Misty Rubio-Bustamante
Misty Rubio-Bustamante (she/her) earned a bachelor's degree in psychology and criminology from North Carolina State University. Continuing her studies at NC State, she is currently pursuing a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling in pursuit of becoming a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. Prior to her work as a counseling intern, Misty has provided care to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder as a Registered Behavior Technician and to individuals of all ages with eating disorders as a behavioral health technician.
As a first-generation Mexican American and oldest daughter, Misty was often praised for her independence and resilience. These qualities of strength also came with high expectations that often led to burnout. Through her journey with mental health, she came to know that it is ok to ask for help and developed a passion for helping others. As a Hispanic woman from a lower socioeconomic background, Misty experienced some of the many barriers that impede and prevent folx from seeking mental health counseling. She believes that everyone deserves affirming care that promotes self-worth, love, belonging, and acceptance.
With a person-centered approach, Misty provides space for individuals to feel heard, accepted, and validated. She encourages individuals to be their most authentic selves. Considering the identities and needs of each client, she applies techniques and introduces skills drawn from various modalities. She believes in helping individuals identify their light and voice, a force strong enough to overcome their challenges. Misty invites each client to heal their inner child through validation and processing. Together, they work to understand how the client’s experiences have shaped them, and then consider new perspectives. In her work with clients, Misty intends to instill hope and promote wellness.
Misty speaks Spanish and English fluently and works with adolescents and adults (10+) to address a variety of concerns including family challenges, divorce, intergenerational trauma, relationship conflicts, life transitions, navigating identity, behavioral concerns, mood disorders (such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar), PTSD, and eating disorders. Misty is passionate about serving individuals who experience barriers to therapy, folx who are seeking counseling for the first time, and folx who have had unfulfilling therapeutic experiences.
