Hello! I’m Rachel
PTSD & Trauma
Attachment & Interpersonal Relationships
Adolescence
Professional Philosophy
It is a fundamental rule in nature that creatures are born with skills they need to survive: fish are born swimming, caterpillars make their cocoon without instruction, birds have the instinct to escape their shells. And people are born with the ability to ask for help. So why does it become harder and harder to ask for help as we grow up? I pursued a career in mental health because I sincerely believe it is important. People hurt, and it shouldn’t be taboo to hurt. With help, we can learn how to approach that hurt proactively. I am passionate about normalizing the difficult experiences that are part of being human but can be difficult to look at. I believe creativity is innate in all of us and grants us the capacity to approach difficult feelings, behaviors, or beliefs with compassion.
A combination of art therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and internal family systems allows new personal perspectives on difficult emotional states, which enables an appreciation of the parts of the self that don't always get a voice. Giving these parts a voice creates a holistic perspective on the origin of behavioral patterns, forging a path toward new, healthier patterns.
“It’s never overreacting to ask for what you need.”
― Amy Poehler
Personal Background
Art has always been a major part of my life. Prior to becoming a therapist, I pursued a career as an artist. After some time, I came to realize that my joy and skill lay not in personal recognition from the gallery world, but in using my passion for art to help others. I have worked in settings serving people with severe mental illnesses and in trauma treatment. With each person I can connect with, I feel a tenacious gratitude to be a part of their journey.
AREAS OF FOCUS
All of us here at START address the mental health areas of stress, trauma, and anxiety in our practice. We apply these three topics to unique, specific challenges that our clients are going through. I also offer specialized areas in the following areas:
Adolescents and adults affected by domestic violence, sexual violence, emotionally abusive settings, and childhood trauma
Trauma does not define a person. Survivors of trauma, like anyone else, carry with them a rich and complex history. I employ client-centered parts work to examine the impact of trauma in a way that appreciates the multi-faceted and complete person as more than a diagnosis. Mind-body connections and maladaptive beliefs are explored in an empowering, client-centered environment.
Adolescents and adults who are impeded by anxiety, poor self-image, perfectionism, or lack of motivation.
Anxiety and depression can be debilitating. I foster an environment where we can look at these complex emotional experiences with self-compassion and safety, and examine behavioral patterns that reinforce anxiety and depression. I use combinations of ACT, DBT, and IFS to facilitate this journey and help you embrace your personal agency for change.
Individuals who struggle with interpersonal relationships, boundary setting or maintenance, and individuals who want to build a healthier self-image to facilitate stronger bonds with others.
Everyone struggles with relationships and interpersonal interactions at some point. It is a part of the human condition. In a safe, collaborative environment, I encourage clients to examine their personal relationships and behavioral patterns. Holistic, compassion-based approaches guide our discussion of where these patterns originated and facilitate empowerment and accountability for change.