Rachel Mochizuki, AMFT (she/her)
BIO:
I’m Rachel, she/her, an associate marriage and family therapist (AMFT #151075) at Spaces Therapy, under the supervision of Kelli Penner and Ludine Pierre.
As a relational and systemic therapist, I focus on understanding the relationships and systems (e.g., family, community, and culture) that shape who you are to better support your growth. My integrative approach draws from Internal Family Systems and psychodynamic theories to explore how your relationships impact your world and how different parts of you hold your experiences, hopes, and strengths. At the heart of my work at Spaces Therapy is the belief that relational safety, trust, and connection are essential for therapeutic relationships. I bring attuned empathy, deep listening, curiosity, and a sense of grounded warmth—often with a little humor—to the space, laying the groundwork for deeper healing.
Guiding Principles:
At the heart of my work is the belief that relational safety, trust, and connection are essential for therapeutic relationships. I bring attuned empathy, deep listening, curiosity, and a sense of grounded warmth—often with a little humor—to the space. I believe the relationship we build together lays the groundwork for us to facilitate deeper healing together.
I hold a deep belief that our experiences are shaped by the many relationships and systems we move through—family, culture, community, and the broader sociopolitical landscape. In therapeutic work, I’m drawn to exploring formative attachments while also remaining aware of our intersectional systems. Cultural wisdom, family dynamics, and anti-oppressive frameworks are central to how I understand people and the contexts that impact them.
My approach is collaborative and responsive, guided by the principles of systemic social justice, feminism, and collective liberation. Because these beliefs matter deeply to me, I also recognize that I am a fellow human in this work. I am actively unlearning my own biases and staying committed to ongoing growth as part of decolonizing therapy. To further this process, I also value integrating somatic, emotional, and intuitive ways of healing because I understand that growth can happen using means beyond traditional talk therapy.
My Style of Therapy:
Authentic
I value realness and transparency! I welcome you just as you are, while also showing up as my full self. In practicing a decolonized approach to therapy, I aim to create a space grounded in mutual trust and connection, where meaningful work can unfold with honesty and care, particularly when addressing sensitive topics like anxiety in relationships.
Curious
I bring a warm sense of curiosity into the therapy space, staying open to all parts of your story without rushing to fix or explain. I ask thoughtful questions, reflect gently, and stay attuned to what might be unfolding beneath the surface, which is key for relationship therapy and deeper self-exploration.
Empathetic
Being truly seen and understood is paramount in our therapeutic work together, so I deeply care with and for you. This care may come through in the way I hold space. With gentleness and attunement, I am always seeking to sense not only what’s being shared but also how it’s being experienced, especially beneficial for those seeking anxiety therapy.
I’m Particularly Good at Working With:
Folks navigating eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns.
Couples seeking deeper understanding and intimacy through specialized Couples Therapy.
Asian and Asian-American individuals looking to process their cultural experiences, intergenerational trauma, and identity.
Individuals navigating childhood and complex trauma, including those seeking anxiety therapy related to past experiences.
Individuals interested in therapy for mothers, navigating the unique joys and challenges of parenthood.
I Hold Space For:
Chronic Illness, Women’s Issues, Relationship Concerns, Communication Skills, Cultural Matters, Anxiety, Depression, Systemic Oppression, Racial Trauma, & Spirituality
As well as: Anxiety in Relationships, Body Image, Complex Trauma, Disordered Eating, Family Dynamics, Grief, Identity Exploration, Intergenerational Trauma, LGBTQIA+, Maternal Mental Health, Self-Compassion, Stress, Therapy for Healers.
Services I Offer:
Individual Therapy
Couples Therapy
Family Therapy
Therapy Groups (Coping with Anxiety: A DBT Skills Group)
CREDENTIALS:
B.S. in Biopsychology
M.A. in Marriage and Family therapy
Certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
Location:
In office: Highland Park, Los Angeles
Virtually: California Residents
If you’re not sure what therapist you would like to work with, book a call with our care coordinator here. If you would like to work with Rachel, you can schedule a consultation call or session with her at the button below.