Meet Mary Ramatici

 

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mary Ramatici a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Mary, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.

My sense of purpose has been shaped by a variety of experiences that showed me the power of helping others—a value my parents instilled in me from a young age. They taught me that life’s greatest gifts come from making a positive difference in the lives of others. This belief truly took root when I volunteered through the Jesuit Volunteer Corps and worked at a homeless shelter as a client advocate. While volunteering, I became someone clients could trust and lean on during their most challenging moments. Being a safe space for them gave me a profound sense of purpose. It was more than just a role—I was genuinely making a difference simply by being present and listening. When my volunteer program ended, I realized how much I missed that feeling of purpose and connection.
After my year of service, I moved to San Francisco and accepted a job at a startup in the financial district. I was pulled in two very different directions. On one side, I was surrounded by the appeal of corporate success, where people were focused on wealth and status. On the other side, just outside my office doors, were people experiencing homelessness—individuals I felt deeply connected to because of my previous work. Walking by them each day and feeling helpless made me realize that my calling wasn’t in the corporate world. Helping others wasn’t just a passion for me; it was my vocation.
But it wasn’t until the passing of my father that my purpose was solidified. Losing him made me reflect on life’s fragility and the importance of living with intention. It reminded me that life is short and that the most meaningful way to spend my days is by helping others—a message my father and mother had ingrained in me since childhood. They taught me that compassion, generosity, and service to others are the cornerstones of a fulfilling life. This realization gave me the courage to fully commit to my calling.
My journey continued as I pursued my Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Denver, interning at both a middle and high school. There, I learned the ins and outs of school social work and became a trusted resource for students, families, and the local community. These experiences confirmed my belief that my purpose is to be a positive force in people’s lives, helping them overcome obstacles and find confidence in themselves.
Today, as a mental health therapist working with children, teens, and young adults, I bring my purpose into my work every day. I achieved a lifelong goal last year when I started my private practice, Ripple Therapy, in Denver, Colorado. One unique aspect of my practice is working alongside my certified therapy dog, Nalu. Integrating animal-assisted therapy not only creates a warm and welcoming environment but also helps clients feel more comfortable and at ease during sessions. Nalu has an incredible ability to connect with clients on a deeper emotional level, offering comfort and companionship that enhances the healing process.
Through Ripple Therapy, I continue to be that safe space for others, just as I was at the homeless shelter. I aim to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients feel understood and empowered. By combining my passion for helping others, the experiences that shaped me, and the unique comfort of animal-assisted therapy, I am dedicated to making a meaningful difference. Whether collaborating with other professionals or working directly with clients, I am committed to promoting well-being, resilience, and growth.
My experiences have shaped me into someone who genuinely cares about supporting others, especially those facing life’s toughest challenges. I am committed to social justice and believe in the power of compassion and connection. This reflects my purpose and my promise to continue making a positive impact on every life I touch—fulfilling the legacy my parents inspired in me.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I grew up in northern California and moved to Denver about seven years ago to pursue my graduate degree in social work. Colorado quickly became my home, where I fell in love with the mountains—snowboarding in the winter and hiking and camping in the summer. When I’m not outdoors, I enjoy spending time with friends and my loyal companion, Nalu, who also joins me at work as a certified therapy dog.
I currently work with clients in Colorado, offering both in-person and telehealth services to provide flexible support. I’m also excited to share that I plan to expand my practice to California soon, bringing my approach to even more individuals seeking growth and healing.
In my therapy practice, I am guided by three core values: compassion, empathy, and creativity. Compassion encourages a gentle and non-judgmental approach to life’s challenges. Empathy helps create deep connections, ensuring that clients feel truly seen and heard. Creativity allows us to explore new ways of expressing ourselves and navigating challenges, helping the client discover their unique strengths.
With a background in social work and advanced training in animal-assisted therapy, I offer a unique and holistic approach tailored to each individual’s needs. My mission is to create a safe and nurturing space where you can build resilience, grow with confidence, and find the tools to thrive. If my approach resonates with you, I would be honored to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back on my journey, three qualities have been the most impactful: empathy, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning. These qualities not only shaped who I am but also defined my approach as a therapist.
Empathy was instilled in me from a young age by my parents, who taught me the importance of compassion and helping others. Being present, listening without judgment, and providing a safe space for those going through their toughest moments gave me a profound sense of purpose. Empathy allows me to connect deeply with my clients, helping them feel understood and supported.
Additionally, resilience became essential when facing challenges and uncertainties throughout my life. From navigating the emotional complexities of social work to experiencing personal loss, resilience has helped me stay grounded and focused on my goals. Furthermore, a commitment to lifelong learning has been crucial in my own personal journey. Pursuing my Master’s degree in Social Work expanded my knowledge and skills, particularly during my internship at schools, where I learned the complexities of school social work. Even today, as a mental health therapist and owner of Ripple Therapy, I continue to learn from my clients, colleagues, and experiences. Working with my certified therapy dog, Nalu, has also taught me the profound impact of animal-assisted therapy in creating a safe and comforting environment.
My advice to those early in their journey is to practice these three qualities in their day-to-day lives, both personally and professionally. Remember to listen to understand, not just to respond. Volunteering or working in diverse environments can be a great way to broaden your perspective and build genuine connections. Also, remember that setbacks are part of growth—embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and adapt. Building a strong support system and practicing self-care are vital in maintaining resilience. Lastly, always stay curious and open-minded—there is always something new to learn. Seek mentorship, attend workshops, and never stop learning.
For me, these three qualities—empathy, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning—have shaped my journey and purpose. For those just beginning their path, embrace these values and let them guide you. They not only contribute to professional success but also lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?

I’m passionate about helping kids, teens, and young adults manage anxiety, build self-esteem, and regulate emotions. My ideal client is someone motivated to understand themselves better, develop coping strategies, and grow emotionally. I work with clients facing life challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, body positivity, and relationship issues, creating a safe space for personal growth and resilience.
Using a blend of different modalities, along with art, play, and compassion-focused methods, I tailor each session to your needs and strengths, empowering you to confidently navigate life’s struggles.

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