Rao Counseling PLLC

Hi, I’m Charlie Rao, a Licensed Professional Counselor and founder of Rao Counseling PLLC. I offer a warm, thoughtful space for teens and adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, burned out, or in transition.

My approach is collaborative and culturally aware, grounded in both reflection and practical support. I often work with anxiety, depression, caregiver stress, life transitions, and the emotional weight of cultural or personal expectations.

My work is shaped by a holistic perspective, informed by clinical training, lived understanding, and a background in the biological sciences. This allows me to consider the emotional, psychological, and physiological aspects of well-being together. I also value psychoeducation as part of the process, helping clients better understand what’s happening in their mind and body so they can feel more informed, empowered, and grounded in their care.

My background includes behavioral health, hospital-based work in acute stabilization settings, teaching, community outreach, and caregiving—experiences that continue to shape how I show up in the therapy room: with care, curiosity, and respect.

I see part of my role as being an advocate for my clients and can help navigate next steps when needed, including connecting to higher levels of care—such as more structured support or hospitalization—and collaborating with trusted psychiatrists for additional support.

If you’re reading this and something in your life feels uncertain or undone, take a breath. This too is part of the unfolding — not a sign that you’ve failed, but that you’re alive, and life is still teaching you how to flow.

(Charlie Rao, MS, LPC, #91345)