Location
Ages
Focus
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS
About Rich
Influenced by his experience in therapy, Rich Schlauch’s career path shifted in 1998, when he trusted his instinct to transition from an aspiring musician to becoming a therapist. Ten years later, Rich founded Palmetto Counseling in 2008 with the mission to provide the Carolinas with judgment-free care that knows no bounds. Still growing his 25+ years of mental health experience, Rich is a compassionate therapist who specializes in mental health advocacy and helping adults overcome personal and professional challenges.
Studying among world-class drummers at Musicians Institute: College of Contemporary Music in Hollywood, Calif., in his early 20s, Rich’s dream was to become a studio drummer. During this time, he started to experience severe anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, and depression, all of which he hadn’t before. Although admittedly skeptical at first, Rich sought help through therapy and gained insight into his need “to be perfect to feel ok.”
His therapist allowed time for Rich to feel understood, carefully handling the unresolved issues that contributed to his symptoms and introducing more positive coping skills. Enlightened by this process and the personal growth that followed, Rich formed the desire to help others the same way his therapist helped him.
Today, Rich prides himself on his patient and empathetic therapeutic approach and commitment to building trust and rapport for his clients to feel comfortable opening up and beginning to heal in their own time.
Identifying as an introvert, Rich is very comfortable working with clients and allowing space for growth to occur naturally and without force. Over time, Rich has learned when a client needs someone to listen to them more than anything and when a more directive approach is needed for gaining insight. He works as his client’s champion, celebrating their triumphs and helping them connect with the strength to overcome their challenges, knowing that it’s already inside them.
As Rich’s client, you can expect to be treated with respect and praise for your decision to seek help and guidance formed through a thoughtful exploration of your challenges and desired goals. Rich understands that this first step can be difficult to take, but is a testament that a happier, healthier you awaits.
Education
- Master’s in Social Work, University of South Carolina
- Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Winthrop University
“As a mental health professional, I believe that we all possess the ability to change, grow, and develop. I’ve had the privilege of working with many amazing clients over the years who have shown incredible courage and resilience and have inspired me to continue to develop my clinical skills.”
—Rich Schlauch, MSW, LISW-CP
Licensure and Certifications
- Licensed in both North Carolina and South Carolina
- Licensed Independent Social Worker, Clinical Practice – SC #7244
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker – NC #COO5197
- Licensed Independent Social Worker, Clinical Practice – Supervisor (SC)
- Certified Clinical Supervisor – NC NASW (June 2007)
- Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional – Evergreen #662773 (November 2022)
- Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional – Evergreen #158661 (November 2022)
“As a mental health professional, I believe that we all possess the ability to change, grow, and develop. I’ve had the privilege of working with many amazing clients over the years who have shown incredible courage and resilience and have inspired me to continue to develop my clinical skills.”
—Rich Schlauch, MSW, LISW-CP
Education
- Master’s in Social Work, University of South Carolina
- Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Winthrop University
Licensure and Certifications
- Licensed in both North Carolina and South Carolina
- Licensed Independent Social Worker, Clinical Practice – SC #7244
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker – NC #COO5197
- Licensed Independent Social Worker, Clinical Practice – Supervisor (SC)
- Certified Clinical Supervisor – NC NASW (June 2007)
- Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional – Evergreen #662773 (November 2022)
- Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional – Evergreen #158661 (November 2022)
About Rich
Influenced by his experience in therapy, Rich Schlauch’s career path shifted in 1998, when he trusted his instinct to transition from an aspiring musician to becoming a therapist. Ten years later, Rich founded Palmetto Counseling in 2008 with the mission to provide the Carolinas with judgment-free care that knows no bounds. Still growing his 25+ years of mental health experience, Rich is a compassionate therapist who specializes in mental health advocacy and helping adults overcome personal and professional challenges.
Studying among world-class drummers at Musicians Institute: College of Contemporary Music in Hollywood, Calif., in his early 20s, Rich’s dream was to become a studio drummer. During this time, he started to experience severe anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, and depression, all of which he hadn’t before. Although admittedly skeptical at first, Rich sought help through therapy and gained insight into his need “to be perfect to feel ok.”
His therapist allowed time for Rich to feel understood, carefully handling the unresolved issues that contributed to his symptoms and introducing more positive coping skills. Enlightened by this process and the personal growth that followed, Rich formed the desire to help others the same way his therapist helped him.
Today, Rich prides himself on his patient and empathetic therapeutic approach and commitment to building trust and rapport for his clients to feel comfortable opening up and beginning to heal in their own time.
Identifying as an introvert, Rich is very comfortable working with clients and allowing space for growth to occur naturally and without force. Over time, Rich has learned when a client needs someone to listen to them more than anything and when a more directive approach is needed for gaining insight. He works as his client’s champion, celebrating their triumphs and helping them connect with the strength to overcome their challenges, knowing that it’s already inside them.
As Rich’s client, you can expect to be treated with respect and praise for your decision to seek help and guidance formed through a thoughtful exploration of your challenges and desired goals. Rich understands that this first step can be difficult to take, but is a testament that a happier, healthier you awaits.
In Rich’s Free Time
As a humble servant of God, Rich’s faith guides him throughout his life. “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love” (1 Corinthians 13:13). Rich enjoys spending quality time with his family, strength training and fitness, playing the drums, and quiet evenings binge-watching his favorite movies and television shows.
Areas of Specialization
- Anxiety
- Mood Disorders
- ADHD
- Positive Parenting
- Depression
- Adjustment Concerns
- Phase of life issues
- Divorce / Separation
- Relationship Concerns
- Physical health problems / vocational problems
- Career Burnout
Treatment Modalities
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Person-Centered therapy
- Solution-Focused / Brief Therapy
- Strengths-based therapy
- Supportive Counseling
- Faith-based / Christian Counseling
Accepted Insurance
Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, CBHA, Cigna, Medicare, Optum/UnitedHealthcare, Tricare, Out-of-Pocket/Self-Pay