Meet

Rachael & Ben

We empower individuals by providing TRAUMA RESPONSIVE strategies and tools

to support the development and strengthening of positive connections.

”Connection is why we're here. We are hardwired to connect with others, it's what gives purpose and meaning to our lives, and without it there is suffering.”

-Brené Brown, Ph.D., LMSW

“Only the development of compassion and understanding for others can bring us the tranquility and happiness we all seek.”

-Dalai Lama

“Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives.”

-Bessel A. van der Kolk, MD

Hey There!

I'M RACHAEL...

I have been immersed in the fields of mindset, life coaching, hypnotherapy, and self-development for 10 years. I initially focused on working with women, offering individual sessions and hosting mindset and mindfulness retreats. However, as my children grew older and began participating in sports, I naturally transitioned to working with youth.
Through my involvement in youth sports, I observed firsthand the mental health challenges and lack of connection affecting young people. In 2015, I began focusing on the impact coaches can have on youth well-being. By 2020, during the isolation period caused by the pandemic, my hypnotherapy clientele shifted dramatically to include over 50% youth clients, highlighting a rapid increase in mental health issues among young people.
Shortly thereafter, I began training parents on mental health and connection. This initiative eventually expanded to the rewarding work I do now with various schools, businesses and teams.

Hello!

I'M BEN...

I began my career as an educator but found it challenging to meet the emotional needs of nearly 30 students per class. This led me to transition into mental health and addiction services, where I could work more closely with those struggling. After over a decade of helping adults and adolescents with mental health and addiction issues, I noticed a recurring theme: stories of emotional abuse, neglect, and trauma from home, school, and peers. Despite being from different individuals, the narratives were strikingly similar.
Having an understanding that connection is the opposite of suffering, of addiction, of suicidality, it became a passion for me to create programs that foster genuine connections among children, peers, and adults. Thus, "ELLO" was born!!!
I have collaborated with schools, wellness organizations, community programs, parents, and foster parents to educate both youth and adults on the principles of Cultivating Positive Connections. I firmly believe in the transformative power of these programs and have witnessed their profound impact firsthand.

"Rachael is a master at asking the right questions and guiding you to the root of whatever you are struggling with. Her process is powerful, direct, and allows healing to flow naturally."

-Macie W.

"I loved how I really took a deep dive into my own stuff and had Rachael's amazing knowledge and experience to help me through it. It was such a safe, healing environment in which she helped me to look at things differently."

-Mikki S.

“I experienced more healing, growth, and acceptance than in years of self-led searching for clarity. Rachael's gift of connecting, creating a safe space, and providing knowledge is priceless. She is an amazing, trustworthy person who makes you feel loved, seen, and worthy."

-Bryn K.

Rachael is a fantastic teacher. Her passion and love for what she does is contagious.”

-Donna S.

"Ben meets people where they are and then works with them to do better and be better, and has been a steady force for good in his community."

-Sara H.

"I admire the way Ben works to see others with respect and compassion."

-Steele G.

"Ben is a leader who inspires those he interacts with and thrives in being able to educate others."

-Zack B.

"Ben shows great leadership, has been such a great example and has touched so many people's lives in a positive way."

-Cassy C.

"Ben is not only a great leader, he is humble, compassionate, nonjudgemental and relatable."