We are mental health influencers:
Hi, I'm Ruslan Smirnov, an information technology consultant, but that title only tells part of my story.
From Code to Compassion: My Journey from Tech to Mental Health Advocacy
My professional journey began in Volgograd, Russia, where I dove deep into SEO, website development, and digital strategy. I was passionate about coding and systems, but I was equally drawn to creativity, human behavior, and meaningful communication.
🌍 From Volgograd to New York: A Digital Foundation
When I moved to the United States seven years ago, everything shifted. I didn't just change countries, I changed perspectives.
I enrolled in the User Experience (UX) Circuit at General Assembly, where I learned how to design digital tools that are both empathetic and accessible.
I also connected with the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), deepening my understanding of ethical, user-centered digital communication.
These experiences laid the foundation for something greater: using tech not just to optimize, but to empower.
Facing Mental Health Challenges: My Turning Point
independent living skills
Relocating to a new country while navigating the demands of fast-paced tech roles took a toll. I began struggling with chronic anxiety and mental exhaustion, something many professionals in digital fields silently face.
I had mastered productivity but not peace.
That was my wake-up call. I realized that emotional resilience was just as essential as technical expertise. I started training my nervous system, rebuilding my routine, and prioritizing mental well-being.
This shift didn't mark the end of my career; it became the start of something more meaningful.
Fusing Tech with Advocacy: Guided Steps NY, INC.
Today, I am proud to serve as an Information Technology Consultant at Guided Steps NY, Inc., supporting digital operations for programs under the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver.
This role lets me blend my technical background with advocacy and mental health storytelling. I design systems, craft impactful content, and use social media to drive awareness about:
Mental health and trauma recovery
Independent living skills
Cognitive rehabilitation
Digital accessibility for neurodiverse users
Working at Guided Steps gave me a sense of purpose. It wasn't just tech, it was transformational communication.
What's Next: Health and Wellness Coaching
Recently, I've taken a significant step in pursuing health and wellness coaching.
This new direction brings together:
My UX and tech expertise
My journey with mental health
My desire to help others grow in a balanced, sustainable way
🧠 The Mental Health Shift: A Personal Turning Point
Whether I'm coaching someone through burnout, helping a team design for inclusivity, or sharing practical tools for emotional regulation, I do it with empathy, strategy, and heart.
As I navigated life in a new country and the pressures of fast-paced tech roles, I began dealing with chronic anxiety and mental fatigue. Like many in the digital space, I had mastered productivity but struggled with balance. I was successful on the outside, but internally, I was learning to cope, actively trying to train my nervous system and build a routine that supported my well-being.
Why This Mission Matters
For me, mental health is no longer a side conversation; it's the core of everything I do.
Whether optimizing websites or coaching individuals through transformation, I bring awareness, authenticity, and purpose.
Because we're not just machines. We're humans.
And it's time the digital world reflected that.
The Benefits of Mental Illness
I realized that success must include emotional resilience, not just technical expertise.
That’s when my career—and mindset—began to shift.
🎤 Becoming a Voice: Speaker for the Brain Injury Association
Let's Connect
If you're passionate about mental health advocacy, trauma recovery, neurodiversity, or simply want to discuss technology and transformation, let's connect!
I'm always open to meaningful conversations and impactful collaborations.
