LCSW, 6 years of experience
Frequently rebooked
Hi there! I’m Sydney, an LCSW licensed in Indiana. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Indianapolis, with a concentration in Integrative Behavioral Health Systems—fancy words that basically mean I’m really into looking at how all the people, places, and things around us shape who we are. We’re all part of some kind of system, and therapy is a space to explore how those systems impact your life; it’s a bit like unpacking your life experiences with a professional organizer. I’ve worked with clients of all ages, but my favorite clients are the ones ready to face the uncomfortable stuff head-on. Sessions with me mix humor with hard conversations—if you’re not laughing at least once, we’re not doing it right. My approach is direct, honest, and real. No Pinterest board quotes or sprinkling glitter over hard stuff here; just clear guidance while building trust. I’ll likely always have a cup of coffee in hand, and my furry emotional support Henry Jo, quietly judging your choices (but he may judge less if you bring a tennis ball to session). I work full-time in private practice and love helping people navigate their interpersonal systems, cut through the chaos, and figure out paths forward.
The first session is all about seeing if we’re a good fit and whether your suitcase has a working zipper—we want to make sure we can actually open it up. Expect: - Quick life tour: a snapshot of your background and experiences - Your questions answered: anything you’d like to know about my approach, or what to expect in therapy etc. - Ask Henry anything: he won’t talk back, but may give you a high five or shake from afar - Goal check: what you want to work on and why it matters - Road map: a plan to navigate the mess and figure out next steps By the end of our session, it’s entirely up to you—if you feel we’re a good fit, we’ll move forward together in unpacking your suitcase!
Working within the court system, and with criminal/civil cases throughout my career, I have developed a unique approach to asking necessary/hard questions while building rapport. I do not waste time with building relationships, but I also do not waste time with road mapping a clinical plan. Asking hard questions, providing difficult feedback, and maintaining client rapport can be a difficult concoction!
My ideal client is anyone ready to address the struggles they are encountering, in an authentic manner. I love addressing the “hard” discussions, as it makes us human! I will be a counselor who pushes you to think outside the box and who will get creative with solutions to address your problems.
We have to address the root of the problem to find any sustainable solution(s). TFCBT is used in my sessions to not only target trauma, but to understand how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors all interconnect.
It takes 2 to have a conflict and 2 to find a solution! I use couples therapy for people who desire to address the real/raw issues, in order to find a better way to live collaboratively whether as an ongoing couple or co-parenting.
CBT-SP is utilized for individuals who need to process thoughts, feelings, and behaviors specifically tied to passive/active suicidal ideation. Exploring the root of thoughts is important, but exploring the desire to act on those thoughts is more important. This modality addresses the raw realities of suicidal thoughts, and also normalizes the feelings and stigmas surrounding SI.
Grief is a non-linear process. My approach with grief is abstract and unique, and set at the pace of the client. Grief is a healing journey, not a race with a finish line.
MI is at the forefront of all social work practice(s). MI explores existing strengths and uses those as a catalyst to create change. If we have to discuss the issues at hand, we may as well start with the positives first, right?
7 ratings with written reviews
August 18, 2025
Sydney is extremely understanding and genuinely it feels like you’re talking to an old friend when you’re talking with her. She speaks from her heart and again is very understanding and helpful about life situations. 1000/10 recommend.
June 29, 2025
I began feeling more hopeful after our first appointment, especially after seeing a practical and realistic treatment plan. I’m looking forward to leaning on her support regarding other upcoming/ongoing challenges.
May 12, 2025
Sydney is truly the best therapist someone could ask for. She has always accepted and encouraged me to be who I truly am and that has been the most comforting thing. She also pushes me to think and consider new ideas, which I really appreciate. 10/10 would recommend!