At Tangled Roots, we believe that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important parts of the healing process. Every therapist brings their own experiences, perspective, and style into the therapy room, and we believe it's important for you to get to know the people behind the titles and credentials.
Our Clinician Spotlight series gives you a closer look at the incredible therapists who make up the Tangled Roots team. Through these conversations, you'll learn what inspires their work, how they approach therapy, and what matters most to them as clinicians.
This week, we're excited to introduce Raya and give you a closer look at her approach to therapy, what inspires her work, and the perspective she brings to the Tangled Roots team.
Meet Raya
What inspired you to become a therapist?
What inspired me to become a therapist was seeing people close to me struggle with eating disorders, trauma, and mood disorders. I also witnessed a lack of resources for individuals seeking eating disorder treatment. I saw firsthand the financial burden placed on families when insurance companies pushed back on covering treatment. When former clients reach out to share that they are strong in their recovery and no longer engaging in harmful behaviors, it continues to motivate me to do this work.
What populations or concerns are you most passionate about working with?
I work with clients ranging in age from 14 to 50 who experience co-occurring diagnoses, including eating disorders, substance use, trauma, and mood disorders. I am also an LGBTQIA+ ally and enjoy working with diverse populations. I strive to provide culturally competent care that honors each client's unique background and experiences.
How would you describe your therapeutic style in three words?
My clients would probably describe me as a direct therapist. I provide a compassionate, collaborative, and nonjudgmental space. I approach therapy with curiosity and affirmation while also challenging clients with respect.
What do you hope clients experience when they walk into your office or log into a telehealth session?
Clients can expect a warm greeting and to feel fully seen and heard. I strive to ask thoughtful questions tailored specifically to each individual. Additionally, I want clients to feel safe, supported, and appropriately challenged throughout each session.
What is one thing you wish everyone knew about therapy?
Therapy is a collaborative space for self-exploration, personal growth, and learning to navigate life's challenges. It does not have to be used only during a crisis; therapy can also involve maintenance and preventative work. It is an opportunity to gain clarity, develop healthy coping skills for life's stressors, and improve relationships.
What does healing mean to you?
Healing means building a different relationship with past pain and experiences. It is an ongoing process of growth and self-awareness. Healing is about reclaiming your power so that past painful experiences no longer control your life.
What has being a therapist taught you about people?
Being a therapist has taught me that people's behaviors are largely shaped by their life experiences. It has also shown me that people have a tremendous capacity for resilience, courage, and change. Resilience isn't about staying silent or simply masking your way through life. It's about learning to sit with discomfort and regulate your nervous system.
What do you hope every client leaves with after working with you?
I hope every client leaves with greater clarity and a sense of feeling heard, seen, and validated. I also hope clients leave with practical tools they can use between sessions. Most importantly, I want each client to feel empowered and recognize that they have autonomy over their own lives.
Outside of being a therapist, who are you?
Whenever I travel back to Michigan, I love spending time with my two dogs. My Maltipoo is named after Mickey Mouse, my favorite Disney character, and he definitely shares many of Mickey's personality traits!
I enjoy spending time in nature, hiking, and visiting the Chicago Botanic Garden. During the winter, I occasionally enjoy skiing. I also love traveling and exploring different parts of the world. Giving back to communities is important to me, and one of my favorite experiences was participating in a mission trip to Haiti in 2017.
Thank You, Raya!
Thank you for sharing your story and allowing us, and our community, to get to know you a little better.
If you think Raya might be a good fit for you or someone you care about, we'd love to help you take the next step. Visit our Meet the Team page to learn more or contact us to schedule an appointment.
At Tangled Roots, we're committed to helping you find the therapist who feels like the right fit, because healing begins with connection.