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Mary Ruhland, LISW, CSW-PIP

Compassionate Iowa social worker with 30 years experience
  • Trauma and grief
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Relationship and communication

About Mary Ruhland

Mary Ruhland is a licensed social worker in Iowa with 30 years of clinical experience supporting people through difficult emotional challenges. She works with individuals facing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and self-esteem struggles, and brings particular focus to those dealing with social isolation, relationship strain, and major life transitions. Her practice emphasizes compassionate, individualized care that meets each person where they are.

Ruhland helps clients build self-compassion, improve communication, clarify life purpose, and process painful past experiences so they can move toward healing and resilience. She addresses a wide range of concerns, including panic attacks, body image issues, midlife shifts, and intimacy-related problems, tailoring interventions to the needs and goals of each client.

Mary holds the credentials LISW and CSW-PIP; the LISW is a license that permits independent social work practice, and the CSW-PIP is a clinical social work credential. She fosters a collaborative therapeutic relationship, aiming to empower clients to rediscover inner strength and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives. Her approach is supportive, grounded in practical strategies, and attuned to the whole person.

Areas of Expertise

Also Specializes In

AddictionsIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersAnger managementCompassion fatigue

Additional Focus Areas

AbandonmentAttachment issuesBody imageCommunication problemsControl issuesDivorce and separationForgivenessGuilt and shameImpulsivityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMidlife crisisMood disordersPanic disorder and panic attacksPost-traumatic stressSelf-loveSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issues

Therapeutic Approach

Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) Gottman Method Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy Internal Family Systems

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Mary Ruhland have?

Mary Ruhland has 30 years of experience.

Is Mary Ruhland a licensed therapist?

Yes. Mary Ruhland holds the credentials LISW and CSW-PIP. Her license details are IA LISW 01284 and SD CSW-PIP 3229.

In which languages does Mary Ruhland provide therapy?

Mary Ruhland provides therapy in English.

Where is Mary Ruhland located?

Mary Ruhland is located in Iowa.

How can I work with Mary Ruhland as my therapist?

You can work with Mary Ruhland through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Mary Ruhland work with international clients?

Mary Ruhland does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Mary Ruhland cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Support



Mary Ruhland draws from client-centered therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to guide her online work. Client-centered therapy focuses on empathic listening and creating a nonjudgmental space where clients can explore feelings, values, and goals; it is helpful for building self-compassion, improving communication, and navigating life transitions. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) emphasizes identifying unhelpful thought patterns and developing practical coping skills to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and panic; it is well suited for clients seeking structured strategies to manage distress.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Mary collaborates with each person to determine what methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences. She adapts techniques over time so therapy remains responsive and effective for the individual.

Online therapy with Mary is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to provide flexibility and accessibility. These options allow clients to schedule sessions around work and family life, maintain continuity during transitions, and choose the communication style that feels most comfortable, while continuing to work with licensed professionals who tailor treatment to each person.

Ready to start therapy with Mary Ruhland?

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