Meet Rana Coniglio, M.A., LAC | Gen Z Therapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rana Coniglio, M.A., LAC, EMDR Trained and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rana, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
In a rapidly evolving world where the pressures and complexities of modern life can often leave young people vulnerable to various forms of trauma, my role as a trauma therapist has never felt more critical or meaningful. As a young adult myself, I hold a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by this demographic. In my work, not only am I able to provide a safe haven for individuals to explore and heal from their past experiences, but this work extends far beyond the therapy room, touching the lives of not only their clients but also their families, friends, and our community.

By addressing my client’s trauma at its roots, client’s get to experience glimmers of hope after feeling lost or overwhelmed by their experiences for so long. Through evidence-based interventions such as eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing as well as personalized care, I guide dozens of young, motivated individuals on a journey of self-discovery and healing, empowering them to reclaim their lives and rewrite their narratives. In doing so, they not only alleviate individual suffering but also prevent the perpetuation of trauma across generations, thus breaking cycles of pain and dysfunction within families and communities.

Moreover, the impact of my work extends beyond the immediate context of their clinical practice. Through my advocacy efforts and community outreach initiatives, especially through social media, I provide the opportunity and awareness about the prevalence and consequences of trauma, challenging stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental health. By promoting trauma-informed approaches online, in schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings, I get to be a part of the change I hope to see, ensuring that young people receive the support and resources they need to thrive.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey in becoming a Licensed Associate Therapist (LAC) has been a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of mental health awareness. As a therapist who utilizes a trauma-focused approach with clients, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) plays an integral role to accelerate the healing process of clients. This work is centered around providing evidence-based interventions to help individuals heal from past traumas. Through EMDR therapy, I guide clients through a structured process that allows them to reprocess distressing memories and experiences, ultimately reducing their emotional intensity and negative impact. Concurrently, I utilize a trauma-informed approach that prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment, creating a supportive environment for clients to explore and process their trauma at their own pace. My goal is to help clients build resilience, regain a sense of control over their lives, and move towards a place of healing and wholeness.

What sets me apart is not just my dedication to other’s healing but also my reach and impact beyond traditional settings. Otherwise known as ‘Gen.Z.Therapist’ on TikTok. My 20 thousand followers have the opportunity to join me in humanizing the life of a therapist. This is done in how I share personal struggles, wellness tips, and educational facts, all of which assist in breaking down barriers and fosters connection with followers. My presence on social media de-stigmatizes mental health challenges, showing other therapists and individuals around the world that it’s all of our first times on this earth as humans navigating life’s complexities.

Humanizing therapists on social media dispels misconceptions about the profession, showcasing therapists as multifaceted individuals with passions and imperfections beyond their professional roles, something that isn’t seen often today. Through authenticity and empathy, I have leveraged social media to promote positive change and connection in this digital age.

My path to this point has been characterized by patience, resilience, and a willingness to ask questions, supported by the people around me. Though the journey hasn’t been easy per-say, I’ve learned that setbacks often lead to unexpected opportunities for growth and learning. The so-called “failures” have taught me invaluable lessons, one of many being that speaking my truth is always worth it. Along the way, I’ve realized the importance of self-compassion in navigating the ups and downs of the mental health journey.

As I continue to learn more about myself in this process, I want others to know that their mental health journey is ongoing. It is kindness to oneself that makes the process tolerable. Through my platform and interactions, I aim to impart these lessons and advocate for a better future for mental health, where more people speak up for what’s right and overall well-being is prioritized.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If one of my best friends were visiting Scottsdale for a week, I’d spend our time shopping, relaxing, and eating lots of good food and yummy drinks!

We’d start off with brunch at OEB, a brunch menu that never fails to impress! After fueling up, we would spend the day searching the racks of my favorite place ever- Last Chance. I can spend hours on end here because it consists of my two favorite things- shopping and discounts! Other notable mentions for fun shopping experiences are both Scottsdale Marketplace and Buffalo Exchange- I’ve never left either of those places with empty hands.

Now, if anyone is an advocate for some self care time, it’s me. For a wellness-focused escape, we’d spend an entire day at the Spa at the Biltmore! Indulging in luxurious treatments and soaking up the most serene atmosphere. It’s so gorgeous there and their cocktails at the pool bar are the perfect cherry on top. For another day here in AZ, we’d venture out to the Phoenix Flea Market- spending most of the day exploring local vendors and artisans, maybe even getting some permanent jewelry done by Truly Blessed Jewels.

Of course, no trip to Scottsdale would be complete without some outdoor adventure, so we’d definitely hit up McDowell Sonoran Preserve for some hiking and breathtaking desert views. Since we’re all about balance, we’d follow up our outdoor escapades with dinner at either Olive and Ivy or Toca Madera- two must visits when you’re in town.

Website: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/rana-coniglio-phoenix-az/898684

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gen.z.therapist/?locale=it_IT&hl=ar

Other: Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gen.z.therapist?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 

Image Credits
All photo credit goes to @carleyc_az