Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Ochieng.
Hi Rachel, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I am an immigrant from Nigeria who came to the United States as an adult, barely knowing myself or what I wanted out of life. However, the various challenges I encountered along the way led me to where I am today, working in the mental health field. I often say that I did not choose counseling; counseling chose me.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and I currently provide services virtually. As a Christian, I have always felt a deep burden for the need for mental health services within the Church. While working in the secular world, the practice I am a part of allows me to provide Christian counseling to clients who are seeking faith-based support. Even so, I continued to feel a strong pull to venture out and start something of my own.
At the end of 2024, I began that journey. Although I felt fearful, I stepped forward in faith, trusting the God who I believed had called me to this work. Establishing Elroi’s Place Counseling Associates, LLC was an act of obedience. It is a small business that is still growing, and I am enjoying every moment of the journey.
I am excited to see what God will continue to do through this practice as it grows and serves others.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey has definitely not been a completely smooth road. Starting anything new comes with challenges and launching a business when you are still learning how everything works can be intimidating. When I first began this journey, there was a lot of uncertainty. Even now, as I run the practice part-time with the hope of eventually transitioning to it full-time, there are moments when I wonder if I am doing everything the right way.
One of the biggest challenges has been balancing the clinical work I love with the responsibilities of running a business. As a counselor, my passion is helping people, but owning a practice also means managing the administrative side, things like maintaining a steady caseload, handling paperwork, and learning the business aspects that no one really teaches you in counseling training.
At times, that can feel overwhelming. However, I have learned to lean into the process and give myself permission to grow along the way. Thankfully, there are many tools, platforms, and resources available today that make running a practice more manageable.
Despite the challenges, the journey has been incredibly rewarding. The ability to build something of my own, serve others in a meaningful way, and walk in what I believe God has called me to do makes every challenge worth it.
We’ve been impressed with Elroi’s Place Counseling Associates, LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business is Elroi’s Place Counseling Associates, LLC, a counseling practice dedicated to providing compassionate, culturally sensitive mental health care. The name “Elroi” comes from the biblical meaning “the God who sees me,” which reflects the heart of the practice, creating a space where individuals feel truly seen, heard, and supported.
I provide virtual counseling services to individuals in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, helping clients navigate life transitions, emotional challenges, and personal growth. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where people can openly process their experiences and work toward healing.
One thing that sets my practice apart is the option for faith-integrated counseling for those who want to include their Christian faith as part of their healing journey. I am particularly passionate about addressing the need for mental health support within the Christian community while serving individuals from diverse backgrounds.
What I am most proud of is that Elroi’s Place was built from a deep sense of calling and obedience. My hope is that readers know it is a place where compassion, faith, and professional care come together to support true healing.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice would be simple: just start. It’s okay to feel afraid, do it afraid. Starting something new can feel overwhelming, especially when you feel like you don’t have all the answers. But the truth is, you don’t have to know everything before you begin.
Be open to learning along the way. Growth often happens through the process, through trial and error, and through seeking out resources and support when you need it. If you wait until everything feels perfectly planned or completely figured out, you may never take the first step.
One thing I have learned is that starting is often the hardest part. Once you take that step, you begin to gain the experience, knowledge, and confidence that you need to continue moving forward.
So, my biggest advice is to trust the process, stay open to learning, and don’t let fear keep you from pursuing what you feel called to do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elroisplacecounseling.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elroisplacecounselingllc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Elrois-Place-Counseling-Associates-LLC/61580619055455/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-ochieng-b5a141383/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElroisPlaceCounseling
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rachel-A.-Ochieng/author/B07Q6JTJLB?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOUlSSUtGVmF3MDAzdGxWU3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4qgTnexzXvQsbiOqnuocaYuzzUtJ3XJWC7p_s2W1j9FjtQomXZx0YgEQpltg_aem_Ka7oplQWeIoe6h1xDWtJmw&ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=fff7ae2f-1d6d-40a1-ac0a-884eb41eea28
