Meet Raquel, Brave Grand Rapids Counselor, and Adventurer of The Outdoors

Raquel joined the Brave team in 2021. She is passionate about helping people navigate the many complexities that life throws their way. From unhealthy patterns and major life transitions, to simply wanting to improve the quality of a relationship or build confidence, Raquel helps her clients address and unpack these dynamics and take the appropriate steps toward leading healthier, more fulfilling lives.

A firm believer that with growth, comes discomfort, Raquel is committed to supporting her clients through the process while ensuring they feel seen, heard, and valued. She does this by aiming to build an authentic foundation, rooted in respect and trust. She strives to facilitate an experience that brings her clients into a deeper awareness of who they are.

WHAT LED YOU TO A CAREER IN COUNSELING?

My own journey has had a huge impact on my desire to become a counselor. I wanted to be that resource and safe space for people who feel alone or are hurting. 

We all know that life can be hard, and making big decisions can be difficult, but being able to journey with people through their unique experiences while giving them the space to explore and receive the support they deserve, is so rewarding. 

WHAT ARE SOME AREAS THAT INTEREST YOU WITHIN THE WORK YOU DO? 

I find all areas of the human mind and experience fascinating, but a few areas that I am particularly interested in are depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, and life transitions. 

WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING THING ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? 

I feel honored to have people share their story with me. Helping individuals lead more fulfilling lives by developing a broader sense of self-awareness, identifying unhealthy patterns, and discovering the root cause of their challenges is something that never gets old, and never ceases to amaze and inspire me. 

WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR CLIENTS (OR SOMEONE WHO IS CONSIDERING COUNSELING) TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? 

I’m a relatable therapist with a passion for people. I believe in meeting people where they’re at, discovering what works best for them, and offering real tools and skills to get them to the place they want to be. 

WHAT DOES SELF-CARE MEAN TO YOU? HOW DO YOU PRACTICE THIS IN YOUR OWN LIFE? 

Self-care means tuning into yourself. 

My self-care begins when I unplug (and I mean this quite literally). There are times when I have to remind myself to put my phone away, turn the TV off, and step away from the screen. When I am not distracted by technology, it’s easier for me to tune into what I need. By creating healthy boundaries in this area, I am able to show up, be present, and do meaningful work.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE BRAVE? 

Being brave means always showing up as your authentic self, even when it’s hard or intimidating. It means not running from fear, but stepping into it.

WHAT HAS BEING A COUNSELOR TAUGHT YOU?

That we are all perfectly imperfect humans on a healing journey, and no one's journey is the same. 

Everyone has stuff to work through in life and deserves a safe space to unpack those layers and discover what healing means to them. 

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU'VE EVER BEEN GIVEN? 

To never let a setback keep you from trying.  The fear of failure can be immobilizing. It keeps people from encountering life outside of their comfort zone. But, when harnessed in a healthy way, it can also serve as a catalyst and propel you forward toward achieving your dreams and goals. 

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO OUTSIDE OF YOUR CAREER? 

My family and I love the outdoors, regardless of the changing seasons, but summer might be our favorite as we love to camp.

In my alone time, you can probably find me with a warm cup of coffee and a good book.

IF YOU COULD TRAVEL ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD, WHERE WOULD IT BE AND WHY? 

I would love to travel to Ireland to see the Blue Stack Mountains and waterfalls. Every picture I’ve seen from there looks like a painting. 

WHAT IS AN INTERESTING FACT ABOUT YOU? 

We have two dogs that combined weigh less than 15 pounds, but somehow they rule the whole house.

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE THAT YOU WOULD GIVE TO SOMEONE CONSIDERING COUNSELING? 

Counseling is a valuable resource for everyone, no matter what stage of life you’re in. The therapy process often leads to building a better life because you feel more equipped to handle whatever life throws your way.