Ruth Hayes-Barba, LCSW

Ruth is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the State of Oregon. She holds a Master of Social Work from Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan (1993) and a Master of Theological Studies from the University of Dallas (2000). Before joining Northwest Family Services she worked as a clinician in community mental health and as a therapist in private practice. Since 2001 she has been an adjunct professor at Concordia University where she continues to teach in the School of Health Care Management.

Ruth believes that the counseling relationship offers a unique means for growth and healing that is fostered by accepting each client in their present phase of development. Her focus is on encouraging authentic identity development by awakening each person to an honest relationship to self, others and to the world. By emphasizing the client’s strengths and gifts in facing current issues, she helps clients strive for greater maturity. Her role in this process is to create a supportive environment where this important work can take place.

With a clinical focus on life-cycle issues, bereavement and trauma, Ruth offers therapy for individuals, couples and families. She is responsible for the faith-based pre-marriage program with Northwest Family Services.