When Rebecca Nelson, B.A. ’14, M.A. ’16 began taking classes at the Lynch School of Education and Human Development, she was unsure where her passion for psychotherapy would lead her. But after taking Dr. Tummala-Narra’s class, Introduction to Trauma, Nelson’s path unfolded as she developed a deep interest in trauma counseling.
“That class profoundly shaped my career trajectory. I recall being intrigued by the idea that someone with a previously healthy and adaptive life could experience a traumatic event that can so profoundly disrupt functioning—something that felt distinctly different from other mental health conditions I had studied.”
She calls that course a “turning point” in her career, one that motivated her to focus her studies on trauma counseling. As a graduate intern, Nelson worked in advanced therapeutic settings, including hospital emergency rooms and inpatient programs. There, she quickly learned from experiences that rapidly advanced her expertise in the field.
Shortly after graduating from the Lynch School in 2016, Nelson landed her first clinical job—one that she describes as a “trial by fire.” Despite the steep learning curve, she felt well-prepared thanks to the strong foundation she received at Boston College.
The role “helped me build resilience, adaptability, and humility—qualities that have defined my career ever since,” she shares.
After several years honing her skills across a variety of clinical settings, Nelson opened her own private practice, Nelson Psychotherapy LLC. Leveraging her specialization in trauma counseling, Nelson’s practice offers “modern therapeutic solutions that address the complex impacts of trauma while inspiring hope and fostering healing.”
"The Lynch School provided me with a foundation that has been instrumental in my work as a trauma-focused clinician…and my passion and commitment to the field of trauma counseling," says Nelson.
She finds purpose in building a practice that reflects her values by providing meaningful care to a specialized population. Now, as Nelson Psychotherapy LLC flourishes, her dream to make a difference in the lives of others has become a reality.