Who We Are

Our Practice

At CathARTic Breakthroughs cognitive behavioral skills, art, and creative problem solving are blended to help you develop individualized social, emotional, and behavioral interventions. The approach is described as an effective balance of creative compassion and firm support to foster empowerment. When words are not enough, art is the bridge. You will receive a perfect combination of therapy and art to experience a CathARTic Breakthrough!

Our passion is about helping people find peace and inner strength to achieve their desired outcome. Let’s overcome the challenges of life transitions through building a trusting, supportive relationship. We will journey to understand the ways our thoughts and feelings influence behaviors and relationships as well as our views of the world. Together, we will create a customized plan to improve self-esteem, cultivate resilience, promote insight, and guide emotional growth. Make today the day you choose to start on your path to wellness and be an active participant in your care and growth. (Art experience is not required.)

Our Treatment Focus

Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan.

Our Promise

We promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.

Owner & Psychotherapist

Shanika Rucker, LCSW

After working at a local newspaper, Shanika shifted career paths to fulfill her desire of making a bigger impact in the world. She graduated from the University of Bridgeport with a Bachelors in Psychology in 2010, Fordham University with a Masters in Social Work in 2014, and became certified in Therapeutic Art in 2019.

Over the years, Shanika volunteered at Casey Family Services, Juneteenth of Fairfield County, and Positive Young Brothers & Sisters Mentoring Program while building her career. Her experience in residential and traditional settings spans various populations which include mental health, domestic violence, sexual assault, homelessness, as well as at-risk youth in and out of foster care.

Now, Shanika has developed and provides culturally competent, evidence-based therapeutic services within the framework of trauma-informed, strengths-based, and client-centered approaches.

"Be the Change You Want to See in the World." ~ Gandhi