Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Meirink.
Hi Rachel, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My desire was always to help people heal. Starting as a nursing major, I would often become nauseated from pictures and soon learned that helping people to heal emotionally and mentally was more of my strength. Learning skills throughout my education and training, I also learned to apply healing principles to my own life. It was a transformative process that helped me feel connected to my authentic self, grow in self-compassion, connect with my values and discover what brought me joy in life. I found that my journey to help other people heal was also a journey for my own healing. Part of the joy I have in helping others is knowing first-hand the benefits that this work has brought into my own life.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The commitment to becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor was quite rigorous. Going through graduate school and then getting 3,000 licensure hours was something that required patience and motivation. Getting to the finish line was much more of a marathon than a sprint, which was challenging in a world that offers many rewards in a much faster way. I am so glad I took the long road however, as the rewards have been well worth the price.
Starting my own private practice was also a big step as a I ventured out on my own and had to have trust in myself in the process. I’ve had to find creative ways to create a professional support system and participate in on-going trainings, but I have found that the process has only expanded my opportunities and not narrowed them.
Overall, every challenge that has come along the way has helped me grow, which is what I’m all about as a counselor.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Rachel Meirink Counseling Association?
I started Rachel Meirink Counseling Association with a heart to provide compassionate, professional and effective counseling services to those seeking support. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I can serve clients in both Missouri and Texas. I grew up in St. Louis, Missouri which is where I am currently located, but I lived in Texas for years after graduating with my master’s and very much enjoy getting to work with clients in both locations.
I work with adult clients, primarily in their 20’s-40’s who are struggling with a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues and struggles around their faith.
I’ve worked hard to gain extra training throughout the years including becoming certified in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and becoming a Certified Spiritual Director. Having gone through the extensive trainings that I have, I feel well equipped to serve those in my care in the best way that I can.
What’s next?
I have recently started a PhD program in Counseling Education and Supervision. My goal is to continue working in private practice supporting the healing process for individuals while also advancing in skills to best train and teach new counselors down the road.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rachelmeirinkcounseling.com
