Intro
Hi, I'm Racheal Ilgner, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I've been working as a therapist for the past six years and have spent more than a decade serving individuals and families throughout the social service field. I'm naturally energetic, bubbly, and down to earth, and I want every person who sits across from me to feel like they're talking with someone who truly sees them, not someone who's there to judge them. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship challenges, major life transitions, chronic illness, caregiving responsibilities, or simply feeling stuck, I believe we all deserve a place where we can slow down, process our experiences, and rediscover our strengths.
How would you describe your approach to care?
I believe therapy is a collaboration. You are the expert on your life, and my role is to walk alongside you while helping you make sense of the pieces that may feel confusing, overwhelming, or disconnected. My style is person-centered and eclectic because I don't believe healing comes from forcing every client into one approach. Sometimes our work looks like processing difficult emotions. Sometimes it means learning practical coping skills. Other times it may simply mean having someone hold space for you during a season when life feels especially heavy. Above all, I want therapy to feel empowering. My hope is that you leave each session feeling a little more connected to yourself, a little more confident in your abilities, and reminded that growth doesn't require perfection.
What should be expected in the first session?
The first session is all about getting to know you. We'll talk about what's bringing you to therapy, what's been weighing on you, what strengths you've already developed, and what you hope life will look like as therapy progresses. There's no pressure to tell me everything at once. We'll move at a pace that feels comfortable for you. My priority is making sure you leave that first session feeling heard, understood, and hopeful that we're building a partnership focused on helping you reach your goals. I believe healing happens through authentic connection. My promise is to meet you with compassion, curiosity, and honesty as we work together to help you become the healthiest, most fulfilled version of yourself.
More info
Master of Social Work
Touro College
Bachelor of Arts
York College of the City University of New York
