Dr. Ruby Torres, DSW, LCSW, EMDR-PT II, C-DBT, QS
CEO/Clinical Psychotherapist
Meet the Therapists
I'm Dr. Ruby Torres, the founder of Hope Psychotherapy. I am a committed Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in Florida and New York. Originally from the Bronx, New York, I moved to Florida in 2015. I hold a of Social Work from Fordham University and a Doctorate in Trauma-informed Care Practices from Barry University. I am certified in EMDR, which allows me to support individuals facing trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and depression. I have also completed training in Gottman Principles and am working towards licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist. My goal is to help you navigate life's complexities with compassion and expertise. I provide high-quality counseling, case management, and consulting services through Telehealth or in-person. With 24 years of experience in social work, I offer specialized services across various mental health modalities, including individual, group, couples, and family therapies, as well as case management and psycho-educational seminars. I take an eclectic and holistic approach, aiding clients in managing anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation while promoting coping skills through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Techniques. Additionally, I am certified in Adaptive Behavioral Therapy, focusing on identifying anxiety triggers and developing effective coping. I also provide clinical supervision to BSW, MSW, and RCSWI candidates pursuing social work licensure and offer business consulting services to help you launch and enhance your business, develop new programs, and implement effective marketing strategies.
I'm Jacqueline Gosley-McFarlane. I grew up in London, England, before moving to Queens, New York, as a teenager. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from New York State University at Stony Brook and relocated to Tampa, Florida, in 2004. My journey in welfare began in London as a Befriender at a substance misuse inpatient center in Stockwell, where I provided counseling to adults in various stages of recovery and guided them in accessing methadone and treatments. Over the years, I have dedicated myself to working with children and adults with intellectual disabilities in community residential settings, offering behavioral support while training family members in behavioral techniques for consistent care. During my graduate studies, I interned at Passages Counseling Center in New York, providing individual and group therapy and facilitating women's groups focused on substance abuse. Additionally, my internship at the Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Room at University Hospital at Stony Brook involved conducting assessments, coordinating services, and planning discharges for individuals of all ages with mental health challenges. I take great pride in my work, offering empathy and empowerment as I help recognize their challenges and leverage their strengths.
Jackie Gosley-McFarlane, LCSW
Clinical Psychotherapist
Millie Moreno, MSW
Registered Clinical Social Work Intern
My name is Millie Moreno, and my journey begins in the Bronx, New York, where I was raised in a community shaped by both hardship and resilience. Growing up in an environment where domestic violence, youth pregnancy, and substance use were common experiences among my peers, I became deeply aware of the challenges families face and the long‑lasting impact of trauma. Rather than becoming desensitized to these realities, I developed a strong desire to understand them. These early experiences sparked my passion for helping others discover their own capacity for healing, self‑efficacy, and resilience.
In 2006, when I relocated to Florida, the transition broadened my perspective and strengthened my commitment to pursuing a career in social work. I earned my bachelor’s degree in social work from Saint Leo University and completed a field placement with Family Partnerships, working with family law and dependency cases. I then pursued a master’s degree in social work from Walden University. My graduate studies allowed me to explore advanced therapeutic modalities, clinical assessment, and evidence‑based interventions. I developed a strong interest in trauma‑informed care, relational dynamics, and the ways early experiences shape emotional and behavioral patterns. These roles allowed me to support individuals facing anxiety, depression, family conflict, behavioral challenges, and life transitions. I have also completed training in Gottman principles, which has enriched my work with couples and strengthened my ability to support partners in rebuilding trust. I am currently a Florida Board Registered Social Work Intern working toward clinical licensure. My personal history, educational journey, and professional experiences have shaped me into a clinician who leads with compassion, listens with intention, and remains committed to helping others build lives rooted in resilience, hope, and possibility.
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Shantavion McClain, MSW
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern
I’m Shantavion McClain, a Master's-level Social Worker working towards licensure. I obtained my Master’s degree in Social Work from Walden University and my Bachelor’s degree in Counseling and Human Services from Point University. My experiences as a Social Work Intern and volunteer have provided me with valuable insights while collaborating with agencies in Hillsborough County that partner with the Department of Children and Families. As a former adoption caseworker, I had the honor of assisting children and families on their paths to stability and permanency. I take pride in fostering an environment where clients feel comfortable, heard, and supported. I naturally build rapport and advocate for my clients’ needs, empowering them throughout their therapeutic journeys. I work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those facing depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and various mental health issues. Currently, I have been supporting individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder, dissociative identity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and other complex needs. I believe therapy should be a safe, judgment-free space where you can be your authentic self without fear. My passion for social work motivates me to provide quality, compassionate care. I am dedicated to helping clients grow, heal, and achieve their personal goals, and I aim to make a meaningful impact in every session
I'm India Esguerra, and I am a dedicated master's level social worker pursuing my licensure. Originally from Jacksonville, FL, I have recently moved to the greater Tampa Bay area and am eager to make a positive impact in my new community. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Florida State University, which laid the foundation for my pursuit of a Master's Degree at the same institution. During my undergraduate studies, I interned at Champions for Children, where I worked with families and children aged 0-5, conducting screenings, facilitating playgroups, and organizing workshops while also supporting expectant parents. Additionally, I interned at HCA Capital Hospital in Tallahassee during my graduate studies, providing clinical services to adults in groups and further enhancing my ability to create supportive environments that promote mental wellness. I am committed to empowering individuals and families through empathy and understanding, and I truly believe in the transformative power of social work as I look forward to contributing to the Tampa Bay area.
India Esguerra, MSW
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern
I'm Rusmery Freeman, and I moved from New Jersey to Tampa several years ago. I am bilingual in English and Spanish, holding a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Rutgers University and a Master's degree in Social Work from Florida University. With over eleven years in the field of social services, I've had the opportunity to work with various communities, including as a Family Service Specialist at the Department of Child Protection and Permanency (D&P), where I helped families and children find safety. I've also served as a Medical Case Manager for individuals with HIV/AIDS, ensuring access to essential medical care. My graduate internship at James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital allowed me to work with interdisciplinary teams to provide clinical social work services to veterans. Currently, I support the elderly at the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), conducting assessments and creating personalized care plans enhance dignity, independence, and overall well-being. I truly believe in the of human connection, learning from one another, and building relationships while navigating life's challenges. Change is a constant, and we have power to grow through it.
Rusmery Freeman, MSW
Registered Clinical Social Work Intern
I’m Ramon Santiago, originally from Puerto Rico. Growing up in such a vibrant setting instilled in me a strong sense of camaraderie and resilience, shaping my personal and professional endeavors. With a master's degree in social work and pursuing my licensure, I am dedicated to a career focused on helping others, particularly veterans. I have experince working with children and families, individuals, and couples. My aspiration to specialize in mental healthcare for those who have served our nation is supported by my solid foundation in linguistic skills and cultural awareness. My bilingual education has made me proficient in both English and Spanish, enabling me to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, which is crucial for fostering effective communication and empathy in social work.
Ramon Santiago, MSW
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern
I'm Kaleb Phillips. As a Navy veteran and former National Suicide Call Line operator, I have developed extensive experience supporting individuals through intense crises. I hold an undergraduate degree in Fine Art Sculpture from the Academy of Art University of San Francisco, which helps me bring a creative and constructive perspective to therapy. Having earned my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University, I take a systemic and solution-focused approach, helping clients examine the narratives that shape their experiences and develop practical strategies to achieve their goals. I believe therapy is most effective when it balances meaning, measurable growth, and a sense of fun. My goal is to help clients explore possibilities, clarify their goals, and move toward the futures they desire, all within a human-centered approach that values authenticity, connection, and personal agency. I strive to create a space that is engaging, supportive, and practical, where clients can build fulfilling lives while navigating challenges.
Kaleb Phillips, MS
Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern
Hello! My name is Emily Baker. I obtained my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of South Florida. I have training in various Family Systems approaches, and I have a passion for integrating Emotionally-Focused Therapy and Attachment Theory into my work. I believe we all face obstacles in our lives. Some of us have trauma that involves deep healing and some of us may be in a time where we feel stuck at a crossroads. I will be there to walk alongside you and support you as you navigate these challenges. As a relationally oriented intern, I am passionate about working with individuals, families, and couples in exploring and understanding our emotions and underlying attachment needs. Attachment styles can be traced back to childhood and impact how we interact with our loved ones during conflict. I value the importance of helping people to heal the deeper part of themselves that they are often unaware of or have hidden away.
Emily Baker, MS
Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern
My name is Phire White. I hold a master of science degree in marriage and family therapy. As a family systems therapist, my clinical and therapeutic knowledge is used to provide services for individuals, families, and couples seeking support through complex relational and emotional challenges throughout their lives. My approach is intervention and de-escalation based, using a combination of interpersonal, clinical, and systemic skills with a primary focus in cultural competency and multicultural counseling. I am passionate about people and professionalism, and I carry this passion to every session. I have a strong ability to connect to others and believe that much of my way with people is a gift of beauty from my own life journey. I also have a keen interest in educational development and writing. I find my own health in healing by remembering my own humanity, practicing spirituality, and seeking balance in my work and home life. I try to live in a way that inspires, coaches, and adds value to others, even if it just means holding space. Let’s work on talking about what you’re thinking about, to bring about the change you seek.
Phire White, MS
Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern
Emma Short
Intern
Meet the Interns
I'm Emma Short, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapy graduate student at the University of South Florida. I am passionate about supporting couples, families, and individuals who are navigating the complexities of life, relationships, and mental health. I am committed to understanding each client’s unique emotional experiences, personal history, and cultural background to foster meaningful growth and help clients achieve their goals. I aim to create a therapeutic space that is confidential, safe, and healing for all. My clinical approach integrates Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) through a systemic lens, allowing me to develop a comprehensive understanding of each client’s inner world and relational dynamics. I strongly believe that increased self-awareness and a deeper understanding of one’s emotional experiences and thought patterns are essential components of lasting growth and positive change. My goal is to help clients gain deeper insight into themselves, develop healthy and effective communication skills, and move toward their personal and relational goals. Thank you for considering working with me, and I greatly look forward to meeting you and supporting you on your counseling journey!
Miah Sanchez
Intern
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Natalie Arroyo, MS
Office Manager
I’m Miah Sanchez, I graduated from the University of South Florida with a degree in Psychology and am currently completing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am truly passionate about connecting with people and creating a welcoming, supportive space where clients feel heard, respected, and valued. I view counseling as a collaborative journey, where we work together to explore challenges, build insight, and grow. At the same time, I remain committed to expanding my own knowledge and perspective so I can better support my clients. I am dedicated to helping individuals move toward personal wellness and develop meaningful, lasting connections that strengthen their wellbeing. My curiosity, openness, and adaptability allow me to engage comfortably with diverse communities, including children and families, and meet them where they are with empathy and understanding. My goal is to support long term growth, resilience, and stability by empowering clients to discover their strengths and navigate life with confidence and balance.
Meet the Administrative Staff
Tiffany St. Louis, AA
Evening Receptionist
Kitasha Figuereo
Evening/Weekend Receptionist
I'm Natalie Arroyo, a New York City native now residing in Florida. I hold a master's degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology, with a minor in Occupational Health, focusing on both the physical and mental well-being of employees. My passion is to assist individuals in achieving a healthy work-life balance, essential for overall wellness. I take pride in being a dependable source of support and information, and my life experiences deepen my commitment to advancing mental health for everyone.
I'm Tiffany St. Louis from Queens, New York, where I obtained my associate’s degree in early childhood education. I have also completed courses in adolescent psychology and earned certifications in behavioral observation and screening, allowing me to create a safe and nurturing environment for the children and families. During my journey, I realized my true passion is in building one-on connections instead of traditional teaching, which inspired me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of South Florida, to obtain a Master's in Family and Marriage Therapy. The mission is to help individuals cultivate healthier relationships and stronger connections with their loved ones, friends, and acquaintances. I'm grateful to collaborate with experienced professionals in this field and look forward to learning while supporting both myself and my clients. Thank you for taking a moment to learn about me!
Hello! I’m Kitasha Figuereo-Escobar. I was born in Brooklyn, New York, and have spent most of my life in Tampa, Florida. I have over 15 years of experience in healthcare, where I’ve found my passion for helping others through organization, communication, and creating a welcoming experience for every person I meet. Whether assisting patients, supporting providers, or helping keep an office running smoothly, I believe even the smallest interactions can make a meaningful difference.
I am currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration and am passionate about continuing to grow both personally and professionally. I feel grateful to be part of a practice dedicated to supporting mental health and strengthening individuals and families. I look forward to learning from this incredible team while providing compassionate support to everyone who walks through our doors
HOPE IS A CALL AWAY!
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2660 CYPRESS RIDGE BLVD SUITE 101
WESLEY CHAPEL, FL 33544
813-994-4440 or 813-994-3922
Correo electrónico: NatalieArroyo.hpcs@gmail.com