Ruth Smith: A Journey Through Time and Uncertainty

In an unprecedented exploration of the many facets of social work and personal resilience, Ruth Dolores Smith sat down with us at the SWEET Institute to share the winding path of her career in mental health and substance abuse counseling. From the initial days of confusion to becoming a beacon of empowerment, Ruth’s story unfolds like an intricate tapestry.

Early Days and the Call to Social Work
Ruth began her career with a simple yet profound admission: “My name is Ruth Delores Smith. I have been working in mental health, I would guess, ever since I came out of social work school.” Initially a counselor in substance abuse treatment, Ruth found herself perplexed by the persistent struggles of her clients. Armed with a master’s degree in criminal justice, she couldn’t comprehend why her caseload remained entangled in addiction. A fortuitous encounter with her supervisor, Hilda Cruz, redirected her path towards social work, despite Ruth’s initial reluctance.

The Path Not Taken and the Evolution of Understanding
In a candid reflection, Ruth recounted, “I was going to law school… I didn’t think I could be a mother or wife and law student. So I said, Oh, what the heck, I’ll get a degree in criminal justice.” This decision, influenced by societal norms of the 70s, eventually led her to addiction treatment—a field she didn’t choose, but one that ultimately chose her. Through the lens of personal and professional growth, Ruth’s narrative unfolded with a raw honesty about the misconceptions and learning curves she encountered.

A Lifelong Learner and Educator
Ruth’s story is a testament to the power of perpetual learning. “I never feel like I know enough. I really don’t think I know enough. But you know, I know a lot. But I don’t know everything.” Her relentless pursuit of knowledge has driven her to continually seek training and education, aligning herself with progressive institutions like the SWEET Institute. This dedication to learning, she believes, is essential to staying attuned to the evolving needs of her clients.

VIP Community Services and Empowerment
Ruth’s tenure at VIP Community Services is marked by significant milestones and progressive achievements. Hired in 1986, Ruth rose through the ranks, becoming the director of both women’s and men’s residences, and later, the assistant vice president of supportive programs. Under her guidance, VIP embraced a progressive approach, providing services to diverse populations, including the pioneering inclusion of transgender women. Her contributions have been instrumental in shaping the organization’s growth and commitment to community empowerment.

A Personal Mission: The Dissertation
Currently, Ruth is immersed in her dissertation, focusing on the counseling experience of people in methadone treatment—a population she passionately advocates for. “I’ve always felt that people on methadone are treated the worst in terms of addiction treatment.” This endeavor is not just an academic pursuit but a mission to honor and uplift those struggling with addiction, driven by respect for their journey and resilience.

Balancing Professional and Personal Life
Despite her extensive professional commitments, Ruth maintains a private practice, primarily through comprehensive counseling. Her practice, characterized by a deep respect for diversity and a commitment to empowerment, reflects her holistic approach to therapy. Ruth’s use of innovative techniques, such as art therapy and the strategic use of empowering stickers, showcases her ability to connect with clients on a profound level.

Stranger in a Strange Land: A Source of Inspiration
Ruth’s inspiration stems from an early reading of “Stranger in a Strange Land,” where a character with multiple professions left a lasting impression on her. This idea of versatility and the capacity to wear many hats has fueled her drive to continually expand her skills and knowledge.

Empowerment and Humor in Therapy
At the heart of Ruth’s therapeutic approach is empowerment. “I don’t give you advice. That’s not what I do. But I can help you learn how to take care of yourself.” She emphasizes the importance of clients learning to manage themselves, integrating humor as a powerful tool to connect, relax, and empower. Ruth’s unique blend of humor and empathy has made her a trusted and beloved figure in her field.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Resilience and Learning
Ruth Delores Smith’s journey is a vivid illustration of resilience, perpetual learning, and empowerment. Her story is a reminder that the path to success is often non-linear and filled with unexpected turns. Ruth’s unwavering commitment to her clients, her dedication to learning, and her progressive approach to therapy continue to inspire and impact the lives of many.

In a world that constantly evolves, Ruth Delores Smith stands as a beacon of adaptability and empowerment, guiding others through the ever-changing landscape of mental health and addiction treatment. Her journey is not just a professional narrative but a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of lifelong learning.

Ruth Delores Smith, LCSW-R, MPHIL, MA, Master CASAC-G, CCTP, BC-TMH, is an accomplished and experienced licensed clinical social worker with a rich background in chemical dependency and mental health. With 38 years of experience, Ruth has worked with diverse populations, including individuals with histories of criminal justice involvement, homelessness, intimate partner violence, developmental disabilities, trauma, and HIV/AIDS. Her career has spanned various roles, including administrator, clinician, program developer, and trainer.

Ruth’s expertise extends beyond her clinical practice; she has been a dedicated educator since 2005, serving as adjunct faculty at graduate schools of social work and Monroe College. At Monroe College, she has contributed to both the School of Criminal and Social Justice and Academic Technology, developing courses and providing therapy for students as part of the Health and Wellness team. Ruth’s commitment to professional growth is further demonstrated by her current pursuit of a doctoral degree at Walden University, where she is in the dissertation stage.