About Dr. Mrnalini Rao
Focus areas
Adolescent / Teen Issues
Couples Therapy
Play Therapy
Anxiety
Depression
BIPOC Mental Health Issues
LGBTQ+ Counseling
Clientele seen
Teenagers (13-17)
Individuals
Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Treatment approaches
Trauma Focused
Relational
Strength-Based
Psychodynamic
Sandplay
Psychoanalytic
Identity
Gender
FemaleLanguages spoken
English
Getting to know Dr. Mrnalini Rao
As human beings, we are not born with problems; rather, we live in a world that often reinforces the need to conform. My goal as a therapist is to help you reshape that narrative for yourself, breaking free from unhelpful patterns shaped by childhood and societal pressures. I bring my authentic, genuine self to each session, creating a space for deeper connection and empowering you to reclaim your agency.
I believe in reducing the power differential between therapist and client, fostering a collaborative environment where you can advocate for your own healing. There is no hierarchy in our work together; you are the expert on your lived experience, and I am here to guide and support you. My aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can use me as a tool for healing.
Together, we will work on dismantling internalized homophobia, shame, racism, and the impacts of capitalism, while navigating challenges and embracing self-acceptance at every stage of your journey. Therapeutic change is not linear, and I support a process of self-reflection that destigmatizes shame and embraces every feeling and human experience.
I earned my PsyD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Indianapolis, which has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to support you effectively throughout your healing process.
What should a new client know about working with you?
I have a large capacity to hold complexity, allowing space for you to reorganize your narrative in a way that feels true to you. I am committed to providing culturally sensitive, sex- and gender-affirming care, embracing diversity in all its forms. My approach includes multiple perspectives—psychodynamic, relational, feminist, decolonizing, and health-centered models like Health At Every Size (HAES)—to meet the unique needs of each individual.
I also encourage the use of intuitive tools such as mindfulness, writing, music, art, tarot, and oracle cards to connect to your inner compass. I am passionate about working with teens, adults, and couples from diverse gender, sexual, and cultural backgrounds, with clinical interests in identity struggles, relationship dynamics, Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM), kink, Therian identities, body-image work, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ support, and cultural and racial issues.
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In-network insurances
Dr. Mrnalini Rao has 100+ in-network plans.
Popular visit reasons
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Depression
Pre-Move In Couples Counseling
Prenuptial Counseling
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit
Therapy
Young Adult Issues
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Depression
Pre-Move In Couples Counseling
Prenuptial Counseling
Office location
Dr. Mrnalini Rao, PsyD also offers online video visits for patients
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- University of Indianapolis, PsyD in Clinical Psychology
NPI number
1164299111
How soon can I make an appointment with Dr. Mrnalini Rao?
Generally, Dr. Mrnalini Rao has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Dr. Rao's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Dr. Mrnalini Rao accepting new patients?
Dr. Mrnalini Rao generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Dr. Rao's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Dr. Mrnalini Rao accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Dr. Rao is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Dr. Mrnalini Rao online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Dr. Rao using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Dr. Mrnalini Rao work with?
Dr. Mrnalini Rao works with Solway Psychology LLC.
Where is Dr. Mrnalini Rao's office located?
Dr. Mrnalini Rao has 2 office locations in Chicago, view full addresses on Dr. Rao's profile.
What are common reasons for patients to see Dr. Mrnalini Rao?
Dr. Mrnalini Rao frequently sees patients for Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Dr. Mrnalini Rao on their profile.
What languages does Dr. Mrnalini Rao speak?
Dr. Mrnalini Rao speaks English.