Rachel Salerno

Bio

*To schedule an in-person OR family therapy session please call (773) 496-4433

Often in life, it is easy to feel isolated as we navigate our journey, thoughts, and experiences. Frequently, it is comfortable to get stuck in our own patterns and not allow time to check in. We become content with the discomfort. Despite what one may be facing, the healing capacity of human connection can be transformative. True connection occurs when one feels seen and valued within a space and thus allows us to feel at ease sharing struggles. Therapy gives a place for human connection and reflection to occur.

I value the importance of holding space for clients to show up as they need. I believe in meeting individuals where they are so, the therapeutic process can exist. I also believe there is more to therapy than what is in the room. People have complex lives and therefore space must be held for every aspect. I believe a therapeutic relationship must be formed to be successful. As a therapist, I ensure that I am always giving my clients unconditional empathy and holding a non-judgmental space.

I earned my Master’s degree in counseling from Northwestern University, specializing in children and adolescents. Over the past few years, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults from many backgrounds. I have worked with individuals experiencing a broad range of issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship turmoil, life transitions, familial challenges and illnesses, suicidal ideation, self-harm, school refusal, and more. Although my background is in psychodynamic talk therapy, I like to integrate skill and solution-based approaches into therapy. I always ensure I am using an approach that meets the particular needs of the client. I value speaking to individuals about their patterns and past experiences as I believe this is helpful in confronting current struggles. Ultimately, my goal is to provide my clients with the support and care that they need.

In-network insurances

Blue Cross Blue Shield • Self pay • Aetna •

Specialties

Adjustment Disorder • Anger Management • Anxiety • Bipolar Disorder • Daytime Sleepiness • Depression • Divorce • Grief and Loss/Bereavement • Life Coaching • Life Transition • Major Depressive Disorder • Mindfulness • Mood Disorders • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) • Occupational Difficulties • Play Therapy • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Trauma • Relationship Issues • Sadness • Self Esteem • Social Anxiety • Stress/Worry • Suicidal Thoughts

Education and training

• Northwestern University, Masters of Arts in Counseling

Honors and awards

• "Psychotherapy with Black women: Supporting women to heal and thrive" from Black Women's Internal Healing

Languages spoken

• English