Rachael Washington, MA

Clinical Psychology Intern

Hi, I’m Rachael. I am currently studying Counseling Psychology and completing my internship at The Current Therapy Services. As a counseling psychologist-in-training, I am thrilled to spend this next part of my training with this group of people and hope the work I do creates a long-lasting impact on those who come through my door. I received my masters in Sport and Performance Psychology from The University of Denver where I worked primarily with athletes and performers on identifying and applying psychological skills to enhance performance and negotiating the ever evolving  life-sport “balance.” I also enjoy working with individuals navigating life transitions particularly: in and out sport and/or performance, out of college, going into new work roles, and adapting to new environments.  

My decision to pursue a doctorate in counseling psychology stems from the value I find in the strengths that individuals possess and carry on alongside the challenges and difficulties an environment can have at any given moment. I believe the notion that everyone has a purpose and at times we all need help connecting and finding that purpose in order to find alignment with our values. I believe in a N=1 approach, meaning your identity and experiences are unique to you and should be treated as such. Living authentically and in harmony with my identities, relationships, and environments is something I value for myself and I have found a passion in aiding others in finding this alignment as well. 

Clinically, I am drawn to theories that place emphasis on values and purpose as well as the influence of an individual's environment. My clinical interests consist of multicultural-based and mindfulness-based approaches especially as they relate to women, athletes, people of color, those experiencing disordered eating, and body image and acceptance. I have adapted the idea that change occurs when there is a shift in values within an individual's environment and the way someone is socialized.

During my time at The Current, I will be training in Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as an approach to treat the Overcontrolled biotemperament which is commonly experienced by athletes and those who struggle with eating disorders and furthering my specialization in treating eating disorders. Under the supervision of Kelsey Esser, MSW, I will hone my already formed skills and add new skills in this exciting, ever growing field. 

Advocacy, humility, and authenticity are my personal pillars for practice. This process is a collaboration and a journey that I would be honored to go on with you. You are the expert of your life and I am here to act as a vessel for you to gain awareness, develop skills and tools, self discover, and take pride in your truth.