Dr. Jessica J. Ruiz

Dr. Jessica J. Ruiz

Chief Psychologist and Director of Behavioral Health

Dr. Jessica Ruiz obtained her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University (NSU) where her training focused on motivational evidenced-based treatment of substance abuse and co-occurring disorders. She completed her internship, postdoctoral training and was a junior faculty member at Yale University’s Division of Substance Abuse where she obtained additional clinical experience with the treatment of serious mental illness and addictive behaviors.

She has worked as a Motivational Interviewing trainer, coach, supervisor and consultant at a variety of agencies including: Yale University School of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry, Connecticut Mental Health Center, The New York State Smoker’s Quitline, and NSU’s Area Health Education Centers (AHEC).

She is particularly interested in the prevention, assessment and treatment of addictive behaviors and the use of motivational strategies to help individuals meet their desired treatment goals. Her professional activities in this area earned her the American Psychological Association’s Society of Clinical Psychology (Division 12) Distinguished Student Practice Award in 2008.