Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in New Mexico

With an academic background in women’s studies, psychology and family systemic processes, I am able to provide deep insight into how individuals, children, couples, families, and young adults navigate all relationships and societal expectations. This allows clients to succeed in self-discovery and grow into better functioning, creating more harmony within life's roles.

I specialize in working with clients experiencing anxiety. depression, trauma, and disconnect in their relationships. I am a trauma focused clinician and work to meet clients where they are in their mental health journey.

A very warm hello! I’m so glad to meet you, and I look forward to teaching you fascinating techniques to help you accomplish your counseling goals. Psychology is my passion, and for 25 years, I’ve worked to learn the most effective therapies. I use the latest in Neuro Psycho therapy along with Cognitive Behavioral therapy, EMDR, and other therapies to help my Clients. As a ‘mature’ woman, I have plenty of real life experience to back up professional training, as such, I specialize in all areas of Women’s issues.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained—and nothing seems to be helping the way you hoped—you’re not alone. Many of my clients come to me feeling stuck, exhausted, or unsure of what they need next.

I work with children, teens, and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, mood changes, and life stressors, and who are ready for a thoughtful, personalized approach to care. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience in healthcare as both a Registered Nurse and Nurse Practitioner.

I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes mental health care should feel a lot more human and a lot less like being talked at for 15 minutes and handed a prescription. My background includes emergency, critical care, and procedural nursing, so I’m naturally curious about the whole picture—not just a diagnosis on a chart.

I especially enjoy working with women dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PMDD, burnout, and the emotional chaos that can come with perimenopause and other major life transitions. My approach is evidence-based, hormone-informed, collaborative, and very much “you stay in the driver’s seat.”

I’m not interested in throwing medications at symptoms and hoping something sticks. I want to understand what’s going on in your brain, your body, and your actual life so we can build a treatment plan that makes sense for you. Expect questions, education, honesty, a little humor when appropriate, and a provider who genuinely wants you to feel heard instead of dismissed.

Hi, I’m Michelle — a therapist who believes healing happens through connection, understanding, and a touch of humor along the way. I grew up in Rochester, New York, so you’ll notice a bit of that East Coast directness in my style — I say what I mean, and I care deeply about helping you get to the heart of what’s really going on.

I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Western New Mexico University, where I discovered my passion for helping people heal and grow through life’s toughest challenges. I love working with individuals who have faced trauma, live with chronic health problems, or struggle with anger and other overwhelming emotions.

My own path to becoming a therapist began with my personal experience living with chronic health issues — so when I offer empathy, it’s not just professional, it’s personal. I’m an engaged, hands-on therapist who takes you and your situation seriously. Together, we’ll unpack what’s hard, find practical ways to cope, and reconnect you with your strength, balance, and a sense of calm.

Sometimes life is hard...and sometimes, the word “hard” doesn't begin to cover it.

You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, lost, or simply tired of feeling the way you do. Maybe you know that experiences from your past are still affecting you today, or you find yourself repeating patterns you understand but can't seem to change. Other times, you may not know exactly what's wrong...you just know that something isn't working anymore.

Over the years, I've helped adults heal unresolved wounds from childhood, develop greater self-awareness and self-esteem, improve relationships, and make life-enhancing changes that allow them to feel more connected to themselves and the lives they want to live. I work with people navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and the everyday challenges that can leave us feeling overwhelmed.

I believe we all have the ability to grow and make meaningful changes in our lives. Sometimes we just need some help finding our strengths and figuring out what we need now.

Each of us has our own unique story and experiences. It's a privilege when someone chooses to share their story with me, and I'll meet you wherever you are in yours.

**Please note: I may have availability beyond what is currently shown on my calendar. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly to schedule a consultation call: [email protected] :)

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.