Ruma Podder

Changing your mind, changes everything. I believe that we all have the ability to learn, grow, and be victorious through challenges and adversity. We become who we are through the struggles we encounter.

I was born in India, and immigrated to Los Angeles with my family when I was four years old. I struggled the majority of my childhood to “fit in” only to later learn that it’s more important to be ourselves than to stand out.

I learned how to manage my emotions and communicate with others through the help and support of therapists. Since I was a teenager I always knew that someday I would try to help others in ways that I had been helped.

I graduated from UC Davis with a BA in sociology and began my career as a teacher. I taught all grades from preschool to high school and learned so much from each of my students. After teaching for years, I returned to school and obtained my Masters of Science degree in Marital and Family Therapy from Cal State University at Dominguez Hills.

My work continued with at-risk youth and families in impoverished neighborhoods throughout LA and Long Beach. I’ve spent the past several years in a group practice working with adults and families .

I am grateful to be helping others in the South Bay where my roots are and my heart will always be.