I am a compassionate and attentive Licensed Mental Health Counselor fluent in both English and Spanish. My dedication lies in guiding individuals toward clarity, renewed hope, self-compassion, and effective coping strategies to navigate life’s challenges. I strive to create a nonjudgmental and supportive environment where clients feel motivated and safe to prioritize their well-being and pursue the lives they desire. Driven by a profound curiosity about life’s complexities, I earned a bachelor’s degree in Deviant Behavior and Social Control, followed by a graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from St. John’s University. I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Perinatal Mental Health, equipping me to support a diverse range of client needs. With over a decade of counseling experience in various settings—including inpatient mental health hospitals, higher education, and community counseling centers—I have developed a warm and accepting approach. My goal is to help clients understand their challenges and implement lasting solutions for positive change, empowering them to embrace their journeys with confidence and resilience.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In the first session, clients can expect a warm and welcoming environment where we prioritize establishing rapport and trust. We’ll begin with a thorough discussion of their goals and concerns, allowing them to express what brought them to therapy and what they hope to achieve. I will gather detailed information about their background, including any previous therapy experiences, current challenges, and significant life events. This helps me gain a comprehensive understanding of their unique situation. We will also review and sign consent forms and confidentiality agreements to ensure clarity about the therapeutic process and to foster a sense of safety. During this session, I’ll introduce the therapeutic approaches we may utilize, such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) for addressing negative thought patterns, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for enhancing emotional regulation and interpersonal skills, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for processing traumatic memories. I’ll explain how each method works and how it can be tailored to their specific needs. This initial meeting is primarily about creating a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings, allowing us to collaboratively determine the best path forward. By the end of the session, clients can expect to leave with a clearer understanding of the therapy process and a sense of direction for our work together.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strengths as a provider include empathy, active listening, and a strong ability to create a safe, supportive environment. I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client, utilizing evidence-based practices while fostering a collaborative relationship.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I am best positioned to serve clients who are navigating trauma and emotional challenges, particularly those who may benefit from EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I specialize in supporting individuals with a history of trauma, anxiety, and depression, helping them process distressing memories in a safe and compassionate environment. My training in EMDR allows me to guide clients through their healing journey, fostering a sense of empowerment and emotional regulation. I also have a strong focus on perinatal mental health, which enables me to support expectant and new parents facing the unique challenges that arise during this transformative period. I understand the emotional complexities surrounding pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood, including anxiety, depression, and feelings of overwhelm. In our sessions, I create a nurturing space where clients can explore their feelings, share their experiences, and develop coping strategies tailored to their needs. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, aimed at fostering resilience and promoting overall well-being. I strive to empower clients by validating their experiences and providing tools that help them navigate their challenges with confidence and self-compassion. Together, we work toward healing and growth, allowing clients to embrace their journey with hope and strength.
About Rachel E. Lorenzo-Ramirez
Identifies as
Serves ages
Licensed in
Accepts
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
EMDR
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a powerful approach for addressing trauma, anxiety, and distressing memories. EMDR helps process and reframe past experiences that may feel “stuck,” allowing clients to reduce emotional intensity and regain a sense of balance. In my practice, I use EMDR to gently guide clients through distressing memories while incorporating bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or tapping. This process helps the brain reprocess difficult events in a safe, supportive environment. I integrate EMDR into therapy when clients are ready, tailoring the approach to their unique needs and pace. My goal is to help clients reduce the grip of painful memories, build resilience, and foster healing and empowerment.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have extensive experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based approach that focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I have successfully used CBT to help clients navigate anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and life transitions by identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress. In my practice, CBT provides a structured yet flexible framework. Together, we explore how your thoughts influence your emotions and actions, and I guide you in developing healthier ways of thinking. Sessions often include practical tools, such as reframing negative thoughts, problem-solving strategies, and relaxation techniques, which you can apply in daily life. My goal is to empower you to take control of your mental well-being, reduce distress, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I have extensive experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a highly effective approach for helping individuals regulate emotions, manage stress, and improve relationships. DBT emphasizes skill-building in four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. I use DBT principles to support clients who struggle with overwhelming emotions, impulsivity, or difficulty navigating relationships. In my practice, I tailor DBT techniques to meet each client’s unique needs. For example, I may guide clients in learning mindfulness practices to stay present, teach coping strategies for managing intense emotions, or help improve communication skills to strengthen relationships. By integrating DBT with other therapeutic approaches, I aim to create a supportive environment where clients feel empowered to build a balanced and fulfilling life.