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“Change is inevitable, growth is optional.”
― John C. Maxwell
The longing for a better life and a better version of ourselves is a common thought. However, the fear of change, the uncertainty of what lies ahead, and the potential to revisit past hurts can be scary.
It may feel like you have just been getting by, barely surviving. We believe deep down that you believe life can be different... and better.
Imagine feeling joy, sharing a laugh, taking a deep breath, and experiencing true peace. It is possible— we know this because we too have been on our own journeys of healing and growth.
A little about Iliana...
Iliana Tintos, LPC
Welcome, I am Iliana, the founder of STT. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arizona and have been licensed and actively practicing since 2008.
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As an Arizona native, born and raised in Southern Arizona, I have found the Phoenix area as a great balance for my love of big cities, hot weather, and small town feels.
I have had the pleasure of calling Scottsdale home for almost 15 years, and remained in the Phoenix area since 2001 when I started my undergraduate work at Arizona State University.
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Throughout my career I have had the opportunity to practice as an individual, group, and family therapist for various inpatient and outpatient settings. Over the last decade and a half I have overseen therapeutic group homes and helped at-risk youth and their families; I also worked with the Department of Child Services, Family Court, AZ Juvenile Probation and moved into the private practice realm in 2018.
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I am a wife and mother to a beautiful and amazing little boy, a daughter, and a sister…
I also am an aunt to about 15 wonderful little ones! I believe that my life experiences and personal relationships are an important component and inspiration to my daily work. I enjoy being outdoors and spending time with family and friends.
Education
Arizona State University
2004
Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies & Social Inquiry
University of Phoenix
2008
Master of Science in Community Counseling
AZBBHE Licensure, No. LPC-17300
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Training
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Trained in Cognitive Behavorial Therapy (CBT)
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Certified in Trauma-Focused - Cognitively Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
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Trained in Narrative Therapy Techniques
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Trained in Grief & Loss Treatment Certification
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Trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT),
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Trained in Mindfulness.
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Trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy
American Counseling Association Member since 2008
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Association for Child and Adolescent Counseling Member
It was my desire when I started this practice to create a beautiful, comfortable, and most importantly a safe space to help empower my clients to find and build on their strengths and collaboratively attain their desired goals. My hope is to work together to break through the obstacles that at times seem to pull us down.
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I specialize in family therapy and couple conflict, as well as individual therapy for depression/anxiety, boundaries, life transitions, trauma and mood instability.
Some areas of focus are:
o LGBTQ+ Counseling
o Racial Trauma
o Healing/Grief
o Couple's Counseling
o Adolescent Adjustment
o Boundaries & Healthy Relationships
o ADHD
o Premarital Counseling
o Sexual Problematic Behaviors
o Sexual Abuse
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Email Iliana
My approach focuses on positivity and accessing strengths. I utilize a variety of modalities to create a tailored experience for each client, combining systemic methods with diverse therapeutic strategies, including Mindfulness, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Meet Daniela...
Daniela Ruiz, LAC
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor in the state of Arizona, earning my Master of Counseling degree from the Arizona State University and have a variety of experience working with school, home and clinical settings with both individuals and families for over 20 years.
I was born and raised in Nogales, Arizona, a border culture community that is joined with its sister city, Nogales, Sonora, in Mexico. Growing up with my grandfather who warmly referred to me as Dr. Daniela… family is at the core of who I am. I am a wife and mother to two spirited daughters.
“Nourishing yourself in a way that helps you blossom in the direction you want to go is
attainable, and you are worth the effort.” ~Deborah Day
This quote I hold near and dear to my heart, as well as one I find myself living and standing by, both in and out of the therapy room. My desire is to help others see their true worth, prioritizing their mental health to nourish their mind, body and soul needed to blossom.
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I am a proud Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) and I believe it is reflected in the rapport I am able to build with my clients, providing them a safe and authentic environment. I would describe my approach to therapy as strength-based and collaborative, taking tools from several different models, in order to cater to the person in front of me and meet you where you are. Although I may be considered the expert in the room, you are the expert of your life. Therefore, I act as a guide to assist you in areas of your life where you’re struggling, shed light on your strengths and empower you to live life as your most authentic self.
I also am uniquely suited to bridge the communication gap and foster a positive home-school connection when working with children. I understand that parents are the most influential person in a child’s life, I work collaboratively with parents that are grounded in Strength-Based philosophy.
My specialities include:
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o Adults with Childhood Emotional Neglect (CEN)
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o Child Therapy (ages 5 and up)
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o Depression
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o Grief
(including break-ups, bereavement and family grief)
o HSPs (Highly Sensitive People)
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o Latinx communities (therapy in Spanish)
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o Life transitions, including teen identity
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o Low self-esteem, self identity issues
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o Anxiety
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Education
University of Arizona
2001
Bachelors of Arts in Social Sciences with a minor in Psychology
Arizona State University
2004
Master's in Counseling
AZBBHE Licensure, No. LAC-21183
Youth Mental Health Specialist (CYMHS) Certification 2022
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Training
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Youth Advocate
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Scholarship Assistance
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Motivational Interviewing
The National Board for Certified Counselors
Member since 2008
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Arizona School Counselor
Association Member
Daniela is also a current participant and founding member of the Empezando Contigo: Association for Latine Therapists, a professional association centering the needs of Latine mental health professionals.
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