Meet the Team

Rob Riechel, LMHC-D

Founder/Primary Therapist

Hey there! I'm Rob Riechel.

I’m a licensed Psychotherapist dedicated to creating a safe, authentic, and collaborative space for your mental well-being journey. I believe therapy works best when you can show up as your true self—no pretenses, no judgment, just genuine human connection.

Whether you're an individual navigating life's unexpected twists, a couple seeking to strengthen your bond, or a teen or adult exploring personal growth, I've got your back. My approach is down-to-earth, practical, and deeply rooted in clinical expertise. Together, we’ll challenge the patterns that no longer serve you and build a narrative toward a more relaxed, fulfilled you.

Clinical Expertise & Leadership

My career spans multiple tiers of treatment and diverse populations across the continuum of care, allowing me to meet you exactly where you are:

  • Eating Disorder Specialization: As the Clinical Director of the Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) at The Healing Connection, I oversee and provide specialized, high-level care for eating disorders.

  • Continuum of Care: My background includes extensive experience in a Residential Level of Care (RLOC), giving me a deep understanding of the structured support needed for sustainable recovery.

  • School & Academic Settings: Having worked within the Rochester City School District and various College Settings, I am uniquely equipped to help teens and young adults navigate academic, social, and developmental pressures.

Beyond the Therapy Room

I am passionate about systemic growth and mental health advocacy, bringing a specialized skill set that includes:

  • Program Building & Management: Developing and structuring high-quality clinical programs.

  • Workshops & Continuing Education: Training and facilitating professional development for fellow clinicians.

  • Community Outreach & Advocacy: Working to break down barriers to care and reduce stigma within the community.

How We'll Work Together

I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. I combine high-level clinical expertise and program-level insight with a real, human touch. We will look at the whole picture—your environment, your history, and your daily realities—to help you find grounding and lasting healing.

If you're ready to rewrite your story, let’s get to work.

Sarah Shouse, LMHC

Primary Therapist

Hi, I’m Sarah. I’m deeply passionate about mental health advocacy and supporting children’s social-emotional growth. Outside of my work, I enjoy spending time in nature, exploring music and art, and writing poetry—creative outlets that also inspire my therapeutic approach. My journey into counseling began from a personal place: growing up, I often wished I had someone to guide and support me in the way I now strive to support others. That experience continues to motivate me to help children, adolescents, and families create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

I hold a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from University of Rochester and a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management and Services from Alfred State College. Over the past 10+ years, I have gained extensive professional and freelance experience working with children and adolescents ranging from 3 months to 18 years old.

My background includes work within daycare settings, school districts, and outpatient mental health services, where I have served as a mental health counselor, teacher assistant, and after-school aide. In my practice, I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where children and teens feel heard, understood, and empowered. I believe therapy can offer not only emotional support, but also a creative outlet, mentorship, advocacy, and opportunities for personal growth.

I value each child’s unique perspective and imagination, and I incorporate approaches such as play therapy and talk therapy to meet clients where they are developmentally and emotionally. My work is grounded in kindness, empathy, inclusion, and understanding.

I currently serve as a Primary Therapist as well as the School & Community Outreach Coordinator at The Healing Connection.

I completed counseling internships within the Sodus and Rochester City School Districts, as well as with Delphi Rise.