About Me

Nichole Ruiz

I grew up moving between a small town in Oklahoma and the bustle of Los Angeles—two worlds that couldn’t be more different. That contrast shaped the way I see people, culture, and humanity. It taught me that everyone’s story matters, and that no two paths to healing or selfhood look the same.I found my passion for working with women back in 2005, starting my career supporting survivors of violent crime. Since then, I’ve walked alongside families in the child welfare system, women navigating diversion programs, and folks in inpatient psychiatric hospitals. Each experience deepened my belief that healing is possible, even in the hardest moments.

In 2012, I became a mother—and everything changed. Motherhood cracked me wide open. It confirmed what I already knew deep down: I wanted to work with mamas. The pressure, the fear, the silent weight we carry as mothers? It deserves space, and I’m not afraid to name it out loud.

In 2016, I opened my first private practice in Oklahoma City’s Plaza District at the Thrive Mama Collective. I’ve since had the honor of walking with women, queer folks, mamas, and people of all genders as they explore the gritty, courageous work of becoming their truest selves.As of 2024, I’m a Certified Sex Therapist, and my work continues to center the importance of sexuality, identity, and wholeness. Being rooted in your body, your truth, and your desire is powerful—and sacred. I believe in helping people find their way back to themselves, without shame.

My own therapy journey began in 2016, and it lit a fire in me. Doing my own work deepened my commitment to my clients and reaffirmed this truth: I would never ask you to go somewhere I haven’t gone myself.

I’ve made Tulsa my home, and I’m grateful to be part of this community. I laugh a lot—truly, it’s my favorite thing. I read obsessively, travel often, and find joy in the messy, beautiful, totally human parts of life.

Credentials

LCSW

I am a Licenced Clinical Social Worker providing, mental health evaluation, emotional support, and therapy to those experiencing psychological, emotional, medical, social, family and/or life challenges. Having received my licence in 2016, I have worked with women, mamas, and members of the LGBTQIA.

PMH-c

I have additional training and certification in treating women and mothers throughout their journey to becoming a mother. I love working with women and creating a space to hold the complexities of those emotions. I am trained to support perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression, the most common complication of childbirth.

EDMR Trained

I am currently completing my Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) certification. This therapy allows the brain to resume its natural healing process and resolve unprocessed traumatic memories in the brain. A proven method to help recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences, including; PTSD, anxiety, depression, and panic disorders.

Gottman Training

I have completed the Level 1 research-based couples treatment training from The Gottman Institute. This treatment style is based on the extensive work of Dr Julie Gottman who has studied and applied this treatment to over 3000 couples. The training course gives participants a thorough understanding of the dynamics of relationships, how and why they go wrong and how to get back on track in a healthy, sustainable way. Using the Sound Relationship House Theory as a guide, I have learned how to help couples manage their conflicts, deepen their connection and share their history, purpose and dreams with a roadmap based on sound research and analysis.

Sanamore Values

authenticity

Authenticity is the cornerstone of my practice. How can I expect you to be your authentic self if I don’t embody that myself? To stay true to who I am, I honor my values, spirit, and personality, regardless of external pressures. I am honest with myself and my clients, and I embrace who I truly am. Authenticity is essential to my work because it allows me to trust myself—and in doing so, I create a space where you can learn to trust yourself, too.

openness

I am curious and open to pursuing new adventures, experiences, and creative endeavors. Being open-minded allows me to explore new ideas without judgment and continuously learn from others.

acceptance

I accept who you are and what you stand for. You have the right to be your own unique person, with your own feelings, thoughts, and opinions—and I honor and respect that.

compassion

Compassion is a powerful tool that connects people to the values they hold. I focus on taking the compassion and empathy I feel for my clients and creating a space where they can be their truest selves, both during our time together and beyond. I will hold space for you, allowing you the time you need to thrive.4o mini

connection

Having a connection where you feel valued, seen, and heard without judgment is very important to me. I want you to leave therapy feeling stronger, enriched, and nourished, with a greater sense of well-being.

Ready To Change Your Life?

The journey through pain and discomfort is hard, the reward is beautiful to watch. We will stand with you, hold space for you, and celebrate your wins.