Meet Rachel Arledge
M.Ed., LCMHC
Supporting Children, Teenagers, and Emerging Adults in North Carolina
It’s my privilege to walk with you while you learn to run.
Give it 3 sessions. The first feels weird, the second might still feel uncomfortable, but by the third, you’ll know if it’s a good fit. If not, it’s okay to try someone new!
You have a life to live, let me help you get living.
Hi, I’m Rachel
I strive to provide a space where you can be open with yourself and create an environment where honesty is not a judgement, but the path to healing and growth.
Growing up I saw how poor communication and boundaries could negatively impact people and their ability to live their most amazing lives. I have always loved working with young people and their families in learning how to communicate with others. I have often said that young people speak Elvish and parents speak Klingon, they aren’t even in the same universe. I have found, through my many years as a therapist, that my job is to be your own personal Google Translate and help you learn to hear the other side while still being heard and validated.
Meet Eli, Rachel’s In-Training Therapy Dog
Eli is my lovable therapy dog-in-training, here to help make your sessions feel a little more relaxed—and a lot more joyful. With a wagging tail and a heart full of love, Eli’s mission is simple: to create a calming, welcoming environment (belly rubs and back scratches encouraged!).
Since he was just 3 months old, Eli has been training with No Limits Dog Training and is now preparing for his formal Animal-Assisted Therapy certification. He takes his job seriously... unless he’s off-duty, romping around with his big brother or enjoying his favorite snack—a Pup Cup from Port City Java and a bite of mom’s cheese stick.
A proud Wilmington native, Eli is always happy to greet you with a smile (and maybe a few kisses). He’s here to support your healing journey—one tail wag at a time.
My Approach
As your therapist, I bring honesty, directness, acceptance, and empathy into our work together, creating a space where you can feel supported, challenged, and truly seen. A client once compared me to the Hulk because “sometimes you have to smash through the tough stuff to rebuild something stronger.” My specialties include helping individuals navigate behavioral issues, family conflict and communication struggles, LGBTQ+ concerns, trans and gender non-conforming journeys, and the complex, everyday realities of those just trying to make it through—what I lovingly refer to as “living on the struggle bus.” I have a strong background in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and I integrate those skills to help clients build emotional resilience, navigate relationships, and create meaningful change.
Education & Credentials
NC LCMHC License #: 13744
Master of Counseling: The University of Montevallo