Isabel Ruiz, BA, MCP, RCC

EMDR Therapist & Founder

I created Heart & Heritage Therapy with the belief that healing happens in connection—with ourselves, with our communities, and with the world around us. 

Isabel earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Simon Fraser University, concentrating in Applied Behaviour Analysis. She also completed minors in Learning and Developmental Disabilities and Counselling and Human Development, which provided a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Driven by a passion for furthering her expertise, Isabel pursued and obtained a Master's in Counselling Psychology (MCP) from Adler University since I have further my education becoming an EMDR therapist, EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) and TFT (Thought Field Therapy) certified practitioner and body oriented/somatic practitioner as well as IFS (Internal family systems) informed practitioner.

It is important for me  to  create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and understood, fostering an environment conducive to healing and personal growth. My commitment to ongoing professional development ensures that I remains at the forefront of advancements in the field of mental health

Isabel is bilingual and offers counseling services in both English and Spanish, making her services accessible to a broader range of clients and helping to meet the diverse needs of the community.

Outside of her professional life, Isabel enjoys hiking, swimming, walking under the rain, resting, reading, and spending quality time with her family, friends and pets. Her holistic approach to life and work underscores her belief in the importance of balance and self-care.


Meet the furry team 

Heart & Heritage Therapy was created with the belief that healing happens in connection—with ourselves, our communities, and the world around us. With this in mind, I also recognize the meaningful role our pets and environments can play in our healing journeys. The quiet comfort, playful energy, and resilience of our animal companions remind us of what it means to be present, to trust, and to grow through connection and love.

While sessions are fully online, my pets are often nearby, offering their own gentle lessons about healing. They are not official co-therapists, but they hold a special place in the spirit of Heart & Heritage Therapy.

Arkzel 

 Grounding Specialist

With a gentle lick or by softly purring while curled up on my lap, Arkzel brings warmth and grounding to the space. His calming presence is a reminder of how comfort and safety can support our nervous system and help us feel more at ease.

Arkzel reminds us that sometimes the deepest healing comes from simple moments of connection.

Fun fact his nickname is Cloud

Knox

Boundaries & Playfulness Guide

Knox is playful and loving, yet also a good reminder of the importance of honoring boundaries. He shows affection in his own way and on his own terms, teaching us that relationships flourish when we respect individuality and rhythms. 


Bella

Resilience & Healing Mentor

Bella, a 9-year-old Belgian Malinois, embodies resilience and adaptability.

Her life has brought many changes and challenges, and though trusting people has not always come easily, she continues to show up each day with an adventurous spirit and a spark of mischief. Bella reminds us that healing has no fixed timeline—that it unfolds slowly, through connection, patience, and love.