Mary Ruth Cross

<p>Mary Ruth Cross, a compassionate and empathetic Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, has dedicated over 30 years to the mental health field. As the Owner and CEO of Treehouse Family Counseling Services in San Ramon, CA, she and her staff provide counselling to children and families, with a special focus on play therapy. Mary Ruth's treatment team model, which supports the whole family, is a testament to her understanding of the importance of a holistic approach to healing. The practice harnesses the healing power of play to bring about healing for children, teens, couples, adults, and families, reflecting Mary Ruth's deep empathy and care for her clients.</p><br><p>Mary Ruth is a California State University, East Bay graduate and has served on the faculty at John F. Kennedy University and the University of Phoenix, teaching in counsellor education programs. Mary Ruth is a Registered Play Therapist, Supervisor™, and a sought-after workshop leader in the field of play therapy, suicide, grief and loss, high-conflict families and trauma, as well as other related mental health issues.</p><br><p>Mary Ruth is a member in good standing with several professional associations, including the Association for Play Therapy, the California Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, National Board-Certified Counselors, the American Psychological Association, and the Association for Death Education and Counseling. She co-facilitates a grief support group in Livermore, CA, and is also involved in the creation of educational resources. Mary Ruth is co-author of a children’s book on trauma called <i>“Snug and Rug and the 'No Good Very Bad Thing': A Story of Coping, Calming & Courage for Children”</i> and is co-author and co-editor of the book <i>Assessing and Treating Suicidal Thinking and Behaviors in Children and Adolescents: A Play Therapy Guide for Mental Health Practitioners.</i></p>