Ruben Hopwood, PhD, MDiv, HSP

Dr. Ruben Hopwood is a Licensed Psychologist, and founder of Hopwood Counseling & Consulting, LLC in Cambridge, MA. He works with people of all genders around issues of identity with a special interest in helping individuals explore the role of masculinity in their lives and relationships. Dr. Hopwood often integrates a spiritual lens to help people navigate questions of belonging, purpose, and meaning. Dr. Hopwood is particularly skilled at exploring the role of religion and spirituality within the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals, where he helps people address the feelings and behaviors that arise from internalized shaming or rejecting messages. Dr. Hopwood offers an open and accepting place for individuals to process a range of issues, including sexual orientation, gender identity, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges through traditional talk therapy. Dr. Hopwood provides affirming care to gender diverse people seeking to affirm and/or explore their gender identity, including providing referrals to gender-affirming medical treatment when needed. Dr. Hopwood uses an integrative approach that equally focuses on self-reflection and behavioral actions which enable individuals to cultivate insight and strengthen coping skills. Dr. Hopwood gently guides individuals to examine their past in order to identify and revise their core beliefs that block them from resolving larger existential questions. When helpful, he works with people to develop a mindfulness or centering practice that makes sense in their daily life and can be drawn upon in moments of distress to remain grounded. Outside of his counseling practice, Dr. Hopwood is a lecturer and clinical consultant to mental health and medical professionals on gender diversity and spiritually integrated care and is a Visiting Researcher at the Danielsen Institute at Boston University. Dr. Hopwood is a nationally certified LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE). He is a Certified Member and Certified Mentor who works with mental health professionals seeking certification in the World Professional Association for Transgender Health. Dr. Hopwood holds a Doctorate of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology and Religion from Boston University; a Master of Divinity from Saint Paul School of Theology; and a Certificate in Spiritual Direction and Companioning from St. Thomas University.