Rachel Gutow-Ellis

Principal

After more than 30 years working in education, therapeutic consulting, and parent coaching, I’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming and isolating it can be to find the right support when you or your child doesn’t fit into typical systems.

I started Newcastle to help families navigate those moments of uncertainty—with perspective, resources, and a steady voice to walk alongside them. Over time, my work has shifted. I no longer offer direct school or program placements. Instead, I help families and individuals make sense of questions related to ADHD, Autism, and mental and emotional health, especially when those questions don’t have easy answers.

This work is personal for me. I’m the parent of two young adults, and I’ve been through the highs and lows of trying to figure out what support looks like at every stage. I know how important it is to feel seen, heard, and understood by someone who gets it.

As Newcastle grows, I’m turning my focus toward building inclusive housing and intentional communities for neurodivergent adults, places where connection, independence, and a genuine sense of belonging can thrive.

Whether you’re a parent trying to find your footing, a young adult sorting out next steps, or someone simply looking for clarity, I’m here to help you slow down, take a breath, and figure out what comes next, together.

Values

I am thorough, process-oriented, and supportive. Time is at the core of my philosophy and my practice. It takes time to make progress. It takes time to heal. I try to slow everyone down, take a deep breath, and make a plan with a key component of time. Changes do not happen overnight. I possess the patience to guide a family to the point of progress that will create a stronger, better foundation for their loved ones.

I take inspiration from the hummingbird. As it traverses from Canada through the United States and into South America, the hummingbird has a different perspective than other creatures. It flies high above the fray. It is agile. It is persistent. My approach is thoughtful, steady, and deliberate.

Hope

When I meet people with compassion, they feel more hopeful.
As parents, we plan for our children to grow happy and healthy. We expect them to attend school, make friends, and prepare for college or the next steps. Fear, frustration, and sadness take hold when our plan goes sideways. By listening to the challenges you face with compassion and empathy, I am able to provide hope for a plan that will enable the client to embark on a better path.

Honesty

When I am honest with people, they trust me.
My integrity is at the core of who I am. I am clear, concise, and resourceful. I will offer thoughtful insight and perspective. I am able to do this through a thorough research process that is detail-oriented and focuses on priorities, best practices, and keeps my client's progress at the forefront.

Commitment

My commitment to a client-centered practice creates a place for people to feel cared for.
The moment we agree to work together, I commit myself wholeheartedly to the care and well-being of my client. My connection to my client is the most important part of ensuring they feel heard and supported. I take that responsibility seriously and always remain in the mindset of, "If this were my child, what would I do?"

Credentials

I am a Certified Parent Coach with the Approved Coach Specific Training Hours recognized by the International Coach Federation. I am trained in coaching parents of struggling teens and young adults. You may struggle with feelings of isolation, helplessness, and confusion. I will use my coaching skills to help you navigate your role as a parent while your loved one does their own work…whether in school or treatment.