Steve Ruff

I am a child and play therapist, as well as a father of four. I have been practicing therapy for 20 years, and enjoy sharing insights, tips, and musings with others related to children and parenting. I think parenting is both the most rewarding, and most difficult job that we have, which makes it pretty darn interesting.

I am now offering Parenting Consultation by phone or Skype! Often as parents we get just a bit stuck. We end up repeating patterns with our children that end up in yelling, arguing, power struggles and confrontation. Parent consultation can help to identify these patterns, and lead to solutions that can help diffuse situations, lower tensions, and get you back to having an enjoyable relationship with your child. Parent consultation is based on the understanding that often what is needed is a simple adjustment in your approach, attitude or outlook, and is intended for situations where more intensive therapy may not be necessary. Parent consultation is not a one size fits all. I actively listen to your situation, and use my experience, both as a child and family therapist and as a parent, to help identify what is really causing you to feel stuck as a parent. A good but elusive question that we will try to answer is “what is your child needing?” Not wanting, needing. Once we feel we have some answers to that question, the solutions become more apparent, and will leave you feeling more confident in your ability to be the parent you want to be. Parenting consultation is educational and is not therapy. If I feel your situation will be best resolved through therapy I will make that recommendation. Parent consultation is convenient and can save on therapy costs, as well as a trip into the office and child care. Acceptable forms of payment include Visa and Mastercard, or payment in advance by check or money order. Sessions are one hour and cost is $100, or get a block of 5 sessions for $400, or a block of 10 for $700. Just call and leave a message, or email, and I will get back to you, typically within 24 hours. Steve Ruff, M.A., LMFT LLC 6607 18th Ave. S. Richfield, MN 55423 612-798-7373 x33 Steveruff529@aol.com