Lives in the Balance, The Stories of Women

These are the women of our community, here are their stories.

Meet Rachel, a psychotherapist in our community

Rachel’s story is relatable and inspiring to all women. She attended Columbia University. Although she was interested in pursuing a graduate degree in medicine, Rachel’s parents encouraged her to go the traditional route and marry upon graduation. For the next ten years, Rachel put her career on hold while raising four children and becoming immersed in communal life. She actively volunteered at her children’s schools and became very involved at Sephardic Bikur Holim (SBH).
When her youngest child turned two and was enrolled in a three-day preschool program, with the support of her husband, Rachel decided to refocus on her career. Inspired by her volunteer role at SBH, she decided to enroll in a social work program at New York University. Very mindful of her personal commitments to her husband and children, she attended school on a part-time basis, over a 3-year period.

After graduating with a master’s degree in social work, Rachel opened her own private practice in psychoanalysis and psychotherapy. She obtains a lot of gratification helping clients work through life’s issues. Rachel describes the signing of her office lease as a pivotal moment in her professional life—it was momentous to see her name on the document. She was 35 years old.
As Rachel’s children grew and were spending more time in school, she devoted more time to her practice and embarked on a four-year fellowship program in intensive psychotherapy and psychoanalysis

When asked if this choice has been a deterrent to family life, Rachel acknowledges that some days are difficult. However, she asserts that integrating a professional role and maintaining a family-life are definitely worth it. She emphasizes that she sees herself as a positive role model to her children, especially to her two daughters. Rachel points out that a working woman’s life is a balancing act.
She confides that being a working mom will lead to some feelings of guilt, but the satisfaction of having a career and contributing to the household income far outweigh the drawbacks.
“Women leading this integrated life are actually benefitting their children by teaching them to be responsible and independent, which will bode well for them when they embark on their own journeys into adulthood,” notes Rachel.

If you are interested in a career, please reach out to PROPEL and we can help you fulfill your professional goal. You can call 646-494-0822 or email info@thepropelnetwork.org.