I approach therapy as a collaborative process rooted in curiosity, respect, and a genuine interest in how your experiences have shaped you. Many of the clients I work with are thoughtful and self-aware, yet feel stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand, whether that’s emotional overwhelm, cycles of self-doubt, or difficulty navigating relationships. You may have spent a lot of time trying to “figure it out” on your own, but still feel unsure how to move forward.
One of the first things I tend to notice in my work with clients is the presence of shame, often showing up as self-blame, avoidance, or a quiet sense of not feeling “enough.” Together, we begin by making sense of these patterns in a way that feels clear and nonjudgmental. I believe that understanding the “why” behind your experiences is important, but not enough on its own. Our work also focuses on what comes next and how to apply that insight in a way that leads to meaningful, lasting change in your daily life.
My approach is integrative and collaborative, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I tailor these approaches to each individual, with a focus on helping you better understand your emotions, strengthen your ability to regulate them, and shift patterns that are no longer serving you.
I also bring a feminist, socially aware lens to my work, informed by womanist principles. This means we will consider not only your internal experiences, but also the broader systems, identities, and relationships that have influenced your story. I strive to create a space where you feel both supported and challenged, where your experiences are honored, and where growth feels possible.
Clients often experience me as warm, engaged, and direct when it matters. I place a strong emphasis on building a relationship that feels grounded in trust, openness, and mutual understanding, while also helping you move toward greater confidence, clarity, and self-trust.
Rachel works with adults (18+) at our downtown location.
Areas of Interest:
- Neurodivergence
- LGBTQIA+ Affirming Care
- College Students
- Caregivers
- Attachment-Based Trauma
Rachel Brightman, MSW, APSW
Advanced Practice Social Worker
Master of Social Work, University of Wisconsin–Madison