Why You Worry: Obsessing, Overthinking, and Overanalyzing Explained
Rachel Chan
Biography
I am a doctoral student in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) at the University of Denver with a passion for helping individuals feel understood, empowered, and capable of creating meaningful change in their lives. My clinical work is grounded in the belief that healing begins with a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust and collaboration. I approach my work with a deep awareness of cultural, racial, and sexual diversity and strives to create a space that is inclusive, affirming, and grounded in empathy. I am trained in a generalist program and am comfortable working with all populations. However, I specialize in working with Asian American clients, BIPOC communities, international populations, and individuals from LGBTQIA+ communities.
I provide therapy for individuals ages 18 and older and have experience working with concerns including trauma, emotion dysregulation, general anxiety, social anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and identity development. I am especially interested in treating anxiety disorders and OCD using evidence-based approaches that help clients build confidence in facing uncertainty rather than avoiding it.
Providing culturally responsive care is also a priority for me. As a bilingual international clinician who speaks English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, I value creating an affirming space where clients can explore how culture, identity, family, and lived experiences shape their mental health.
Before beginning my doctoral training, I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology from New York University. Throughout my education, I have balanced clinical work with research exploring Asian American mental health, immigrant communities, ADHD, suicide prevention, and culturally responsive interventions. These experiences continue to shape my commitment to providing evidence-based, compassionate care that recognizes every client’s unique story.
Outside of psychology, I enjoy creating art, listening to music, cooking, traveling, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with my pet cat, Sosa.
I am supervised by Dr. Michael Stein. Consistent supervision means that I review all of my cases with the founder and co-owner of Anxiety Solutions of Denver, who will provide guidance on how to most effectively conduct treatment for each of my clients.
What would your client say about you as a therapist?
My clients would describe me as genuine, warm, and someone who makes them feel comfortable being exactly who they are. Therapy can be intimidating, and I believe healing happens when people know they don’t have to filter themselves or have everything figured out before they walk through the door. Whether you’re having your best day or your hardest, I want you to know that you can show up exactly as you are, and we can navigate it together.
I also think my clients would say I don’t shy away from difficult conversations. Some of the most meaningful growth comes from exploring the parts of ourselves that feel uncomfortable or vulnerable, and my role is to help make those conversations feel safe rather than overwhelming. I’ll challenge you when it serves your goals, but always from a place of curiosity, compassion, and respect.
Humor is another important part of my approach. While therapy often involves difficult emotions and can feel really scary, I don’t believe it has to feel heavy all the time. When appropriate, laughter can be incredibly healing, and I love helping clients find moments of lightness even while working through life’s challenges.
Above all, I strive to balance warmth and authenticity with evidence-based care. I want clients to leave sessions not only feeling heard and accepted, but also equipped with practical tools, new perspectives, and greater confidence in their ability to create lasting change.
What's your favorite quote or idea as a therapist?
Therapy isn’t just about moving from a -10 to a 0; it can also be helping people move from a 0 to a +10.
Do you have any pets?
Yes! I recently adopted a kitten. Her name is Sosa, which is a reference to my favorite rapper, Chief Keef. She’s currently 9 months old and is very, very playful!
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Hong Kong and moved to the US when I was 18.
What is the coolest thing you've done?
I went on a 2 month car-camping trip around the US! My favorite part was driving through 20 different national parks and looking at the stars at night.
What is your favorite TV show?
Shameless and the White Lotus
What is your favorite movie?
The Truman Show
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