Rachael Cruickshanks is a clinical counselling intern completing her Master of Counselling at Adler University. She approaches her work with the sense that it is a real privilege to sit with people in some of their most raw and honest moments. Her hope is that during her sessions, clients feel safe enough to put down the masks they carry in the outside world. Rachael strives to create a space where clients feel seen and respected as they share their story.

Rachael’s approach is rooted in an emotions-focused perspective, drawing from attachment principles and mindful, somatic awareness. She works from a person-centred, feminist lens, incorporating cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques. Rachael understands that starting therapy can feel daunting, so she works collaboratively and invites clients to set the pace of their sessions. Her work is grounded in an anticapitalist stance, meaning she aims to honour people’s humanity over their productivity. Her community work includes co-founding Care Beyond Capital.

Rachael welcomes individuals and couples over the age of 19, and is passionate about working with people who are navigating trauma, grief, life transitions, stress, anxiety, burnout, relationship concerns, and/or struggles with body image. 

You can expect warmth and genuine care from Rachael. Originally from the UK, her style weaves together compassion, some gentle challenge and a spritz of British humour. Outside of counselling, she spends as much time as she can exploring BC’s glorious nature. She enjoys crocheting, braves cold-water dips, practices yoga, and loves to cook (even if the results vary from day to day).