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Headshot of Hakeem Rufai, LMFT

Hakeem Rufai

Therapist
14 years of experience
  • Virtual
  • Anxiety, Family issues, Stress management, Relationship issues, Identity issues
  • Individual therapy, Couples therapy, Family therapy

Great to meet you!

You may already understand what's wrong. You recognize the patterns, habits, relationship dynamics, or thoughts that keep showing up, yet nothing seems to change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, stress, family conflict, identity concerns, or the effects of painful experiences, therapy can help bridge the gap between understanding the problem and creating meaningful change. I work with adults, couples, and families who want more than temporary relief—they want practical strategies and lasting growth. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling frustrated, stuck, or disconnected from the life and relationships they want. With more than 14 years of clinical experience, I provide a supportive space where insight and action come together. My goal is to help you create healthier patterns, strengthen relationships, and move forward with greater confidence, clarity, and purpose.

My approach to therapy

I believe healing is a collaborative process, and meaningful change happens when insight is paired with practical action. My style is active, engaging, and focused on helping clients create lasting change in their everyday lives. I draw from Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Behavioral Couples Therapy, Behavioral Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Structural Family Therapy, Bowen Family Systems Theory, and trauma-informed approaches to tailor treatment to each client's needs and goals. Together, we'll explore the patterns that may be contributing to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, substance use concerns, or relationship difficulties while developing realistic strategies that support healthier thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I strive to provide insight, accountability, and encouragement so that change feels achievable, sustainable, and aligned with the life you want to create.

What you can expect from me

You can expect honesty, curiosity, practical problem-solving, and a healthy dose of humor. I believe therapy should be a place where you feel comfortable being yourself while also being challenged to grow. Together, we'll identify the patterns that may be keeping you stuck and develop realistic tools that help you create meaningful and sustainable change. My goal is to help you leave therapy feeling more empowered, capable, and confident in your ability to navigate life's challenges and strengthen the relationships that matter most. I strive to create an environment where you feel supported, understood, and motivated to build the life and connections you truly want.

About me

  • I identify as
    Black or African descent, Cisgender Man
  • My style is
    Empowering, Open Minded, Humorous

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    14 years of experience
  • Training
    MS (Master of Science) at Northern Illinois University
  • License type
    LMFT (Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist) (Florida)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Ascension, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey, Providence Health Plan

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Anxiety, Family issues, Stress management, Relationship issues, Identity issues
  • More specialties
    Substance use / addiction, Depression, Eating disorders, OCD, LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Panic disorders, Cultural & ethnic issues, End of life care, Grief or loss, Physical health issues, Men's issues, Trauma, PTSD
  • Therapy methods
    Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Behavioral Couples Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Structural Family, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused CBT, Solution Focused Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Family Therapy, Bowen Family Systems, Behavior Modification, Behavioral
  • Care types
    Individual therapy, Couples therapy, Family therapy
  • Ages served
    Adults, Seniors
  • Languages
    English