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RACHAEL ZIMMERMAN

Available Online or in Person
About Me
I grew up in a large, blended family just outside Denver, not far from Relate Family Therapy, and have always loved calling Colorado home—especially for its beautiful mountains and strong sense of community. School was at times challenging for me as I worked through dyslexia. After high school, I moved to Florida for college, where I played Division I lacrosse. Later, I relocated to Maui, Hawaii, where I owned and operated a professional photography business for five years. After surviving a wildfire on Maui and losing my home, I felt called to return to Colorado to be closer to family and reconnect with my roots.
In my free time I love spending time with my partner and our two dogs, whether we’re relaxing at home or exploring the outdoors. I enjoy biking, skiing, hiking, swimming, camping, and learning new sports like tennis and pickleball. I also love reading, watching comedy movies, and spending time in nature. As a professional photographer, I’m rarely without my camera—capturing moments and connections is something that continues to inspire me both personally and professionally.
Fun fact: I’ve photographed the world’s best surfers, skiers, snowboarders and the US Women’s National Soccer team!
My Background
I began my career working with children, and during that time my interest in photography grew into a self-taught passion. Eventually I built a professional career photographing family, couples, professional athletes, and well-known brands. These experiences taught me patience, communication, and the value of connection—lessons that guide my work as a relational therapist today.
I work with children, teens, young adults, couples and families. My experience working with kids spans a variety of settings—from directing a summer day camp for ages 5–12, coaching varsity lacrosse and a ski team, to private nannying. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of developmental needs, communication, and relationship dynamics. I also enjoy supporting families and couples in strengthening their connections, navigating challenges, and building resilience.
My Approach
I take a strengths-based approach in session, prioritizing building rapport and creating a safe, collaborative space where clients feel seen and supported. From there, I use a variety of evidence-based modalities tailored to each client’s needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, and the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples. My additional training in systems theory and relational approaches allows me to help clients build coping skills, improve communication, explore personal stories, and strengthen relationships in meaningful ways.
A therapy session with me is collaborative and tailored to each client’s needs. For children and teens, I often use play therapy, art, and movement-based activities to help them express feelings, explore relationships, and process experiences in a natural and engaging way. With adults and couples, sessions may include guided conversations, mindfulness exercises, and reflective activities to deepen awareness, improve communication, and strengthen connections.
I hope that every client who comes into a session with me leaves feeling heard, seen, and empowered. I’m especially passionate about helping individuals, families, and couples build resilience, improve communication, and gain confidence in handling life’s ups and downs. Above all, I strive to create a space grounded in compassion, authenticity, and respect—where clients feel safe to explore, grow, and thrive.

