Rachel Holman - NMU Social Work

Rachel Holman has ~10 years of experience as a clinical therapist; specializing in trauma and stressor-related disorders and substance use disorders. She has a varied background, and is currently a second-year doctoral student in Environmental Studies at Antioch University New England. Her current dissertation interests involve the study of human-animal interactions/animal-assisted interventions as a holistic treatment for climate grief, eco-anxiety and solastaglia. Her research considers a socio-ecological system, and ecofeminist, perspective within the context of One Health/Welfare.  

Rachel started her social work journey a bit differently; receiving her BS in Biology/Ecology from Northern before attending veterinary school at Michigan State University. Thereafter, she worked in shelter medicine, and animal rescue and welfare. She then received her MSW from the University of Southern California, and has been immersed in the social work field ever since.

Rachel has also completed continued education and post-graduate certifications to enhance her all-inclusive approach to recovery and therapy/treatment. Most recently she received a certificate as a human animal intervention specialist from Oakland University, completed training in EMDR, and has taken courses through the University of Tennessee in Veterinary Social Work. At random points along the way, occasionally working an odd-ball position as a field biologist. 

Rachel’s last clinical position was at the Women’s Center as a sexual assault therapist, where she became a board member for Sasawin Safe Haven, a program that provides refuge for the companion animals of survivors escaping domestic violence. She continues to maintain this position today, while working with local animal professionals to raise awareness of the curative power of the human-animal bond. 

Rachel is originally from Chicago, but moved to the Marquette area after receiving her BS. Although she has sporadically lived elsewhere, she has always returned to the UP. She enjoys hiking, camping, biking, running, kayaking/paddle boarding, and time with friends and family (the furry ones included).