Approach:

I believe the purpose of therapy consists of two core elements: helping you understand yourself better and learn ways to create positive change and mental resilience.

Understanding requires curiosity from each of us. It also requires trust built between us, which allows for vulnerability to happen in a safe, albeit not always easy, way. We may explore things like; your tendencies, your strengths, your beliefs about yourself and the world and where they come from, impactful past experiences, your family history, etc. We then use this understanding to help direct us towards what learning is called for to help you reach your goals.

Learning how to create positive change can come in a variety of different ways and from various evidence-based therapy modalities. There is no one-size fits all route, and I take great care to select which approaches would best serve your needs. Some of the learning may include; ways of challenging thoughts or beliefs, building self-compassion, sharing and identifying emotions, mindfulness or relaxation tools, communication skills, help with tolerating difficult emotions, and more.

I know this work is made possible due to the therapeutic relationship we develop overtime. That is why I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental therapy space and advocate for clients to find the right therapy fit.

If this approach aligns with you or is something you’d like to try, feel free to reach out. At this time, I only provide virtual therapy services. I use a HIPPA compliant virtual therapy platform to uphold your privacy.

Racquel Rizzo Mertz, LCPC, PMH-C

Founder & Therapist

Credentials:

  • Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois

  • Masters in Counseling Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, 2021

  • Perinatal Mental Health -Certified; trained to work with those who have experienced pregnancy loss, are currently pregnant, or have recently become parents

  • Training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy to work with couples

  • Years of experience working with individuals and couples