Ruth's area of interest is childhood trauma, and the role of specific interventions, specifically play therapy in supporting these children.

She obtained a B.S.W. (1988, Memorial University), MSW, Ind & Family Therapy (1999, Memorial University), and a Certificate in Child & Play Therapy, CACPT, Kings University, London, Ontario (2006-2009). She is currently working towards her PhD(c) (2010-present, Memorial University).

Ruth's employment history includes:

Youth Corrections (1989-1999), Government of NL

Child & Youth Mental Heath (1999-2009) Community Health, NL

Respectful Workplace Coordinator (2009 - 2010) Central Health, NL

Community Mental Health Services, Child/Adolescent Mental Health (2010 – 2011), Central Health, NL

Assertive Community Treatment Team (2011–present) Central Health, NL

Private Practice (2007- present) Central NL

Ruth is a member of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Social Workers' Ethics Committee (2010 – present)