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Dr. Rachel W. Friendly is a queer- and gender-affirming therapist offering inclusive, culturally-responsive therapy. She works with young adults, the young at heart, and anyone seeking personal exploration and growth. Rachel’s clients come to therapy with her because they are ready to explore their identities, build healthier relationships with themselves and others, and take ownership of their power. Rachel is particularly passionate about serving clients who have struggled with the message that their authentic selves are not acceptable. She does a lot of work on gender issues in general and with the transgender and nonbinary community in particular.
Rachel takes a relational approach to therapy, acknowledging the importance of relationships on our wellbeing and using the relationship she develops with clients to explore patterns that may be getting in the way of healthier relationships with others. She also looks at wellness through a feminist and liberation lens, meaning that effective therapy must address the systems of power and oppression that impact us all.
Rachel's style is warm, compassionate, and collaborative. When clients first start therapy, she works to create a strong connection and a safe space in which clients feel seen, heard, and valued.
Rachel received her Ph.D. from Clark University. Prior to starting her private practice, she worked at university counseling centers in Massachusetts, Virginia, and Northern and Southern California for 13 years. Outside of work, you can find her spending time with friends, doing puzzles, or being creative (singing, dancing, baking...).
Rachel's practice is entirely telehealth, and she is licensed in CA, MA, VA, and D.C., which means she can work with clients who are located in one of those states at the time of session. She is currently based out of Virginia, where she lives with her partner, her young daughter, and their gigantic dog.
Years of Experience: 13 years
College & graduate student mental health - Specialized strategies for common issues of young adulthood, including school and career stressors, support around healthy relationships, existential concerns, drug or alcohol issues, eating disorders, and anxiety and/or depression.
Gender identity & transgender health - Exploring gender identity, including trans, non-binary, and gender variant identities; support throughout the process of transition
Identity development - Understanding, accepting, and strengthening one’s sense of self through the exploration of family, work, and personal values; addressing issues such as, race, class, gender, and sexual orientation, in the context of self experience
LGBTQIA, gender, & sexuality topics - Exploring topics of sexuality, gender, and identity; coping with discrimination and oppression; navigating relationship, family, and cultural challenges
Relationship issues - Understanding one’s wants and needs in relationships; exploring patterns of interaction, addressing concerns, and strengthening satisfaction in relationships and dating
Women's issues - Therapy tailored to common concerns among women; providing a safe and understanding space to address life challenges, stressors, and questions around identity as a woman
Rachel Friendly is not in-network with any insurances.
Read about the benefits of seeing an out-of-network provider here.
This provider can support you in getting reimbursement from your insurance company if you are seeking out-of-network reimbursement. Here are the out-of-network billing options they provide:
Frequency of sessions this provider offers to see clients once you are an established client.
We interviewed Rachel Friendly and asked about their work with clients and guiding philosophies on therapy.
The practice will call you for a free 10min phone call to discuss your needs and ensure a match!
This provider has no upcoming call times available.