Ruba Rum, Doctoral Extern

I am glad to see that you’re on your journey to beginning (or returning to) therapy. Thank you for taking the time to explore my profile. I know that working with the right therapist is essential for a successful therapeutic journey, and I hope to provide you with a glimpse into my background and approach to help you determine if I would be a good fit for you.

I specialize in working with people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, phobias, and other mental health concerns. I have also supported clients struggling with relationship difficulties, self-esteem and identity concerns, major life transitions, communication challenges, and managing intense emotions. In working with all clients, my main priority is to provide a safe environment to explore, process, and progress towards acceptance, healing, and personal growth.

My therapeutic style is warm, transparent, interactive, and non-judgmental. I help clients work through painful life experiences, effectively manage thoughts and emotions, and improve daily patterns that can help them better connect with themselves and others. My goal as a therapist is to not only reduce clients’ distress but also to help them lead the fulfilling lives they have always envisioned. I meet my clients with great empathy and understanding to help them cultivate self-compassion and recognize their unique strengths and capabilities. In doing so, I hope to empower clients on their journey to positive transformation.

My approach is guided by evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), emotion-focused therapy (EFT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). I strive to tailor my approach to suit the specific needs, goals, and values of each individual client. I strongly believe therapy is a collaborative journey where clients’ input and feedback are core parts of the therapeutic process. My clients are encouraged to embrace their potential and navigate their path towards empowerment and meaningful change. Together, we will identify how therapy can best address your current concerns and achieve your treatment goals. I hope to guide you through the process of self-discovery to help improve your overall wellbeing and increase your confidence in handling future obstacles. 

I am providing services as a doctoral extern under the supervision of Dr. Kelsi Clayson. I am currently a 4^th year doctoral student studying clinical psychology at the University of South Florida (USF). I received my Master of Science (M.S.), Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees from USF. Over the course of my clinical training, I have completed practicum experiences at Rogers Behavioral Health Center and the USF Psychological Services Center. I am a member of the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, Society for Personality and Social Psychology, and the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. In addition to my clinical work, I am actively involved in research and have published my work in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national conferences. I also co-chair the Psychology Diversity Committee at USF and am committed to understanding and valuing the unique identities, backgrounds, and cultural perspectives of all my clients.