Meet the therapist who’s here for you.
Rachael Mecholsky Pelikan
Therapist & Art Therapist | Addictions Counselor | Eating Disorder Specialist
Everyone deserves a space where they feel safe, seen, and supported while doing the hard work of healing. My approach is grounded in the belief that lasting change happens through connection, curiosity, and compassion.
I work with children (4+), teens, young adults, and adults, with specialized focus in eating disorders/disordered eating, trauma recovery, anxiety, and identity exploration. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin, my goal is to help you feel understood and confident in your ability to heal and grow.
My style is authentic, warm, and direct once trust is established. I bring humor, realness, and a collaborative spirit into therapy — clients often share that they feel comfortable, supported, and “able to be themselves” with me. I value bringing in families when working with younger clients, because healing often strengthens everyone involved.
I use EMDR, trauma-informed approaches, creative art-based therapy, and addiction certified treatment. Treatment is always individualized — we work together to find what best fits your needs, strengths, and goals.
My passion for this work comes not just from training, but also lived experience. Navigating my own journey with anxiety, disordered eating, and growing up in a blended family shaped the way I show up: with empathy, openness, and deep respect for every client’s path. I believe every person has the capacity to heal — and no one should have to do it alone.
LPC, LCADC, LPAT, ATR-BC, CCTP
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LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor)
LCADC (Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor)
LPAT (Licensed Professional Art Therapist)
ATR-BC (Board Certified Registered Art Therapist)
CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional)
EMDR Certified (EMDRIA Approved)
CEDS (Certified Eating Disorder Specialist) in Training
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The George Washington University, Master of Arts (MA) in Art Therapy & Mental Health Counseling
Temple University, Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fibers & Material Studies with Art History Minor
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GIA: Institute of Psychotherapy, Group Private Practice
Recovery Centers of America, Inpatient Substance Abuse Treatment
Dominion Hospital, Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital
The George Washington University, Art Therapy Trauma Clinic
CREATE Arts Center, Adult Group Art Therapy & Childhood After-School Program
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Podcast: Through Thick and Thin: Discussions about Disordered Eating
Publication: Integrating Art Therapy with Feminism for Self-Advocacy through Storycloth, Art Therapy : Journal of the American Art Therapy Association
Get to know me better…
I’m an animal lover and proud dog-mom — I also volunteer regularly at a local animal shelter. If there’s a pup nearby, I’m probably talking to it.
I’ve been lucky enough to travel to over 20 countries, and I love learning about different cultures and ways of living.
I like to describe myself as an “extroverted introvert.” I value deep connection, but I also recharge by cozying up on the couch with my husband and our dogs after a full day of sessions.
I’m always hydrated… and caffeinated. It’s very possible I’ll come to session with three beverages at once.
Humor is one of my favorite tools in therapy — expect gentle sarcasm, dry jokes, and the occasional laugh in the middle of hard work.
I’m a certified 200-hour yoga instructor and also love CrossFit — mind-body strength and movement are big parts of my life and my approach to wellness.
Emotional Support Sidekick & Courage Coach
Tink is a rescue dog with a resilient spirit and a big heart.
Before joining our practice, she had a traumatic start to life — and now she channels her healing journey into supporting others on theirs.
She loves greeting clients with tail wags and enthusiasm, especially if butt scratches are involved. While she brings a calm, grounding presence, she also has a playful and energetic side, especially with kids, reminding us that healing holds room for both softness and joy.
Favorite things: gentle pets, bursts of zoomies, and celebrating brave moments.
Superpower: sensing when someone needs comfort (or a happy distraction).
Tink
Junior Comfort Ambassador
in Training
Dixie is our newest rescue and is happily learning the ropes of therapy life.
She’s playful, curious, and still figuring out what her “job” is — but she already excels at offering cuddles, kisses, and a whole lot of heart. She also loves playfully pestering her big sister, Tink, who takes her role as mentor very seriously.
Favorite things: toys, treats, and making new friends.
Superpower: spreading joy and reminding us that growth is a process — and sometimes a very wiggly one.
Dixie
Our dogs are registered and insured emotional support animals and obedience-trained rescues. Most of our clients find the pups comforting and supportive, but we can also have a dog-free space designated just for humans. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns about the dogs’ presence in our office.