Reproductive Psychotherapist

Grace Rao, LCSW

Grace Rao, LCSW

It is a deep joy of mine to translate the science of the brain, human development, and caregiving in a way that helps release people from judgement. Wherever you find yourself on the pregnancy or parenting journey, I would be honored to connect with you and understand your story.

The peripartum journey brings with it change, loss, and unknowns that can leave us vulnerable to emotional, relational, and spiritual suffering. To address these challenges, my clinical work is grounded in interpersonal neurobiology as well as polyvagal and attachment theories. From this framework and understanding we can bring in techniques from cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and narrative approaches to meet your goals.

I graduated with my Master’s of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas in August 2020 and have 5 years of experience working with kids, teens, parents, and families. This includes a clinical field internship at Dell Children’s Hospital where I supported parents whose infants were born with congenital heart disease.  Additionally, in my clinical field internship at the Austin Child Guidance Center, I partnered with parents to understand their childrens’ behavior and build lasting parent-child bonds. It was through these relationships that my interest in and tenderness for the peripartum and parenting experience grew.

 

As a clinician, my goal in the therapy room is to create an environment that centers on two values: connection and humility.

 

Connection.  Connection to your brain, nervous system, and self. Connection to your baby, your partner, your family. Connection to your community.  Connection to your loss. And our connection with each other. I love how science of connection teaches us to unlock and learn from the uncomfortable parts of life and relationships. The beauty of the brain is that we can create new connections in the face of threat and disconnection, and thereby find hope for healing, change, and growth.

Humility.  Not a word typically associated with the pressure to hustle, be productive, and appear as though you have it all together in Austin, Texas. My hope is that you will feel free to slow down, reflect, and learn just as you are: your quirks, past, vulnerabilities and all.  

I am honored to work alongside the talented clinicians at RPC in supporting individuals and families impacted by the peripartum and parenting experience.


Education, Training and Professional Memberships

Education 

  • MSSW, Master of Science in Social Work, The University of Texas at Austin 

Professional Membership 

  • National Association of Social Workers 

Established Psychiatry Patients

Current established psychiatry patients can schedule their own appointments through charm.