Rachel Friederichsen

My work as a therapist is meaningful and rich; I consider it a privilege to be in this helping role. At the foundation of my approach is genuine care, respect, and appreciation for you. I have a passion for helping people get to the bottom of what's happening, and supporting them to shift things in ways that serve them.

 

I also know the power of holding space for problems that don't have simple solutions: the power of resting, of considering, of waiting. I collaborate with you to make sure our sessions focus on what is important to you and to make sure that we work at a pace that feels right. I work to be consistent and measured in my interactions so that you know what to expect from me.

 

I bring experience, yes, but you will have the most information and lived experience when it comes to your personal situation. My job is to understand this as much as possible, and offer a process to inspire the changes you desire.

 

Sometimes this looks like deep listening and concentrated work. Sometimes this looks like laughter and lightness. We need it all to get down to the marrow.

 

I recognize that much of our psychological distress is a normal response to oppressive systems and traumatic experiences. I will work to name these with you and appreciate all the ways you have learned to cope and survive under these circumstances. Deep in survival mode, it is easy to lose touch with ourselves and with our loved ones. My aim is to help you rebuild these connections and find a new way forward.

 

In the spirit of breaking cycles of harm, I work hard to recognize my embedded biases and accept feedback about my own blind spots. We all share a responsibility for seeing our patterns clearly and for making the necessary changes for a better life, for better relationships, and for a better world.

 

Just like you, I navigate the normal pains and difficulties of life. To offset these forces, I have worked to build a life rich in love, creativity, and fun. I’m blessed to have good friends, partners, and family members in my inner circles. I love to play and perform music, to attend live performances, to dance, to socialize, and to have dinner parties. I also delight in gardening, time with animals, time outside, and travelling.