Vista Listens is a Counseling Division of Vista Living Care, based on the same Vista FAMILY values, dedicated to supporting those impacted by aging and dementia. Whether a spouse coping with changes in their loved one’s abilities trying to connect again or a family navigating the impact of disease in their lives, Vista Listens is able to support you through a variety of flexible services. Individual, Group, Couples or Family sessions can be provided in person or via zoom. Vista Listens is private pay only and does not accept insurance at this time.
Vista Listens, with Ruth Dennis, was established in 2023 BUT is based on 25 years of hands-on experience caring for elders with dementia and more importantly supporting their families, and other loved ones, on the journey.
Our Mission Statement
Vista Listens is committed to the creation of a safe space for anyone facing aging, burnout, caregiving, dementia, major life transitions, or loss. By nurturing the values of, creativity, self-expression, mindfulness and hope our goal is to encourage wholeness. Vista Listens will provide both practical education and support personal growth. We will listen in the spirit of love and respect.
Ruth Dennis, ATR, MFA, MAAT, LMHC, LPCC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
• Individual Therapy
• Couples Therapy
• Family Therapy
• Online/Telehealth Therapy
• Art Therapy
• Specialized support groups
Ruth is a therapist, and author, who has dedicated her career to supporting all types of individuals including those with dementia and developmental disabilities. Ruth offers a wide range of counseling services, and specializes in dementia care, including working with people in the early stages of dementia and Alzheimer's, helping them navigate their journey after diagnosis. With over 30,000 hours of hands-on experience, she has developed innovative therapeutic activities and provided crucial support to families facing the challenges of dementia. Her decades of experience make her a respected and valued figure in the field.
Ruth's educational journey began at the Kansas City Art Institute, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a double major in Ceramics and Painting. She later obtained a Master’s in Ceramics from Cranbrook Academy of Art and a master’s degree in art therapy from Southwestern College in Santa Fe. This diverse background has been the foundation for her impactful work in helping others.
Monica Romero, LMSW
Licensed Master Social Worker
• Individual Therapy
• Couples Therapy
• Children's Therapy
• Teen Therapy
• Family Therapy
• Online/Telehealth Therapy
Monica is a warm, compassionate, and dedicated therapist who genuinely cares about her clients' well-being. With extensive experience working with diverse populations, she specializes in addressing a wide range of therapeutic needs. As a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Monica blends her deep knowledge with a relatable approach that makes therapy feel accessible and supportive. Her client-centered approach integrates evidence- based techniques with mindfulness practices, creating a space where resilience can grow, healing can happen, and personal growth is encouraged.
Throughout her career, Monica has worked with various groups, including individuals dealing with mental illness, anxiety, body image issues, PTSD, and those navigating dementia, grief, and trauma. She has provided support to children, adults, and elders, tailoring her therapeutic approaches to meet each client's unique needs. A proud native of New Mexico, Monica earned her degree from New Mexico Highlands University and brings a lifetime of personal experience to her practice. She is passionate about fostering a non-
judgmental, compassionate atmosphere that encourages self-discovery, empowerment, and healing for clients of all ages.
Specialties
• Grief & Loss
• Art therapy
• Anxiety
• PTSD
• Depression
• Mindfulness
• Disordered Eating & Body Image
• Guidance through life Transitions
• Chronic illness support
• Support for non-verbal individuals and their caregivers
• Specialized care for dementia and age-related conditions for individuals/family
• Burnout prevention for caregivers and professionals
• Support for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families
"Ruth is one of my favorite people and has decades of wisdom, supporting people with dementia and their families... I cannot recommend her highly enough. She is brilliant, creative, and compassionate." - Kathleen M. Fallon, Ph.D., BCC
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