Raechel Pierce, MSW, LCSW

Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois - Chicago Jane Addams College of Social Work

Bachelor of Arts in Applied Psychology from the University of Illinois - Chicago

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Gottman Method Level 1, 2020

Behavioral Case Formulation, 2022

Raechel strongly believes that healing starts within the context of connection and relationship with another. With this understanding, she strives to create a warm, compassionate environment rooted in trust and safety where her clients feel comfortable exploring their emotions and experiences at their own pace. She understands that hope is not always accessible in the midst of struggle, and sees therapy as a space where she can hold the vision of healing and possibility until her clients feel ready to hold it too.

Raechel’s approach is empathetic, collaborative, and thoughtfully tailored to the unique needs of each client. Grounded in psychodynamic, relational, and experiential foundations, she integrates evidence-based methods including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and emotion-focused therapy (EFT). Together, she helps clients explore the patterns affecting their lives and relationships to uncover new possibilities for growth. She invites clients to envision meaningful change by gently challenging unhelpful narratives and fostering deeper self-awareness. Her approach blends insight with action, recognizing that meaningful change begins with self-awareness and is sustained by learning the tools to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence.

Raechel views therapy as a deeply personal process of growth and reconnection. She aims to gently guide and empower you toward meaningful change and a more authentic sense of self.

Raechel works with young adults and adults across the lifespan, with a particular focus on individuals who are navigating the transitions of early adulthood and career/academic stress. She specializes in supporting clients struggling with perfectionism, anxiety, relationship difficulties, identity exploration, and self esteem concerns. Her diverse experience in private practice, college and crisis counseling, domestic violence support, and case management with adolescents and families allows her to help clients navigate through a wide range of difficulties and challenges. She particularly enjoys working with clients who are willing to embrace the work that is necessary to grow significantly in their relationship with self and others. She is passionate about helping clients experience restoration and reconnection in their lives, and believes this is made possible through genuine collaboration in the therapeutic relationship. She welcomes you to work with her to deepen self-understanding, create meaningful change, and cultivate more authentic and fulfilling connections in your life.

In her free time, Raechel enjoys discovering new restaurants and sharpening her culinary skills by trying new recipes (and recreating her favorite dishes), attending church, listening to Italian jazz, going to shows, and taking walks in nature. She values connection and spending time with her family, friends, and of course her adorable cat, Olie. Creative expression and play are important aspects in her life and Raechel loves to express that in many different outlets, whether it be through dance, decorating her home, (interior design is a huge passion), or dusting off her camera to dabble in photography. She values presence and enjoying each moment.