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Our Team

Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Coping with Medical Conditions, Geriatric Psychology and Aging, Dementia Care, Caregiver Support, Capacity for Medical Decision Making, Addiction, Substance Abuse and Dual Diagnosis, Stress Management, Panic Disorder, ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), Self-Esteem issues, Success Under Pressure

Mark Ruiz, PhD

Psychologist and Clinical Director

Dr. Mark Ruiz earned his PhD and Masters degrees in Clinical Psychology from the University of Notre Dame. He completed a Post Doctoral Fellowship with the US Veterans Health Administration National Center for Organizational Development.

Dr. Ruiz is skilled in individual and family interventions, consultative coaching, and therapeutic strategies including cognitive behavioral assessment and solution focused therapies. He has been in practice for over twenty years, working as a Chief with Behavioral Health Consultants in Austin, TX, and was in private practice with Ron Yarbrough, PhD in Pensacola from 2019 until opening Live Oak Minds in Gulf Breeze in 2026

• Social anxiety • Isolation and loneliness • Communication challenges • Feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns • Addiction-related challenges • Guilt and shame • Difficulty with coping skills • Struggles with relationships and connection • Life transitions and adjustment issues • Emotional challenges related to military service • Veterans seeking support with transition, identity, and stress

Shaneiria Crews, LCSW

Therapist

Shaneiria Crews is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over four years of experience helping individuals navigate emotional and life challenges. She earned her Bachelor’s in Social Work from Auburn University and her Master’s from the University of Alabama.

She works with clients experiencing social anxiety, communication difficulties, life transitions, and addiction-related challenges, and has experience supporting veterans.

Shaneiria’s approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices. She creates a supportive space where clients feel seen and empowered to build healthier coping skills and move toward more balanced, fulfilling lives.

- Childhood trauma - Emotional & Behavioral regulation - ADHD and Sensory Challenges - Neurodivergent Advocacy - ADOS Assessment - Family Therapy

Kristie Read, M.S., RMHCI

Pre-licensed Professional

With several years of experience in counseling and crisis support, Kristie Read is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern who works with at-risk youth and families using a trauma-informed approach.

She has provided individual, group, and family counseling in residential and community settings, helping clients build coping skills and strengthen relationships.

Her global background and work with diverse and military communities allow her to connect with clients in a culturally sensitive way. Kristie creates a supportive space where clients feel understood and empowered to move forward.

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