Meet Rachel Kurt, LPC
Pronouns: she/her/hers
**Offering In-Office and Online Video Sessions**
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor but I am often thought of as a good listener with a down-to-earth sense of humor. My clients experience me as authentic, warm, kind, and calming, which when combined, create a safe space and therapeutic environment.
My Background…
I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, eventually moving to the city, where I received my undergraduate degree in psychology from DePaul University and my Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University. As a therapist, I have worked in multiple therapeutic settings, from a community mental health center to working with foster children and their foster parents, as well as adults and emerging adults in private practice. My experience in a diverse array of settings created an opportunity for me to work with clients at all stages of life and with varying mental health concerns of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. These varying experiences have solidified my passion to meet clients where they are at in their mental health journey.
How I Help…
Every person is unique and has their own life experiences and cultural backgrounds. When meeting with a client for the first time, I try to learn what I can about their background and use that in my treatment approach in therapy through collaboration with you to identify the best approach to fit your needs. I blend evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, with a humanistic approach to find balance with my clients.
Finding balance and building on personal strengths in order to achieve identified goals becomes important in these moments, as well as understanding the importance of self-confidence. I strive to work with clients to find themselves and the individual nature that can help them through whatever they may face.
I also work with people managing anxiety and depression to build skills, gain insight, and increase self-awareness. I work to provide a safe space for you to explore these issues and provide the necessary tools to face these issues. I truly believe that everyone deserves a life filled with passion and meaning and strive to help my clients learn to put the skills learned into practice to live a fulfilled life.
On a more personal note…
When not engaging in therapeutic work, I enjoy cooking with friends, family, or just by myself. Even though I’ve lived in Chicago for many years, I still enjoy exploring the city as a ‘tourist,’ from walking along the riverwalk, riding a bike alongside the lake, to finding my favorite coffee shop. I am an animal lover, and if requested, will always take up the offer to show you a picture of my cat.
See my full bio by clicking below.