About Rachel Quigley
Relational, Compassionate, Grounded
How I Work
Clients often describe me as warm, casual, grounded, and thoughtful. My approach is collaborative, and grounded in somatic therapy, which means we pay attention not only to your thoughts, but also to your body and nervous system.
Many of the challenges people experience—anxiety, overwhelm, perfectionism, or the lingering effects of trauma—aren't just held in the mind. They can also be reflected in patterns of the nervous system. Together, we'll slow down enough to notice what's happening beneath the surface and create opportunities for lasting change.
Whether you're interested in a more body-centered approach or prefer a traditional talk individual therapy experience, I tailor our work to fit your needs and comfort level.
My Philosophy
I don't see symptoms such as anxiety, perfectionism, or emotional overwhelm as signs that something is wrong with you. More often, they're understandable adaptations shaped by life experiences, relationships, and the ways we've learned to cope.
Therapy becomes less about fixing yourself—and more about understanding yourself with curiosity and compassion.
Creating a Safe Space
I believe therapy is most effective when people feel emotionally safe, genuinely seen, and free to show up as their authentic selves.
I strive to create an affirming, inclusive space where people across identities, cultures, genders, sexual orientations, belief systems, and relationship structures feel respected, supported, and free to show up authentically.
My Background
Growing up in the mountains of Wyoming and eventually attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, I developed a lasting appreciation for nature and the ways our environments shape how we feel.
My background in ballet and modern dance first introduced me to the connection between body and mind—a perspective that eventually led me to earn my MA in Somatic Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco.
Over the past decade and a half, I've worked in grief clinics, schools, community mental health, and private practice, supporting adults and families through anxiety, trauma, grief, and life transitions.
Who I Work With
I work with adults navigating:
Anxiety and chronic stress
Trauma and difficult past experiences
Life transitions and periods of change
A sense of disconnection from self or body
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, capable, and high-functioning on the outside—but internally feel overwhelmed, tense, or stuck.
A Bit More About Me
Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy practicing yoga (see more about the collaboration between therapy and yoga here), hiking, and spending time along the Central Coast—movement and being in nature are ways I practice the same slowing down and self-awareness I encourage in therapy.
Wondering if We’re a good fit?
The next step is a free consultation call where we can talk about what’s bringing you in and see if working together feels like a good fit.
If I’m not the right fit, I’ll provide some referrals. No pressure, just a conversation!