Rachel Hillegass,
LCSW
LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER · 20+ YEARS EXPERIENCE · FLORIDA
LICENSED THERAPIST
Experienced Therapist
Here to Help You
Navigate Life's Challenges.
Did a major life event leave you feeling lost or overwhelmed? Hello, I'm Rachel — therapist, compassionate listener, skilled problem-solver, and a genuine people-person who loves connecting with others.
I enjoy helping individuals navigate life's hurdles, whether it's the transition to college, the challenges of empty nesting, career changes, the loss of a loved one, or the grief of unmet expectations. I'm here to support you on your journey toward peace and self-discovery.
I am a firm believer that the therapeutic relationship is key to successful outcomes. I work collaboratively with each individual to assess their needs and tailor our approach accordingly.
LIFE TRANSITIONS
EMPTY NESTING
CAREER CHANGES
COUPLES (EVENINGS)
COLLEGE TRANSITIONS
GRIEF & LOSS
ANXIETY
CANCER SUPPORT
IDENTITY SHIFTS
20+
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
FL
LICENSED IN
Evenings
COUPLES SESSIONS AVAILABLE
A PERSONAL NOTE
Breast Cancer
Survivor
In addition to my professional experience, I bring a deeply personal understanding of the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis. As a breast cancer survivor, this experience allows me to connect with individuals in a unique and meaningful way as they navigate the fear, uncertainty, and life changes that often accompany diagnosis and treatment.
I offer a supportive space to process the wide range of emotions that can arise — including anxiety, grief, identity shifts, and the challenges of adjusting to a "new normal." Whether you are newly diagnosed, in treatment, or in survivorship, I work alongside you to help build coping strategies, foster resilience, and support your emotional healing every step of the way.
"I work alongside you to help build coping strategies, foster resilience, and support your emotional healing every step of the way."
🎗 BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR
THERAPEUTIC
How Rachel works
with clients
Motivational Interviewing
A collaborative, goal-oriented approach that strengthens your own motivation and commitment to change — meeting you where you are without judgment.
Radically Open DBT
RO-DBT addresses the challenges of over-control — helping those who are highly self-critical, perfectionistic, or socially isolated find greater openness and connection.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Practical, structured tools to identify unhelpful thought patterns and replace them with perspectives that support your wellbeing and goals.
Collaborative & Personalized
Drawing from multiple modalities, Rachel creates a personalized plan for each individual — empowering you through positivity and lightheartedness toward lasting change.
BACKGROUND
Experience & Education
With over two decades of clinical experience across hospital, justice, and counseling settings, Rachel brings a depth and breadth of perspective to every client relationship.
CLINICAL TRAINING
Wolfson Children's Hospital & Ascension Hospital
Supported patients and families during really difficult moments in the hospital setting — offering emotional support and helping them navigate complex care situations with compassion and clarity.
MENTAL HEALTH
Dept. of Juvenile Justice
Provided support to at-risk and foster care youth by building strong, trusting relationships and helping them develop healthier thinking and coping skills — while simultaneously giving them a safe, stable environment to grow and heal.
PRIVATE PRACTICE
End-of-Life & Grief Counseling
Walked alongside individuals and families through some of life's most profound transitions — providing compassionate, steady support during loss, anticipatory grief, and bereavement.
EDUCATION
M.S.W. in Social Work
Combined with a B.S. from the University of North Florida in Criminology — a foundation that informs Rachel's understanding of systemic factors, individual resilience, and therapeutic change.
"My goal is to help you find peace and feel proud of your accomplishments. You don't have to face this alone — let's take this important step together."
— RACHEL HILLEGASS, LCSW
OUTSIDE THE OFFICE
The person behind
the therapist
Outside of my work as a therapist, my most important roles are being a mom and a wife. Life at home is often busy and full, with my kids keeping me on the go — but I truly wouldn't have it any other way.
Many of our weekends are spent on the sidelines of lacrosse and flag football games, cheering them on and soaking in those moments together.
I also find a lot of peace and restoration in nature. The beach is one of my favorite places, where the salt air and ocean have a way of bringing a sense of calm and healing. In my free time, I enjoy camping, biking, and traveling — anything that allows me to connect, recharge, and be present with the people I love.
🏖 BEACH LIFE
⛺ CAMPING
🚴 BIKING
✈️ TRAVELING
🏈 SIDELINE MOM
🌿 NATURE
NEW AVAILABILITY
Now providing couples therapy
in the evenings for your convenience.
READY TO BEGIN?
Taking the first step
is the hardest part.
You've already done it by being here. Let's have a conversation — no commitment, no pressure. Just a chance to see if we're the right fit for your journey.
Or Call: 904.834.0529