Rachel Kehoe - Counsellor
Location: Leuven & Online
In 2023, I began a new chapter in Leuven, Belgium, arriving as a Canadian expat and trailing spouse. Over the past 18 years, my career in international education has taken me across South Korea, the UK, the Netherlands, Hong Kong, and Bangkok. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, shifted my focus towards the importance of mental health, leading me to pursue a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology though Yorkville University.
Living abroad is a journey filled with excitement—but also uncertainty. As someone who has navigated these transitions, I understand the thrill of new experiences mixed with moments of disconnection. Adjusting to unfamiliar customs, learning new languages, and being far from loved ones can feel overwhelming. These personal experiences have shaped how I approach therapy, giving me a deep understanding of the emotional ups and downs of building a life in unfamiliar places.
At the heart of my work is a belief in the power of interpersonal relationships. I work with adult individuals, couples, and children, focusing on how communication nurtures emotional well-being and healthy connections. Therapy offers a place to reflect, gain clarity, and feel genuinely supported—helping you find your own solutions in a compassionate and empathetic space.
My approach to therapy is tailored to you. I use a person-centred approach grounded in systemic theory, integrating various methods including emotionally focused therapy (EFT), interactional therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and somatic bodywork to meet your unique needs and strengths.
For children, I also offer Teddy Bear Therapy (TBT), a unique play-based therapeutic approach that empowers children by allowing them to take on a “helper” role, assisting a teddy bear with a similar problem to their own. This form of therapy is especially effective for children aged 6-10 who may be experiencing issues such as anxiety, trauma, or behavioural difficulties. Through imaginative storytelling, children are able to navigate their emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms, all within a safe and supportive space.
I offer my services in English and work with individuals, couples, and children, both in-person and online.
Qualifications:
2024: Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, Yorkville University, Canada
2015: Master of Education, Bath University, United Kingdom
2004: Post Graduate Diploma of Education, Deakin University, Australia
2003: Honours Bachelor SocSci Kinesiology, McMaster University, Canada
Further Training:
2024: ADHD Clinical Services Provider (ADHD – CCSP), Evergreen
2024: Brainspotting Phase 1, Brainspotting
2024: Polyvagal Theory, Impact Training Centre
2024: Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) Level 1 & 2, ICEEFT
2024: Interaction Pattern Analysis (IPA) Level 1, 2 & 3, Impact Training Centre
2023: Person Centred Interviewing, Impact Training Centre
2022: The Science of Wellbeing, Yale
Work History:
2024 – Present: Intern Counselling Psychologist, Satori Health Centre, Leuven, Belgium
2018 – Present: Author
I have written several middle-grade nonfiction books and articles. Notable publications include:
· 2025: “Cracking the Code: The Human Quest to Uncover Secrets,” Orca Book Publishers, Canada
· 2023: “The Trailblazing Life of Viola Desmond,” Orca Book Publishers, Canada
· Contributed several feature articles to Muse and Faces magazines, part of Cricket Media in the United States.
· Authored a range of educational books for Red Line Editorial on topics such as mental health awareness, artificial intelligence and energy innovations.
2022-2023: English Language Lecturer, Lingnan University, Hong Kong
2010-2022: Upper Elementary Teacher, Kowloon Junior School, Hong Kong.
Implemented the IBPYP curriculum, teaching a range of core subjects with a dedicated focus on enhancing social and emotional development.
2006 – 2010: Year Group Leader & Classroom Teacher, International School of the Hague, The Netherlands.
Led and taught all core subjects, emphasizing holistic development and emotional health.
Professional Associations:
Member, Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) # 11252706
