Amber Ruedi

Amber became a social worker because of her love to help others who are struggling with life’s challenges. Amber works with people 10 years old and up. Amber has an adult son who has Autism and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities. She knows all too well the challenges life has to offer. Over the past 13 years, her professional work and advocacy in the Central Oregon community has guided her to continue her journey and love of helping others navigate difficult life situations. Amber has advocated for foster children and clients of all ages who have intellectual/developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, and mental health challenges, while helping to shape public policy.  

Before Amber became a therapist at Drishti, she had the privilege of working for several mental health organizations. She interned at High Lakes Behavioral Health as a mental health clinician in the primary care setting, specializing in solution-focused therapy to address a wide range of co-morbid health and mental health problems.  

Amber went on to work as an in-home crisis therapist for National Youth Advocate Program, helping at risk children and families and specializing in Functional Family Therapy.  

More recently, Amber worked as a Mental Health Practitioner for all the St. Charles hospitals throughout Central Oregon for many years. In this position, she worked on the psychiatric team specializing in crisis interventions for behavioral issues, mental health challenges including psychosis, suicide, and substance abuse for individuals of all ages.

Through her personal and professional experiences, curious nature and thirst for knowledge, Amber’s goal is to create a safe and supportive space, building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, empathy, and mutual respect. Amber believes in creating a warm and collaborative environment where clients feel empowered to journey towards self-improvement, growth and healing.  

Amber has lived in Bend since 2000. Prior to moving here, she would visit her grandparents in Prineville four to five times a year since she was born. Her family vacationed here all year-round, experiencing all that Central Oregon has to offer. She knew as a child that this was where she wanted to live and raise a family.  

Amber enjoys spending time with family and friends. She has a love for nature and exploring the great outdoors. She loves hiking, camping, mountain biking, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the lakes, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.  

Practicing as a therapist in this community is truly an honor and a deeply rewarding experience.  

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Oregon State University, Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Sciences 
Arizona State University, Master of Social Work