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Rachel McGowan

Rachel McGowan

LICSW

Massachusetts

Collaborative, practical therapy with a warm approach

Continue with Rachel

At a glance

Credentials
LICSW
License
LICSW, Massachusetts / 117126
Experience
11 years
Languages
English
Location
Massachusetts

Details come from information the therapist supplied to BetterHelp. A license can be checked with the state board.

    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Skill building
    • Warm interactive style

    About Rachel

    Rachel McGowan is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) practicing in Massachusetts. She brings 11 years of clinical experience and a calm, interactive manner to sessions. Rachel aims to create a non-judgmental space where people feel heard and respected.

    She uses Motivational Interviewing alongside client-centered methods to help people find their own reasons for change. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy tools are used when practical skills and emotion regulation are needed. Mindfulness practices are offered to build simple daily routines for coping.

    Rachel has worked in schools and in residential settings, giving her experience with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and social skills challenges. She has supported people affected by physical, sexual, and emotional trauma and has worked with concerns such as eating difficulties, bipolar mood shifts, panic, and social phobia.

    Her style is warm and respectful. Sessions focus on identifying triggers, building coping strategies, practicing mindfulness, and improving communication and self-esteem. Rachel emphasizes forming a strong working relationship and collaborates with each person to set clear, realistic goals.

    She also works with a certified therapy dog, Bauer, a Goldendoodle who can help some people settle into sessions. If someone is ready to explore change, Rachel offers guidance and practical steps toward that goal.

  2. How these approaches translate to online therapy

    Motivational Interviewing helps people explore their own reasons to change in a conversational way. Online sessions can use this gentle, goal-focused questioning to help clarify choices and build motivation for next steps.

    Client-Centered Therapy centers the person’s experience and priorities. In remote sessions this means the therapist listens closely and tailors each meeting to what the person brings, whether that is emotions, problems at work, or parenting strain.

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on spotting unhelpful thoughts and trying small experiments to change behavior. Online work can include short skill practices between sessions and using simple tools to track progress.

    Finding the right approach is part of the work. Rachel will collaborate with each person to decide which methods fit best based on needs, goals, and personal preferences. She adapts techniques over time so sessions stay practical and relevant.

    Confirm the current session formats before booking so you know how sessions are offered. Online therapy can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy schedule, allow for shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. These practical benefits help people keep momentum between sessions without promising a specific format.

  4. Areas of expertise

    Primary focus

    Stress, AnxietyDepressionADHD

    Also works with

    LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseEating disordersParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderCoping with life changes

    Additional focus areas

    Attachment issuesAutism and Asperger SyndromeDisruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)Family problemsMood disordersPanic disorder and panic attacksPost-traumatic stressSocial anxiety and phobia

    Therapeutic approaches

    Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)Mindfulness TherapyMotivational InterviewingSolution-Focused TherapyTrauma-Focused Therapy

    Experience

    11+ years

    Listed in

    Massachusetts

    Languages

    English

  5. Frequently asked questions

    What kinds of concerns does Rachel help with?

    She works with a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma and abuse, eating concerns, anger, self-esteem, bipolar mood issues, and coping with life changes.

    What is her therapeutic style like?

    Rachel uses a warm, interactive, and non-judgmental style. She combines Motivational Interviewing with client-centered work and practical skills from CBT and DBT.

    What background does she bring to sessions?

    She has 11 years of experience, including work as a clinician and school social worker and four years in a residential setting supporting people impacted by trauma.

    What are her credentials and where is she based?

    She holds an MA and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) practicing in Massachusetts.

    Which languages are supported and can international clients be seen?

    Sessions are offered in English. She is not currently accepting international clients.

    What session formats are offered?

    Please confirm current session options before booking so you know which formats are available for scheduling.

    How does pricing work for sessions?

    Cost varies with location and therapist availability, and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

    How do I get started with Rachel?

    Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to the therapist's availability.

  6. Online talk therapy is not emergency or medical care. Stopping or cutting down alcohol or other drugs can be unsafe without medical advice. In immediate danger? Crisis numbers

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Rachel McGowan Continue with Rachel