I worked for three years at the West LA VA with Veterans in the HUD-VASH program and Veterans experiencing psychosis. I most recently provided therapy in a prison diversion and re-entry program for adults with serious mental illness. From these experiences, I have a strong interest in helping clients with bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, PTSD, general life stressors, as well as active duty military and Veterans.

How Can I Help You?
Feeling a wide range of emotions is normal! Actually, feeling all of our emotions serves a function in life. However, when certain emotions take over our minds, we may feel distress, discomfort, or feel “stuck.” As your therapist, I won’t judge your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors, but rather partner with you to make them more manageable. I also like to focus on adding meaningful engagement into my client’s life. We will work together to explore what makes life meaningful and worth living for you.

As someone who has been in therapy myself, I know firsthand how nerve-wracking it can be to be vulnerable with a stranger. As such, I like to spend time building a therapeutic relationship with my client and knowing what you are like as a whole person outside of the therapy room. I will approach you with patience, warmth, empathy and take each session at a pace you feel comfortable. I will also be honest with you, even if that means having a difficult conversation, to help the healing process. I believe that this balanced approach of validation and positive encouragement for change helps my clients in their journey to wellness.

I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and have training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Motivational Interviewing. What all this means is that we can take therapy in a lot of different directions, use many different tools, and find what works for you!

My Philosophy on Mental Health:
I believe that everyone has the skill and ability to make personal growth, whether they know it or not! For this reason, I like to explore what is working well for you and see how we can expand your current strengths into other areas of life. I like to add new tools to current skillful behavior to better handle what life throws at you.

More About Me…
I am originally from Massachusetts but have been living in sunny California for 11 years! I enjoy going on long walks outdoors, listening to country music, swimming, and watching movies. I get nourishment from spending time with friends and family, as well as snuggling with my fat cats!

Fun Fact!
I love to garden! You can find me caring for houseplants, flowers, and growing veggies.

Scheduling Information:
Rachel is currently providing virtual sessions.
Rachel is approved to accept Aetna, Cigna and TriWest/VA insurances under her licensed supervisor.