Lynn McGuire Raj
MSW, LCSW-A
welcome
Are you seeking peace through acceptance, the courage to face what feels insurmountable, or clarity on the path ahead?
The Serenity Prayer has guided me since I was a teen. It reminds me that with discernment we can do hard things.
Our past experiences and the meaning we make of them often shape how we show up. But presence offers its own possibilities. Whether you’re navigating a transition, facing an obstacle, or standing at a fork in the road, it’s my honor to offer support, encouragement, and a space to breathe and summon your own inner wisdom.
how i work
I believe you are the expert of your own life. My role is to walk alongside you—
as a witness, a reflection, a cheerleader or an accountability partner.
Together, we’ll hold what feels tender, listen for what longs to be soothed, and strengthen your resolve.
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Anxious or overwhelmed? We’ll acknowledge what wishes to be seen and heard and practice techniques to calm your nervous system.
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Grieving or feeling the weight of loss? Let’s lean into the longing with curiosity and compassion.
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Stuck in a pattern or at a crossroads? We’ll explore new perspectives, grounded in both acceptance and agency.
my approach
I am a trauma-informed, person-centered, strengths-based counselor who works with adults, both individually and in groups. I love the “two Carls”, Rogers and Jung, and am inspired by Buddhist philosophy, mindfulness practices, and Existential Psychology. Years ago, I studied Ayurveda and still find it informs my understanding of the human mind and body.
Deep listening is my jam. But if journaling, art therapy, oracle cards or role-play are yours, let’s get creative! However you do, we’ll do you!
areas of focus
• Transitions & Role Shifts: Life changes, career shifts, divorce, peri/menopause
• Emotional Wellbeing: Trauma, stress, burnout, anxiety, codependency, depression
• Care & Family: Caregiving, eldercare, dementia
• Grief & Loss: Coping with illness, anticipatory grief, bereavement, end of life planning
about me
I’ve navigated some exciting plot twists. And spent years learning to get out of my own way, so that I won’t be in yours.
In my previous career, I created experiences that helped build and transform communities. I raised funds to ensure meals were delivered to New York City’s homebound elderly. I produced music and story-telling festivals that gave platforms to emerging artists across India. And after a cancer diagnosis, my own healing journey led me to serve others at a holistic health institute in New Mexico. Amplifying voices less heard and holding space for transformation has always been my “why.”
More recently, when my aging parents needed support navigating heart disease and dementia, I stepped into the role of care partner. I returned to grad school to earn my master’s in social work so that I could be better equipped to encourage their capabilities and advocate for their needs – as well as my own. Caregiving is wild! Caregivers, I see you! Resilience, I’ve learned, emerges from both showing up and surrender.
my training
modalities and theories i draw from
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Polyvagal Theory & Somatic Healing Techniques
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Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
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Internal Family Systems (IFS)
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Attachment Theory
education and certifications
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MSW, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Certified Caregiver Support Group Facilitator – NC Dementia Alliance
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Certified Death Doula & End of Life Planner – Going with Grace
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Integrative Somatic Healing Certification (expected completion12/2025)
The best way to take care of the future is to take care of the present moment.
- Thich Nhat Hanh