Rachel is currently accepting new clients for September
Rachel Fernandez (she/her)
HBSc., ADMH, MACP (in progress)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Therapist Intern
Rachel works with:
Individuals (18 years+)
(905) 527 - 6337
rachel.fernandez@everwellcounselling.ca
Rachel Fernandez
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Therapist Intern
I believe that some of the most meaningful parts of therapy happen when we feel safe enough to show up as we truly are. My approach is warm, curious, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that you are the expert on your own experience.
I hope to create a space where we can slow things down and explore your experiences together. I am curious about where our patterns come from and why we respond to certain situations the way we do. I draw from person-centred, CBT, ACT, DBT, attachment-based, and trauma-informed approaches, adapting the work to what feels most helpful for each person.
My experience working with youth and families has also given me the opportunity to support individuals through family conflict, low mood, self-harm and suicidality, and periods of significant emotional distress. I enjoy helping clients better understand their emotions and patterns, build practical tools for managing difficult moments, and develop a more compassionate relationship with themselves.
Q & A with Rachel
What made you decide to choose your current profession?
“I’ve always been someone who is curious about people and the “why” behind what we do. Working in youth mental health really confirmed for me that counselling was where I wanted to be. I realized that my favourite parts of the job were building genuine connections, having deeper conversations, and getting to witness those little moments of growth that clients don’t always recognize in themselves.”
What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about mental health?
“I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to be in crisis or have everything “falling apart” before therapy is for you. Sometimes you might just feel stuck, overwhelmed, curious about yourself, or notice the same patterns showing up and want additional support.”
What do you want your clients to know about you and what it will be like working with you?
“I want clients to know that they don’t have to come to therapy knowing exactly what to say or where to start as we can figure that out together! I try to bring my authentic self into the room, and that often includes humour because I believe therapy can hold both the heavy stuff and moments of laughter. I’m warm, curious and I want you to feel like you’re talking to a real person. I’ll meet you where you’re at and also gently challenge you to unpack some deeper patterns.”
What would you like a client to say about working with you?
“I would love for a client to say that they felt like they could truly be themselves with me! With their messy thoughts, awkward moments, bad jokes and all! I hope they would say they felt understood and never judged, but also gently challenged when they needed it. Most of all, I’d want them to feel like therapy was something we did together.”
What is your biggest accomplishment to date?
“I would probably say pursuing my master’s and becoming a therapist. It’s been a long road but I’m really proud of how much I’ve grown throughout it. I’ve learned so much about myself, challenged myself in ways I didn’t expect, and am finally stepping into a career that genuinely feels like me. I think younger me would be pretty proud of where I ended up.”
What is your personal mantra?
“The rest is confetti”
Areas of Practice
Neurodivergence
Anxiety
Life Transitions
Relationship Dynamics
Self-Esteem
Emotional Regulation
LGBTQ+
Education & Memberships
Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University (in progress)
Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology, University of Toronto
Graduate Certificate, Addictions and Mental Health Counselling, Humber College
College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Average Cost
$85 / 50 minute session
Sliding scale available
Check with your insurance provider for coverage opportunities
What personal qualities are important for the job that you do?
Curiosity Empathy Patience Sense of Humour
Just for fun
What is your favourite place to find inspiration?
“Definitely my friends and family. I’m really lucky to have people in my life who inspire me in so many different ways. Whether it’s watching them go after something they want, seeing how they handle hard seasons, or just having one of those conversations that changes my perspective, I’m constantly learning from them.”
What’s your favourite thing to do on your off time?
“I love going for runs, getting cozy with some diamond art, spending time with my husband and dog, and watching a good rom-com. I’m also always down for a good coffee and a little treat!”
Do you have a favourite season?
“Summer, no question! I love the sunshine, warm weather, long days, being outside, going to concerts, and basically any excuse to be near the water.”