Ruth Kleast, LCSW

Why Ruth does this work: I became a mental health clinician because I have an insatiable curiosity about life and a determination to reduce suffering in the world. I began my career 16 years ago, working with people who were survivors of torture and war-time atrocities. From the start, it has always been important for me to see the person for who they are, and as more than just the trauma or bad experiences that happened to them. I’ve since worked with people from all walks of life and I’m willing to face anything you bring into therapy. There is nothing too big or too small. Later in my career, I learned about EMDR therapy and found it to be the most comprehensive and safe approach addressing all parts of the problem, including your nervous system, your thoughts, memories, emotions, and day to day experiences. It’s very flexible, so that if you want a gentle approach versus a more direct approach to your problems, it can be tailored either way. Also, while EMDR addresses the most serious of life’s issues and traumas, it also can be fun at times! Since doing EMDR therapy, I have found that both myself and my clients come away feeling fascinated with how deep the changes are that take place. What I love most about EMDR, is that it’s based on our own inherent ability to heal and isn’t a magic wand that I, as the therapist, waves over you. This leaves you feeling both courageous and at ease in yourself, feeling like you can overcome and face what life may bring.

What Ruth feels is the best part of her job: The best part of being a therapist is sharing in a good laugh and a mutual acknowledgement that life sure can be tough! I love that we get to share in your triumphs and setbacks, together, and create that feeling of knowing that you’re not in it alone.

How Ruth spends her free time: I enjoy playing competitive sports, gardening, being charmed by my hilarious cat Wild Bill, and eating chocolate every day, without fail.

Ruth’s favorite quote:  “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.” ~Maya Angelou.

Ruth’s therapy services location: Hybrid. Offering both in-person sessions in our Berkeley offices and remote telehealth sessions for clients all over California.

Ruth’s top trauma recovery resources: 

• The Body Keeps Score by Bessel Vander Kolk, MD
• Letters to My Daughter by Maya Angelou
• “The Invitation” by Oriah Mountain Dreamer
• Tara Brach for advice about self-compassion (recorded talks, articles, and guided meditations)

Ruth’s contact information:

• Email: Ruth@evergreencounseling.com
• Phone: 510-214-2384

Ruth Kleast’s Credentials:

Ruth’s license(s): Licensed Clinical Social Worker #28504

Ruth’s advanced trainings and affiliations:

• EMDR Level 1 and Level 2 EMDR Institute

Available For Therapy in Berkeley or via Online Counseling

Ruth Kleast and Evergreen Counseling service downtown Berkeley offices, as well as online video counseling for residents of California.

We’re also near the campus of UC Berkeley and are available for students and faculty.