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Rachel Finnell, M.Ed, MHC

Mental Health Counselor

I am a clinician at our South Hills clinic who provides therapy services!

My ideal client is someone who is open to growth, even if they are unsure of where to start. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, or a general sense of feeling stuck or unfulfilled. They might not have all the language for what they’re experiencing, but they know something needs to change. I especially enjoy working with early childhood and adolescence stages who are navigating the emotional, social, and developmental challenges that come with growing up. Whether they’re dealing with anxiety, behavioral issues, peer conflicts, academic stress, or family transitions, I appreciate the opportunity to support them during these formative years. I also enjoy working with individuals in early adulthood as they begin to explore their identities, build independence, and navigate new roles and responsibilities in their personal, academic, or professional lives.

Their issues may include emotional dysregulation, difficulty communicating needs, unresolved past experiences, or challenges with self-esteem and identity. They may be navigating stressors related to school, work, or even living up to family expectations. Their needs often include a safe, supportive space to feel heard and understood. They may benefit from tools to manage their emotions, healthier thought patterns, and a clearer sense of self.

Their goals vary, but commonly include building emotional resilience, improving relationships, developing healthier coping mechanisms, increasing self-awareness, and finding more meaning and balance in their lives. Ultimately, they want to feel empowered, more in control of their mental and emotional well-being and to live in a way that feels authentic and fulfilling, because they’re tired of feeling overwhelmed or disconnected from themselves. They’re ready to build a life that reflects who they truly are and what they value.

I help by creating a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients, especially children, teens, and young adults can feel safe to explore their emotions, challenges, and goals. My approach is collaborative and strengths-based, meaning I work alongside clients to uncover their resilience, build healthy coping strategies, and move toward meaningful growth.

My background in school counseling and mental health therapy allows me to bridge the gap between emotional well-being and everyday functioning, whether in school, at home, or in relationships. I specialize in working with school-aged children and adolescents dealing with anxiety, emotional dysregulation, behavioral concerns, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I also have experience supporting clients/students with autism diagnoses, helping them navigate emotional and social challenges with understanding and compassion.

I draw from evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, mindfulness techniques, and play-based interventions. My sessions are guided by compassion, authenticity, and a deep belief in each client’s capacity for growth. I prioritize empathy, active listening, and culturally sensitive care, and I am committed to doing what is right behind each client, even if that means making space for difficult conversations, advocating for their needs, or walking with them through uncertainty. Ultimately, I strive to empower every client to feel seen, valued, and equipped with the tools they need to thrive throughout their lives.

I want my clients to know that I genuinely want to help and hear about what you’re going through. Whether it’s something big that feels overwhelming or something small that’s been lingering in the background, your experiences matter. This is your space to share, unload, process, and just simply be. We’ll laugh, we’ll cry, we’ll do whatever you need, but most importantly – we will get through it!

I believe in showing up as my full, authentic self in the therapy room, and I invite you to do the same. Therapy isn’t always easy, but it doesn’t have to feel cold or clinical. Together, we’ll figure out what you need, and I’ll walk beside you each step of the way. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported.

I am not here to “fix” you because I don’t believe you’re broken. I am here to meet you exactly where you are and help you make sense of your experiences, access your strengths, and move forward with confidence and clarity. So if you’re feeling stuck, anxious, lost, or just ready for something to change, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d be honored to be part of your journey!