Counselor Spotlight: Rachel
Rachel Schwindt, LAC discusses Philadelphia, hearing peoples’ stories, and her grandmother’s best recipe.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
2022 has been a big year for me: I got married, moved back to New Jersey, and started working here at CCCRD! After living in Philadelphia for about 6 years, it feels great to be back in my home state and living closer to my family. As an only child, my parents and I are quite close and I try to spend time with them as often as I can. After high school, I went to Messiah College for my undergrad and after working for a few years, decided to go back to school to pursue a master’s in counseling psychology from Eastern University.
What was your journey to becoming a counselor?
I have always been drawn to stories, and originally the plan was to use my English degree in that capacity, working at a hospital as an editorial assistant, but God had other plans. In my role as an editorial assistant, it was my job to interview cancer patients and share their stories on our blog. As I sat with patient after patient, it became clear that what I was most passionate about was learning about each individual's story. I found that as each patient shared their story, they felt empowered and helped through the interview. I knew I had to find a way to make this my full-time profession, and through the grace of God, I was led to pursue my MA in counseling psychology. Now as a therapist I get to do what I love, learning about the story of each client’s life, and walking alongside them as they seek to grow and change.
What do you do for fun?
I love being active and try to get to the gym a few times a week, or if not, go for a hike or walk outside if the weather is nice. I also enjoy spending time in Philadelphia, checking out a new restaurant or reading a book in a coffee shop. But mostly, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and close friends.
What elements of counseling are you most passionate about?
I’m most passionate about the moments during therapy when my client gains new insight. It’s so cool to see something “click” for one of my clients. Whether it’s them seeing something from a new perspective, recognizing unhealthy patterns, or making a connection between their past and present circumstances—I love those moments because, for me, it’s the start of their growth and empowerment to change.
Describe your approach to counseling.
I remember in grad school, one of my professors showed us a pie chart labeled “Factors Contributing to Success in Psychotherapy.” One of the biggest factors on that chart was the relationship between the client and therapist. I think it made up 30 percent. And now as a practicing therapist, I see the truth in that chart. My approach to counseling is relational. I believe that developing a strong therapeutic alliance with clients is my first and most important goal, as I believe it’s the relationship itself that creates the space for clients to change and grow. Building a relationship of trust and mutual respect allows for the client to feel safe and willing to share, which is crucial to the success of the counseling.
In your staff profile, you wrote that you hope clients “gain deeper insight into who God created them to be.” What are some things clients need to know to do this?
I believe that God created us on purpose for a purpose. Many times, however, our purpose becomes hidden or clouded due to different factors and circumstances. Gaining insight into who God created us to be helps us conform ourselves more and more into the image of Christ. In turn, this helps us see ourselves and our purpose more clearly.
What’s a unique “hill you will die on?”
Central New Jersey does, in fact, exist!
What is your perfect meal?
My mom-mom’s spaghetti and clams. Every time I eat that, I think of her.