Rusti Garcia, MS, LPC Associate

Hello, my name is Rusti Garcia. I am in my final semesters as a graduate student at Walden University. My internship supervisor is Shawna Munson, M.A., LPC-S, LMFT-S.

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Prior to seeking a career in the Mental Health field, I worked as a Bereavement Coordinator for a hospice company. This experience opened my eyes to the need for mental health professionals and my heart to care for people’s mental health. While working there, I followed this passion, went back to school, and obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Walden University in 2021. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I continued into the Master’s in Mental Health Counseling program, where I have reached the internship level. I will complete my degree program in May 2023 and become a Licensed Professional Counselor.

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In addition to Serenity House, I work at The Burke Mental Health Clinic in Livingston as a Mental Health Clinician. I am passionate about working with people diagnosed with mental illnesses and disorders, people experiencing grief, suffering from addiction or a substance use disorder, and challenging life events. I believe the best therapeutic results come from a genuine client-therapist working relationship based on empathy and transparency in a non-judgmental, safe environment. My philosophy is that you know you best; my job is to walk beside you on your journey to self-development, healing, and growth.

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In my spare time, I enjoy being with my family, gardening, and volunteering at House of Mary. I look forward to celebrating your personal victories with you.

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“We cannot teach people anything; we can only help them discover it within themselves.”  -Galileo Galilei