Rachel Kozina, LPC, PEL, author of “School Counselor, Cool Counselor”

Children, Adolescents, College, Young Adults, Adults, New Moms, Parents, Couples, Families

School-related issues, College and Career guidance, Stress Management, Self Esteem, Conflict Resolution, Behavior Issues, Relationships, Perfectionism, Anxiety, Life Transitions

Hi! My name is Rachel, and I would be honored to be your therapist! As a North Shore mom of 3 daughters, all of which attended Winnetka Public Schools and New Trier, I like to think I can truly understand the rewards and different social challenges that come with living in this area.

If you work with me, you’ll receive a wide variety of professional (and life!) experience, paired with unconditional positivity. People often say how warmly they feel and understood when they work with me–but nothing makes me happier than helping kids and parents unlock the barriers that are holding them back from enjoying their life to the fullest.

Prior to being a therapist, I received my M.Ed in Counseling from Marquette University and worked as a school counselor for 9 years serving Junior Kindergarten-12th grade students. Most recently, I was a school counselor at Sacred Heart School in Winnetka. I also worked as a Job Coach and Adjunct Instructor at National Louis University, helping students with life skills, time management and communication. I like to think that I took a meandering path that always included working in the helping profession which I feel most comfortable. I continue to be inspired by everyone I meet along the way.

I strive to offer self-healing opportunities suited to your unique style whether it’s journaling, crafting mindfulness exercises, or simply talking. I draw from aspects of CBT, play therapy, person-centered therapy and conflict mediation. I also rely heavily on my hands-on experience in the classroom and life experiences. My counseling mindset focuses on the whole self; balancing physical well-being with a sense of acceptance, respect, and support through positive attitudes towards work and learning.

School-Aged Children and Young Adults

For nearly a decade, I’ve empowered students using social and emotional skills for their mental health, academic and relationships as a school counselor. We’ve navigated cyberbullying, anxiety, friendships, and struggles at home.I was known as the “feelings teacher” because of my unwavering compassion and kindness. I always work to create a safe space for kids to see the importance of recognizing their feelings.

In the private practice setting, I am excited to have more time and space to help young children (and parents!) feel comfortable and navigate their challenges and emotions.

With my professional experience in schools, and as a mom, I have seen how life-changing it can be for the entire family, with the freedom and tools to move through feelings and be able to enjoy life.

Another way I have facilitated those within this age group is by embracing the phrase: “you don’t need to change who you are.” As middle schoolers and high schoolers make their way through various important and challenging transitions, this phrase can help guide them and remind them of their own worth and individuality.

I come from a family of educators, so I am keenly aware of the constraints placed on them on a daily basis. For that reason, I will cater my counseling sessions with your school-aged child around practical and realistic solutions and tips so that teachers can integrate these in the classroom with ease.

Parents

Nothing prepares you for parenthood, except the experience itself. When we see our kids struggle, it can be all consuming.

As a parent, it’s natural to want to do anything you can to help your child, spending your time and energy to help give your child the best life possible. But, I’ve also seen it’s hard to water the garden with an empty watering can. Replenishing and getting the support we need, fills us up so we have more to give our families.

I’ve worked with countless parents and know, personally and professionally, the absolute benefit of support. I’d be honored to be part of your journey. The benefit of support, life experience and tools to navigate the journey is not only an investment in your relationship with your kids, but in helping your family have a life-long relationship.

College and Career Counseling

For those who are college-aged and seeking guidance, I offer extensive experience in managing work, family, and school commitments. I am a strong believer that everyone has what it takes to be successful and live a happy and healthy life, and I cater my approach to each person’s unique needs. Whether it be a good listener, someone to talk to, setting weekly goals, I can help with it all! My main goal has been, and will continue to be, to make sure you leave your session feeling better than you came.

Another facet of counseling I can assist with is high school college and career counseling. Most high school counselors serve hundreds of students each year. While they do a fantastic job, I am here to offer more of a ‘concierge’ approach to assisting students (and parents!) with their college applications, while also communicating with their PHSC.

I can work individually on their activities portion, assist with common application essay edits and even provide scholarship recommendations. I am also happy to help generate a short list of exactly which questions to ask their PHSC when they get their allotted appointment time. I can support adults in their career exploration as well by helping to identify personal strengths, sources of motivation, barriers to these aspirations, and assist in developing an action plan to achieve these goals.

For Fun…

I have 3 daughters, 2 of whom will be at college next school year, my youngest is a high school student at New Trier. My husband and I like hanging out with our daughters and making dinners together. I enjoy playing tennis, watching women’s basketball, reading the latest book recommendations, meeting my friends for coffee and talking endless minutes on the phone with my family. I can’t wait to meet you!

To book an appointment, 847-919-9096 x.1, [email protected]