Rachel is a Licensed Resident in Counseling in Virginia and a Nationally Board-Certified Counselor (NCC). She is dedicated to helping others discover a deep sense of hope and activate their fullest potential.
Clinical Focus Areas and Counseling Approaches
Rachel offers in-person and online counseling at Free Spirit for individuals ages 5 and up. She specializes in working with children, as well as women and mothers. She helps clients seeking support for life transitions, stress, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, healthy relationship skills, and wellness lifestyle building. Her counseling style combines elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Positive Psychotherapy, and creative arts integrative techniques, supported by an overall trauma-informed and client-centered approach.
Professional Philosophy
From Rachel’s perspective: “The relationship developed in counseling provides a safe space to process your thoughts, emotions, and a wide variety of life circumstances. I believe you are the expert on you and powerfully able to craft mindsets and habits that create your best life. I strive to maintain cultural awareness and a hope-focused, strengths-based approach. I will supportively walk alongside you as you discover new tools for empowerment, inspired motivation, and wellness in all areas of your life.”
Professional Experience
Rachel brings critical experience in childcare and early childhood education to her work with clients. This background equips her to deeply understand the impact of early life on individual well-being. From this, she developed a passion for working with children and their families. In addition, she also led and co-led several support groups at a domestic violence shelter for women and children. She is also a member of the International Positive Psychology Association.
Educational Background
Rachel earned her M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University, where she also received her B.S. in Psychology. She continues her ongoing professional training under direct clinical supervision from Free Spirit owner and Clinical Director, Dr. Jill Nardin, PhD, LPC. She has long-term goals to pursue specialization in both Play Therapy and Positive Psychotherapy.
Fun Facts About Rachel
- Rachel enjoys singing, reading, thrift store shopping, finding new coffee shops and places to eat, and visiting with family and friends.
- She loves to travel and enjoys engaging in new experiences.
- Her favorite colors are light pink and lavender.
- Her favorite music artists include Adele, Ed Sheeran, and a variety of worship and Disney artists.
- The background you see in Rachel’s photo is from our office “The Field” here at Free Spirit.
Book an appointment directly with Rachel at rachel@freespiritonline.org or at 757-276-9492.
Insurance Details/Fees – As a Licensed Resident in Counseling, Rachel is in-network with Cigna/Evernorth commercial insurance and the following Medicaid Plans: Aetna Better Health, Anthem Healthkeepers+, Sentara Health Family and Community Plans (formerly Optima/VA Premier), and United Healthcare Community Plan; processing for Molina. She is also able to see other non-Medicaid clients for a sliding scale, negotiable fee.
Rachel works directly under the supervision of Clinical Director Dr. Jill Nardin; 757-204-1866 and jill@freespiritonline.org.