We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rachel Gatschet. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rachel below.
Rachel, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
“I’ve overcome mental health challenges by taking intentional steps to protect my well-being and find the right support. As a single mother, I focused on creating a stable routine for my children while breaking the cycle of generational trauma. I made the decision to give up substances and embarked on the hardest journey of my life: self-discovery. Seeking professional help has been invaluable in navigating my trauma, the loss of a job that gave me purpose, and understanding my emotions while learning coping strategies. Distancing myself from toxic individuals created the space I needed to heal and prioritize myself. Although these steps were challenging, they helped me build a stronger foundation for my mental health and continue moving forward.” Mental health is a daily battle with little understanding, and if you don’t advocate for your wants and needs, they may never get met. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, you are not a burden, and you matter!
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
For the past 25 years, I’ve been a preschool teacher, passionate about early childhood development, especially focusing on early intervention and social-emotional learning. However, after facing a significant loss—both in my job and personal life—while seeking mental health support, I found myself at a crossroads. It was during this difficult time that I discovered art, and it became a healing journey I didn’t know I needed. Art allowed me to reconnect with myself, offering a space for growth, expression, and self-discovery without judgment.
This newfound love for art inspired me to explore how I could combine my experience as a teacher with my passion for creativity. Recently, I enrolled to become an Art Life Coach, with the goal of using art to help others in their own healing processes. I’m also applying for art markets and exploring ways to share my work with a broader community.
One of my dreams is to create art camps and a space where children can freely explore materials and create, while also teaching them social-emotional skills through art. In the evenings, I plan to offer classes, group sessions, and open space for anyone who wants to experience the transformative power of art. My goal is to create a welcoming, judgment-free environment where people of all ages can tap into their creativity and healing, just as I have. This journey is about following my passion and sharing the gift I’ve found with others.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: As a preschool teacher and someone who has personally navigated mental health challenges, I’ve developed a deep sense of empathy and emotional intelligence. These qualities help me connect with others, understand their needs, and support them through their healing journeys, whether through teaching or art.
Creativity and Problem-Solving: My passion for art has fueled my creativity, which I now hope to use to help others express themselves and explore new ways of thinking. Creativity allows me to approach challenges with an open mind and to guide individuals in discovering innovative solutions to emotional and personal struggles.
Early Childhood Development and Social-Emotional Learning: With 25 years of experience in early childhood education, I have a strong foundation in developmental psychology and social-emotional learning. This knowledge is critical in supporting children and adults alike as they navigate their emotional landscapes and build resilience through creative expression..
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes, I am absolutely open to partnering and collaborating with like-minded individuals or organizations. I’m particularly interested in connecting with:
Mental Health Professionals and Therapists: Those who are passionate about integrating creativity into mental health care. I’d love to work alongside professionals who understand the therapeutic benefits of art and social-emotional learning, to create spaces where individuals can heal and grow through artistic expression.
Educators and Child Development Specialists: I’m interested in collaborating with others in early childhood education, especially those who focus on social-emotional learning or are interested in exploring creative approaches to teaching. Together, we could develop art-based programs and camps for children that support both their emotional and creative growth.
Fellow Artists and Creatives: I’d love to connect with artists who are passionate about sharing their craft and working within communities. Whether it’s co-hosting workshops, creating community art events, or exploring new ways of teaching creativity, I believe collaboration can amplify the impact of what we do.
If you’re interested in collaborating or have ideas for partnership opportunities, feel free to reach out to me through my email: Rachelscreations40@gmail or Instagram @ rachels_creations_ I’m excited to connect with people who share my passion for art, healing, and community-building!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rachelscreations.shop
- Instagram: rachels_creations_
- Facebook: Rachels Creations
Image Credits
Myself Rachel Gatschet
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
