Complex Trauma Therapy in Michigan & Maryland
Complex trauma therapy provides a steady, relational process to rebuild safety, integrate experiences, and move from survival to wholeness.Complex trauma therapy provides a steady, relational process to rebuild safety, integrate experiences, and move from survival to wholeness.
Trauma isn’t just what happened — it’s how it continues to live in the body, mind, and relationships.
Grounded, collaborative care that moves at the pace of safety.
About Ruth
Ruth Koelling
Therapist & Consultant in Michigan & Maryland
I have 35 years of experience providing individual and couples therapy. As an AASECT certified Sex Therapist, I operate from a bio-psycho-social-spiritual perspective, believing that sexuality is at the core of the human experience. I welcome all the ways people express themselves as a sexual person.
My practice is founded on a commitment to equality, dignity, and freedom for all people, including those of various races, cultures, and sexual identities. My primary goal is to provide a physically and emotionally safe place for people of all diversities to work on their most intimate concerns.
Education & Qualifications
The Catholic University of America, MSW (Masters of Social Work), University of Michigan Sexual Health and Sex Therapy Certificate Program
Professional Credentials
LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker), CST-S (AASECT Certified Sex Therapist - Supervisor)
Areas of Specialty
AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and specialist in Complex Trauma, Divorce Counseling, and Professional Supervision.
Client Demographics
Teen , Adults , Elders (65+)
Therapeutic Approaches
Bio-Psycho-Social-Spiritual, Attachment-Based, Neurobiological, Complex Trauma-Informed, Relational, Couples-Focused
Professional organizations: Society for Sex Therapy and Research (SSTAR), EMDRIA, American Association for Sex Counseling, Education and Therapy (AASECT), Professional Book Review Committee for SSTAR: (2018-present)
EMDRIA Certified
Years of Experience
Dedicated to helping clients overcome challenges and achieve emotional well-being
Hours Completed
Every session is rooted in care, empathy, and expertise, ensuring a safe space for growth and transformation
Reflections from My Practice
Insights on therapy, relationships, and the lifelong work of healing and growth, drawn from my experience with individuals, couples, and groups in Ann Arbor, MI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rigorous Training Requirements: To become AASECT certified, therapists must complete 90+ hours of specialized sex therapy education, covering topics like sexual anatomy, physiology, sexual dysfunctions, trauma-informed care, LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, and ethical practice. This is in addition to their graduate-level mental health training. I also hold the CST-S (Certified Sex Therapist - Supervisor) designation, meaning I've met even higher standards and am qualified to train and supervise other therapists pursuing certification.
Supervised Clinical Experience: AASECT requires therapists to complete hundreds of hours of supervised clinical work specifically focused on sexual health concerns, ensuring competency before certification. This means certified sex therapists have demonstrated expertise through real-world practice, not just coursework.
Ethical Standards & Continuing Education: AASECT-certified therapists must adhere to strict ethical guidelines and complete ongoing continuing education to maintain certification. This ensures we stay current with the latest research, treatment modalities, and best practices in sexual health.
Key Distinctions: Unlike therapists who may offer sex therapy without certification, AASECT-certified therapists have proven competency through standardized training, supervision, and ethical oversight. We understand the complex intersection of physical, psychological, relational, and cultural factors that influence sexual health. This specialized expertise is especially critical when addressing concerns like sexual trauma, desire discrepancies, pelvic pain, gender identity, and complex relational dynamics.
With 35 years of experience and AASECT certification, I bring both depth of training and extensive clinical wisdom to every session, ensuring you receive evidence-based, ethically sound, and culturally competent care.
Key agreements and information discussed during the visit include:
Therapist Fit: If you and the Therapist agree that the Therapist is not right for you, the Therapist will refer you to another Therapist.
Schedule and Time: You and the Therapist should agree on a regular day and time for your appointment. The usual schedule is once a week, but you may decide to meet every other week. Sessions are typically 45 or 50 minutes.
Fees: The Therapist will inform you of the counseling fee. Fees vary based on geographical area, the Therapist's qualifications, and the setting.
Our Office
Ruth Koelling
LMSW
CST
202 East Washington Street
Suite 204
Ann Arbor
MI 48104
Office Hours
Monday–Friday (Hours vary each day)
Contact
Get In Touch
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