Hi, I am Dr. Jim Ruffing, a licensed clinical pscyhologist in South Carolina. I started my career with my undergraduate work in psychology which then morphed into rather intense and excellect schooling and training at the School of Professional Psychology, Wright State University, in Dayton, Ohio. As part of that rather eclectic and intense work, I completed untold hours of hands on work with people at counseling centers and inpatient hospitals. I also completed a one year internship at the University of South Florida in Tampa. This work encompassed psychological testing and counseling with students and work at the local VA, a juvenile delinquent program and with Dr.Ted Blau, a world renowned forensic pscyhologist. I had wonderful teachers and mentors at USF and the associated programs. My life and professional efforts changed when I progressed to a residency in Greenville, South Carolina at the Greenville hospital with specific training in Behavioral Medicine. I worked closely with Dr. Frank Andrasik, a leading researcher in the field of headaches. After the residency I took a full-time position with MaryBlack hospital in Spartanburg, SC with the title of Director of Psychological Services. The work was rather varied and interesting as you can imagine work in a general hospital might be. During my four years there I began to build a private practice which I have remained in since 1991. I work with many different people, needs and interests. Part of my work is forensic in that I provide consultation with law enforcement agencies, the courts and attorneys as well as workers compesation for those suffering the chronic and debilitating psychological effects of personal inury. I enjoy utilizing clinical hypnosis when it is indicated as I started my training in hypnosis with the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis almost 38 years ago. In my experience, psychological work is two way street that requires mutual respect, effort and of course some direction and inspiration from the years of training and experience the therapist has. I have learned you can choose to be a victim, a survivor or a thriver as you navigate all life has to throw at you and the more you thrive, the more you can be successful in achieving what you desire.
Additional areas of focus: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Family conflicts, Grief, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Coping with life changes, ADHD
SC Psychologist 421