Leigh J. Ruth, MD has dedicated her career to the mental health and well-being of children, adolescents, and young adults. A proud alumna of the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California, Dr. Ruth graduated in 2012, setting the foundation for her impactful journey in the field of psychiatry. Her pursuit of excellence led her to the University of Maryland / Sheppard Pratt psychiatry residency program, where she honed her skills and specialized further through a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, graduating in 2017 as Chief Fellow of Sheppard Pratt Health Systems.

Upon completing her training, Dr. Ruth joined the University of South Florida as an attending psychiatrist, where her expertise and passion quickly distinguished her as a leader and innovator. Her dedication to cultivating the next generation of psychiatrists was recognized with her appointment as the Associate Program Director of USF’s Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship in 2020 and subsequently as the Program Director in 2022. She has won numerous teaching awards from residents and enjoys mentoring both medical students and residents. She joined UNC Chapel Hill in 2026 as a Clinical Associate Professor providing inpatient virtual care to adolescents in Western North Carolina.

With a profound commitment to her patients, Dr. Ruth specializes in treating complex cases involving catatonia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depressive and anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Her empathetic approach and evidence-based treatments have profoundly impacted the lives of countless young individuals and their families. Dr. Ruth’s passion for advancing mental health care continues to influence both her practice and her teaching, inspiring future psychiatrists to prioritize compassionate, patient-centered care.