Rachel Patten
Hi, I'm Rachel! I'm a licensed clinical social worker with a Master in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a Bachelor of Science in Education and Social Policy from Northwestern University. I have worked in the mental health field since 2016 and have experience working in crisis response, medical settings, case management and direct therapeutic services. I have worked extensively with individuals living with psychotic symptoms. I approach therapy first and foremost from a strengths based and relational perspective and strongly believe in the healing power of connection. I draw from a variety of theories and modalities including internal family systems, dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and narrative therapy. I draw from critical race theory and feminist theory to continually work towards providing trauma informed and anti-oppressive care. Going to therapy, especially for the first time, can be intimidating. I aim to create a safe, warm and welcoming space to explore the things that are important to you. As a clinical social worker, I view us all as individuals who are intimately impacted by our environment, relationships, culture and background. I support individuals in exploring how these factors may be hindering or protective in working towards goals. I also want to acknowledge that the single most important indicator of how effective therapy will be is the relationship that you have with your therapist. With that in mind, I may not always be the right fit, but I never want anyone to feel stuck or bad about that and will do what I can to support you in finding the right person as you continue your healing journey.