Rachael Briones
I’m a licensed clinical social worker who believes therapy should feel like a safe place to be honest, understood, and supported without judgment. Life can bring challenges that leave us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or unsure of what to do next, and you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. My work with adults focuses on helping clients navigate life transitions, relationships, women’s issues, domestic violence, substance use and recovery, chronic health challenges, stress, and the many changes that can come with different seasons of life. I also enjoy working with children and adolescents and helping young people develop the skills and confidence they need to manage their emotions and navigate challenges.
One of my greatest strengths as a provider is empowering clients with practical tools they can use to create real, lasting change in their lives.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process. You know your life better than anyone, and my role is to listen, help you make sense of what you’re experiencing, and provide practical tools and strategies that can help you move forward.
First session
Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin understanding what brought you to therapy. We’ll talk about what you’re experiencing, what has been happening in your life, and what you hope will be different through counseling. I’ll ask questions to better understand your background, current challenges, relationships, strengths, and goals. We’ll also talk about what you’re looking for from therapy and what approach may be most helpful for you. You don’t need to have the perfect words or know exactly what you need before we begin. You can simply start where you are, and we’ll work from there. My goal is for you to leave your first session feeling heard, respected, and with a clearer idea of where we can go together.
Strengths
One of the greatest strengths I bring to therapy is a nonjudgmental and down-to-earth approach. I want clients to feel comfortable being themselves and talking openly about the things they may not feel comfortable sharing anywhere else. I also bring a practical, skills-based approach to sessions. While having a place to talk and process is important, I believe therapy should also give you something you can take with you into everyday life. Depending on your needs, we may work on communication, boundaries, emotional regulation, coping skills, problem-solving, relationship patterns, or ways to manage difficult situations. I meet each client where they are and tailor therapy to the person rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. My goal is to create a space where you feel respected and understood while also feeling encouraged to grow, learn new skills, and recognize the strengths you already have.
Ideal clients
My ideal client is someone who may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, stressed, or simply ready for something to change. You may be navigating a difficult relationship, a major life transition, recovery, family challenges, chronic health concerns, or a season where you’re struggling to understand or manage your emotions. I work well with clients who want more than simply talking about their problems. If you’re looking to better understand yourself, develop practical coping skills, improve communication and boundaries, strengthen relationships, or feel more in control of your emotions and choices, we can work together toward those goals. You don’t have to have everything figured out before starting therapy. You just need to be willing to take the first step. I’ll meet you where you are, without judgment, and we’ll work together at a pace that feels manageable and meaningful for you. I also enjoy working with children and adolescents who need support developing emotional awareness, coping skills, confidence, and healthy ways to navigate challenges at home, school, or in relationships.
Treatment methods
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I received a certification in using DBT after an intense 6 month training. I use DBT when deemed appropriate for clients who are devoted to learning changes and plan to continue therapy for 3-6 months.
Christian Counseling
I use scripture, prayer, and discussions about faith in sessions, helping clients find spiritual meaning and guidance while addressing emotional or relational struggles within a biblical framework.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I generally use CBT as a time-limited therapy that helps clients identify and challenge distorted thoughts and beliefs, and change unhelpful behaviors.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
I use this approach alone or integrated with CBT or DBT to encourages clients to develop present-moment awareness and nonjudgmental acceptance of thoughts and emotions.
Location
Virtual sessions