by continual professional growth and community dedication, Mr. Stewart founded W.A.S. Therapy and Wellness—anchored by the principle of “Willingly Achieve Success”—to provide trauma-informed, solution-focused care. His extensive clinical experience spans social work, mental health, family, relationship, military veterans, addiction treatment, and domestic violence intervention, equipping him to guide clients toward sustainable wellness.

I have been a SW for 29 years. I received my bachelors of social work from Southern University and A&M College and my masters of social work from Southern at New Orleans. As a SW, at DCFS/CW, I have served as in Investigations, Foster Care, Family Service, Adoption, and as a Child Welfare Supervisor, CW Trainer, and a CW Manager. PRN work included working in MH/SA, hospitals, hospice and school SW. I am a TBRI Pract. & adoption competent. I help people who seek help! I retired from DCFS on 01/21/2026. Please see link below on the impact I’ve made on people across the state and allow me to help you too. Please message me for an appointment. Thank you.

https://youtu.be/XQ9RdZwCRW8

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over ten years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive space for individuals, couples, and families. I approach each client with curiosity and a person-centered focus. With more than forty years of experience as a mental health professional, I bring both depth and perspective to my work!

I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive space for individuals to explore and navigate their person challenges. With a combination of formal education and lived life experiences, I bring a unique perspective to my practice that allows me to connect with my clients on a deeper level!