Rachel Estrada

My name is Rachel Estrada, LCSW. I am a practicing Clinical Therapist with over 22 years of experience, and I truly enjoy assisting individuals, couples, and families in setting the stage for change in their lives. Many of us struggle with the initial steps to developing solid plans for addressing challenges, such as the history of trauma, parenting, partnering, career development, and self-care to maintain optimal emotional and physical health. My approach is grounded in Psychosocial Theory, and interventions are cognitively/behaviorally influenced to best fit the needs of the clients I serve.

My approach

My approach to providing therapy services is to recognize the unique, individualized qualities of each individual. I utilize theoretical approaches that are fundamental to Social Work Practice that, include Social Learning Theory, Systems Theory, Psychosocial Development Theory, and Rational Choice Theory. The models of practice I utilize most often include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Crisis Intervention Model, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Task-Centered Practice.

My focus

Many of my clients have experienced depression and anxiety symptoms that are interfering with their relationships, work performance, daily activities, housing, and academic achievements. There are times when histories of addiction and trauma have greatly influenced the impact felt by clients, leaving them feeling empty and uncertain about the next steps. I am comfortable assisting individuals, couples, and families in navigating their way to positive symptom management and building recovery plans/relapse prevention plans to optimize success in their lives.

My communication style

The atmosphere I find most comforting to clients is that of safety, welcoming self-expression, and honesty in disclosing and examining sensitive personal information. I believe clients would describe me as sensitive to their identified needs while maintaining a non-bias/neutral position, allowing the client to accept supportive guidance that has the potential to motivate change toward identified treatment goals.

My journey to mental healthcare

I have found a great amount of fulfillment in my work with clients. I am grateful for the privilege of partnering with clients during difficult times in their lives and striving towards providing the best possible interventions to meet their identified needs. I take pride in utilizing my therapeutic skills to assist Individuals, couples, and families become courageous while managing uncomfortable issues. My motivation and momentum to sustain my practice are derived from the patient experiences and the joy that is experienced when the commitment is mutual to equip with techniques while building new beginnings.

My goals for you

Goal setting is established early in my therapeutic relationship with clients. I find it instrumental that clients are able to begin their journey towards reducing negative symptoms and building positive coping strategies from the initial visit with me. Whether steps towards change are small or extra large, therapy is not a one size fits all and together, we pace ourselves to cultivate the soil you stand on and to fertilize it to grow your abilities as desired and tolerable.

My first session with you

During an initial session with me, I review the information provided during intake to verify what clients feel is most important for me to understand, and together we discuss where to begin—essentially exploring the "why" behind seeking therapy at this time in someone's life. We work together to establish priority items while assessing risk factors throughout our time together, as my client's safety is a top priority.