Rachel Ricchiuto-Hovanetz, LPC

Pronouns: She/Her

Working with Young Adults:

Many of the young adults I work with have faced difficult academic or social experiences. They may be feeling out of place, unsure of where they belong, or questioning whether things will ever get better. These challenges often come with feelings of anxiety, depression, or hesitation about trying something new. I recognize that identity development is central during this stage of life, and I deeply respect the autonomy of those who are still figuring things out. My goal is to create a space where clients feel supported and empowered, where your choices are honored and your voice matters.

Working with Adults:

In addition to working with teens and young adults, I also enjoy supporting adults who are navigating the complexities of everyday life, whether that means juggling parenting, career transitions, relationship changes, grief, or simply a desire to reconnect with themselves. Many of my adult clients come to therapy feeling burned out, stuck, or unsure of their next step. Together, we create a space to slow down and explore what matters most. My goal is to offer the clarity and encouragement needed to move forward with greater self-compassion, perspective, and purpose.

Working with Children:

I also work with young children, helping them and their families navigate early emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. Through play-based interventions, age-appropriate coping strategies, and collaboration with caregivers, I strive to create a safe and nurturing environment where kids can express themselves, build emotional awareness, and grow their sense of self. Whether a child is struggling with anxiety, emotional regulation, family transitions, or just needs support making sense of big feelings, my goal is to meet them with patience, creativity, and care. This work is a team effort to ensure that growth in the therapy room carries over into everyday life.

My Approach to Counseling:

My approach blends CBT and DBT-based skills to help clients quiet their inner critic, build emotional resilience, and develop the confidence to keep going, even when things feel hard. Together, we draw insight from the past while practicing mindfulness in the present, helping you discover a more grounded, authentic version of yourself, one that feels hopeful and capable of change.

About Me: 

My path to counseling began as a Registered Behavior Technician working with children on the autism spectrum. That early experience ignited a passion for supporting people who feel overwhelmed or unseen. Since then, I’ve spent much of my career in college counseling settings, walking alongside students as they navigate challenges and transitions.

I earned my B.S. in Psychology from the University of Mount Union, where I explored my creativity through the arts and sang in the women’s choir, Cantus Femina. I went on to complete my M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at John Carroll University, where I served as a Graduate Assistant in Student Disability Services and was inducted into the Jesuit Honor Society, Alpha Sigma Nu.

I’m always learning through reading, ongoing training, and listening deeply to my clients lived experiences. I believe in meeting people exactly where they are and working with them at their own pace.

Wherever you are on your journey, I’d be honored to support you as you move forward.

 

Rachel is practicing under the supervision of Hayley Whitman, LPC-S, IMFT-S.