About Raquel Meneses

We’re excited to welcome Raquel Meneses as our latest therapist to join the MyLife team! She’s now available Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9am to 1pm. Learn more about Raquel below!

Raquel Meneses is a Registered Social Worker pursuing her Master of Social Work (MSW) with a specialization in Children and Families at the University of Toronto. Raquel is currently completing her practicum at MyLife Counselling under the supervision of Victoria Bonanno. She is happy to provide her services at a reduced rate to make them more accessible to the community.  

Raquel is passionate about working with adults and youth (11+) facing various challenges including emotional regulation, anxiety, behavioral difficulties, relationships, autism, challenges at school and student issues. Raquel draws from a wealth of previous experience working with children and adults through the YMCA, the Lansdowne Children’s Centre in Brantford, and as a Behaviour Associate with Barrantes & Associates Inc. in Guelph. 

When working with youth, Raquel appreciates how therapy might feel intimidating for younger clients going for their first time. Raquel meets youth where they’re at which means getting to know them as people first instead of viewing them as a set of problems. She helps her younger clients feel relaxed and welcomed every step of the way. This can include playing games, doing art, picking a favourite fidget toy, or chilling out together on the carpet.   

Raquel encourages her younger clients to create the space they need to open up and begin to find the words to express the bigger feelings that might be overwhelming them. Rather than telling them what to do, she helps them explore their options and develop the knowledge and skills to make healthy choices in their lives. This can include learning how to better regulate their emotions, communicate their needs to their caregivers, improve their self-esteem and set healthy boundaries.   

Raquel also appreciates the central role parents and caregivers play in their supporting their children’s therapy and mental health. Raquel invites caregivers to work collaboratively with her such as by providing additional resources for parents to support their kids at home, being updated about their progress, and at times being present for certain sessions. 

Outside of her professional life Raquel looks forward to spending time with friends, enjoying a good horror or sci-fi movie, travelling (especially to the Philippines), and engaging in mindful activities such as pilates and baking. 

Email: raquel.meneses@mylifecounselling.ca
Phone: 1-800-828-9484 (ext. 116)