Rachel Perillo

MA, LCPC
(She/Her/Hers)

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Rachel aspires to guide her clients toward a deeper exploration of who they are. Whether working with individuals or couples, she helps clients discover their strengths, gently uncover the burdens and concerns they carry, and become more aware of the values, desires, and expectations that shape their lives.

About Rachel

Rachel (she/her/hers) is passionate about helping individuals and couples build healthier, more connected relationships, both with themselves and with the people they love. Drawing on extensive training in evidence-based couples approaches, she helps partners break free from negative cycles, communicate authentically, and rebuild trust and connection.

Rachel enjoys collaborating with clients, whether individuals, parents, or couples, to develop tailored coping skills and self-care strategies that empower them to navigate life's challenges and transitions with self-compassion. Well-versed in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and drawn to the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), she brings a warm, direct, and person-centered approach to her work, gently encouraging growth and meaningful change in her clients.

Education

Rachel earned her Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2009, after completing her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Psychology in 2005. With over 15+ years of experience in the mental health field, she has worked with adults and forensic populations across community mental health settings, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), and inpatient psychiatric care. She also took time away from her career to care for her young family, an experience that gave her a deeper understanding of life's evolving challenges and rewards.

Rachel is excited to bring her knowledge and experience to Thrive Postpartum, Couples, and Family Therapy, where she helps individuals and couples navigate the complexities of partnership, marriage, and family life in meaningful, transformative ways.

Certifications and Appointments

Trained in Gottman Method Levels I, II, and III, Rachel uses a research-based approach to help couples deepen their friendship, manage conflict constructively, and build lasting shared meaning.
Rachel has completed a 2-day training in the Assessment and Treatment of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), as well as an Advanced Psychotherapy Training Course through Postpartum Support International. She is currently working toward her Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) and is an active member of Postpartum Support International.
Rachel is trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), an evidence-based approach that helps couples break free from negative cycles and rebuild emotional connection and trust.
Rachel has completed Level 1 training through the Relationship Life Institute, equipping her with a direct, skills-based approach to help partners move past defensive patterns, communicate authentically, and rebuild trust after relational harm.
Rachel is currently working toward becoming a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional (CSTIP) through Evergreen Certifications, building expertise in sexual health, intimacy, and desire concerns within both individual and couples work, along with a strong foundation for recognizing when a specialized referral is needed.