
Rachel Shirley, LICSW
Hi there!
I’m Rachel (she/her) and I’m so glad you’re here.
My beliefs:
I’m deeply passionate about advocating for social justice and helping to alleviate the stigma around mental health. I strive to align my practice with the principles of antiracism, gender inclusivity, sex positivity, body positivity, and a health at every size model. Systemic oppression and discrimination can contribute to many mental health challenges, and I believe that it is essential to address these issues directly in therapy.
Who I see:
I work with many clients who are experiencing a range of symptoms connected to anxiety and depression, and who may have experienced trauma or have a complex trauma history. They may also be working on navigating people pleasing, improving their self esteem, or understanding their romantic or family relationships better. I specialize in providing attachment based therapy and relational therapy, which involves focusing on how the attachments you have had growing up may be affecting your relationships now. It also entails being curious about how patterns in your attachments and relationships have influenced your relationship with yourself, your world view, and more.
A bit about me outside of therapy:
When not in session, you’'ll likely find me taking endless pictures of my two cats (Bandit & Boots), spending time with my spouse, reading romance novels, or running. I’m also a bit obsessed with Dunkin’ iced coffee and unfortunately am one of those New Englanders that drinks iced coffee year round. I feel really lucky to live in the North Shore and love to explore the beaches and just exist outside. I also believe therapists should go to their own therapy, so I might be taking the time to meet with my own therapist or be doing something else to care for my own mental health.
Identity disclosures: cisgendered, able bodied, white