Hi, Im Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Social worker providing services in ND and MN. I Graduated with my Master's degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in 2019. I work with those struggling with anxiety and depression, along with navigating life transitions. I have also grown fond of working with people who are learning to manage symptoms of personality disorders, wether it is for themselves, or if they are finding themselves in interpersonal relationships with others who have a personality disorder.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During our first session we will begin with introductions then move into current life stressors or what brought you to therapy. Though a back and forth discussion, we will touch on childhood, family dynamics, medical information to appropriately inform any potential diagnosis or additional focuses of therapy. Ideally we will end the session around identifying at least 1 or 2 specific goals to start working on in future sessions to ensure we are on the same page and have the same expectations moving forward in therapy sessions.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
While I am empathetic and compassionate, I sometimes use a direct approach when appropriate. I try to keep most sessions conversational, as I find it helpful in creating a supportive and encouraging atmosphere.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I enjoy working with those who are struggling with feeling anxious, depressed, and those navigating relationships with others who suffer from personality disorders. You may be noticing increases in panic attacks, feeling trapped like their is no right answer, overthinking, a sense of helplessness, unsure of what to do next. In relationships you may notice feeling emotional distress and confusion. You may experience frequent conflicts, manipulation, or emotional abuse from your partner, and find it difficult to set boundaries and feel overwhelmed by your partners eratic behavior. I enjoy working with those who are motivated to gain insight into their thought patterns, relational dynamics as well as those who are seeking and committed to personal growth, seeking support, and developing resilience in the face of adversity. Open to exploring their own vulnerabilities, strengths, areas of growth, with goals of creating healthier boundaries, improving communication, developing effective coping skills and work towards building a more balanced and fulfilling life.