Our Mission
IKANN Wellness was founded on a simple but powerful belief: every woman deserves access to compassionate, evidence-based mental health care — without stigma, without judgment, and without barriers. We exist to provide a safe, healing environment where women can confront their pain, discover their strength, and build a life they're proud of.
Our name, IKANN, reflects our core philosophy: I Can. No matter what you've been through, no matter how broken you feel, you can heal. You can recover. You can reclaim your life. And we're here to walk that path with you.
Our Approach
At IKANN Wellness, we combine clinical excellence with holistic healing. Our treatment programs integrate evidence-based therapies — CBT, DBT, EMDR, and trauma-focused modalities — with experiential approaches like equine-assisted therapy, yoga, art therapy, and mindfulness. We believe that healing the whole person — mind, body, and spirit — produces deeper, more lasting results than any single approach alone.
Who We Serve
We specialize in treating women navigating:
- Anxiety, depression, and mood disorders
- PTSD and complex trauma
- Substance use and co-occurring disorders
- Burnout and compassion fatigue
- First responder and educator-specific mental health challenges
- Relationship and family issues
Our programs are inclusive and culturally sensitive, serving women of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and life experiences. We are proud to serve South Florida's diverse community, including our vibrant Hispanic and multicultural population.
Meet Our Team
Sarah Ruza, RMFT-I
Founder of IKANN Wellness and Yacholet Ikann. Sarah holds a master's in Marriage & Family Therapy from Touro University and specializes in somatic awareness, hypnotherapy, and the mind-body connection. She uses integrative modalities to help women navigate trauma and achieve self-actualization.
Atara Raab, LMFT
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with a master's from Touro University. Atara is dedicated to helping clients identify their strengths and build resilience. She works closely with families, fostering healthy communication and creating supportive environments for healing.
Ana Carolina Bendeck, LMHC
Over seven years of experience specializing in eating disorders and complex trauma. Former Assistant Clinical Director at Monte Nido Miami. Carolina is bilingual (English/Spanish) and committed to accessible, culturally sensitive care.
Linda N Ruza, MSW, CAP
30+ years of experience in addiction, mental health, co-occurring disorders, women's issues, and trauma. Linda is actively involved in the Jewish Recovery community and serves on boards addressing community mental health issues.
Eden Tovah, MFT, CYT
Eden works with couples, adults, and families navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Trained in somatic therapy, Gestalt, and dreamwork, she integrates spirituality and creative inquiry to deepen reflection and foster resilience.
Gabrielle
Specializes in anxiety, OCD (including taboo OCD), ADHD, depression, and life transitions using CBT and ERP. Gabrielle's approach is down-to-earth, nonjudgmental, and collaborative — helping clients find tools that actually work for them.
Chana Nissel, RMFT-I
15+ years of experience across Jerusalem, New York, and South Florida. Chana uses a holistic approach specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction through somatic therapy, DBT, meditation, and yoga.
Carol Sassoon
35+ years of experience helping people make meaningful changes. Carol is solution-oriented, focusing on practical tools for empowerment and confidence. She recently integrates mosaic art to help clients build self-confidence and positive self-image.
Heala Baitner Cohen, MSW
18+ years empowering women to overcome trauma and abuse. Heala combines clinical counseling with energy therapies — Reiki, meditation, breathwork, yoga, and sound healing — creating transformative spaces rooted in Jewish values.
Risa Berkowitz
Risa brings warmth and true understanding to therapy, working closely with teenagers and women navigating emotional and relational struggles. She helps clients build insight, resilience, and inner stability using various therapeutic modalities.
Our Facility
Located at 2901 Stirling Rd, Suite 203, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, our facility is designed to feel warm, welcoming, and safe — not clinical. From comfortable therapy rooms to outdoor spaces for holistic sessions, every detail is intentional.
Our Values
Compassion
We meet every client with empathy, warmth, and unconditional positive regard.
Confidentiality
Your privacy is sacred — protected by law and by our unwavering commitment.
Excellence
Evidence-based treatment delivered by licensed, experienced professionals.
Inclusivity
A welcoming space for women of all backgrounds, cultures, and identities.
Empowerment
We don't just treat symptoms — we help you build a life of purpose and resilience.
Take the First Step Today
📞 Phone: (786) 504-7626
📧 Email: office@ikannwellness.com
📍 Address: 2901 Stirling Rd, Suite 203, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312