Community Highlights: Meet Racheal Turner of Turning Point Counseling

Today we’d like to introduce you to Racheal Turner.

Hi Racheal, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey into the world of therapy has been deeply personal and profoundly transformative, shaped by a lifetime of helping and a passion that was ignited in childhood. As a young girl, I was the helper in my family—the one who eagerly stepped in to support my brother Nathan, who has autism, and my grandpa, who struggled with MS. From an early age, I was captivated by the power of therapy. I remember sitting in on my brother’s therapy sessions, watching in awe as his therapists guided him toward progress and growth. Even then, I knew this was the path I was meant to follow.

When I moved to Arizona for college, I was determined to turn this passion into a career. I earned my undergraduate degree in child development and psychology, then dove straight into a master’s program at Grand Canyon University. Throughout my studies, I sought out opportunities to deepen my understanding and broaden my skills. One of the most rewarding experiences was working at Hunkapi Farms in Scottsdale, where I facilitated group equine therapy. There, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that therapy—paired with the natural, calming presence of horses—could have on children struggling with anxiety and self-doubt. Seeing these young people grow in self-awareness, confidence, and trust was nothing short of incredible.

But my journey wasn’t without its challenges. While pursuing my master’s degree, I worked as a parent aide—a role that pushed me to my limits and tested my resilience. Overseeing supervised visits between children and their parents in emotionally charged situations was the hardest job I’ve ever had. Yet, it taught me invaluable lessons about empathy, perseverance, and the complex nature of human relationships, shaping me into the therapist I am today.

In 2020, after gaining valuable experience at a private practice in Scottsdale, I knew it was time to take a leap of faith. I founded Turning Point Counseling with a clear vision: to create a sanctuary where individuals could heal, understand themselves on a deeper level, and confront the root causes of their pain. I wanted to build a practice where therapy wasn’t just about treating symptoms but fostering true, lasting change. I’m beyond grateful for the unwavering support of my family, and especially for Erick O’Brien. Erick, your belief in me, even when I doubted myself, gave me the courage to make this dream a reality. Thank you for always being my biggest fan.

At Turning Point Counseling, we pride ourselves on being more than just therapists—we are partners in your journey. Each member of our team brings their own story, experiences, and commitment to helping clients find their way forward. We believe therapy is about connection—about finding a therapist who truly ‘gets’ you, understands your struggles, and helps you navigate life’s complexities with compassion and expertise.

When you step into our practice, you’re not just another client. You’re someone we care about and want to see thrive. We’re here to help you uncover your strength, heal from your past, and step into your future with confidence. Being a therapist is the best job in the world—there’s no greater privilege than walking alongside others on their path to healing and self-discovery, and I’m incredibly grateful to do this work every day.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey to becoming a therapist has been anything but smooth, filled with challenges that tested my resolve. One of the most difficult hurdles was passing the NCE, the board examination required to become a licensed therapist. Although I loved my program at Grand Canyon University, I found that it didn’t adequately prepare us for this exam or provide the support needed for such a critical step in our careers. It took me three attempts and an entire year to pass the test, which felt like the one thing standing between me and my dream career. During this time, I struggled with self-doubt and constant comparisons to my peers who seemed to pass with ease.

It wasn’t until I began my own therapy journey that I recognized the extent of my test anxiety. Seeking help from a therapist was a turning point for me. She helped me manage my anxiety, reframe the pressure I was putting on myself, and reminded me of my inner strength. After three months of therapy, I took the exam again—and passed. That day remains one of the best of my life.

Another significant challenge came when I decided to leave a job to start my own practice. The transition was anything but easy, as my supervisor at the time was unsupportive and created a difficult environment for me. I was asked to do things that went against my values, and I faced threats that made me question everything. This experience taught me a lot about resilience and staying true to my principles.

Ultimately, founding Turning Point Counseling was the best decision I’ve ever made. The challenges I faced along the way have shaped me into the therapist I am today, and for that, I am incredibly grateful.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Turning Point Counseling?
What should we know? What do you do, what do you specialize in, and what are you known for?

At Turning Point Counseling, my work is all about helping people uncover the deeper layers of their emotional and relational struggles so they can live with greater freedom and fulfillment. I specialize in trauma-informed therapy, with a particular focus on EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and attachment-based approaches. My expertise allows me to guide clients through the complexities of their past, helping them understand how those experiences have shaped their present-day thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. What I’m known for is my ability to connect deeply with clients, making them feel seen and understood in a way that fosters genuine healing and growth.

What sets you apart from others?

What sets me apart is my belief in the power of each individual’s inner wisdom. While many therapists may focus on providing external solutions, I see my role as helping clients reconnect with their own intuition and inner strength. I understand that healing isn’t about quick fixes or superficial changes—it’s about digging deep to address the root causes of distress. My approach is holistic and personalized, ensuring that every client’s unique story and needs are at the center of our work together. This method not only helps clients find relief from their symptoms but also empowers them to make lasting, meaningful changes in their lives.

What are you most proud of brand-wise?

I’m incredibly proud of the team I’ve built at Turning Point Counseling. Each therapist brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and dedication to our practice, creating an environment where clients feel truly supported on their healing journey. We don’t just offer therapy; we offer a space where clients can explore their deepest fears, hopes, and dreams with the guidance of someone who genuinely cares. This collaborative, client-centered approach is the cornerstone of our brand and something I’m deeply proud of.

What do you want our readers to know about your brand, offerings, services, etc.?

At Turning Point Counseling, we offer a comprehensive range of therapeutic services designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Whether you’re struggling with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or life transitions, we have the expertise to help. Our services include individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and group therapy, all grounded in trauma-informed and attachment-based approaches. We also offer coaching and mentorship for other therapists who are looking to deepen their practice and make a greater impact in their clients’ lives.

But what I really want readers to know is that when you come to Turning Point Counseling, you’re not just another client—you’re a person with a unique story, and we’re here to help you make sense of that story, heal from past wounds, and create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. We’re committed to walking alongside you every step of the way, providing the support, insight, and tools you need to thrive.

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success, in my view, isn’t about checking off society’s conventional boxes—like accumulating wealth, status, or material things. Instead, it’s about living a life that resonates with who you truly are, aligning with your core values, passions, and inner truths. I often tell my clients that you can achieve everything the world deems successful and still feel empty inside if you’re not connected to what genuinely matters to you.

As Michelle Obama wisely said, “Success isn’t about how your life looks to others. It’s about how it feels to you.” For me, true success comes when we release the need for external validation and instead embrace our own personal definition of what it means to live a successful life. It’s about finding a deep, unshakeable sense of confidence and sufficiency within ourselves, where we measure success by how aligned we are with our authentic selves rather than by how others perceive us.

When you show up in your life with authenticity and purpose, you create a kind of success that’s not just attainable, but also profoundly fulfilling. To me, success is about living meaningfully and intentionally, in a way that feels right for the life you choose to lead—a life where you define what success looks and feels like on your own terms.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.turningpointcounseling.net/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/turningpointcounselingaz/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087325057409
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rbturner/

Image Credits
https://www.carleynelsonphoto.com/