About Sarah
I am licensed social worker specializing in substance use, trauma and mental wellness. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology and graduate degree in social work at the University of Michigan. I am currently participating in a three-year Somatic Experiencing training through the Somatic Experiencing Trauma Institute. I also have training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical behavioral Therapy (DBT). My treatment approach is interactive, empathetic, eclectic, nonjudgmental, holistic, and strength based. As a therapist, I integrate a multitude of treatment modalities to create an individualized plan to optimize each person’s unique healing process.
Costs and Insurance
$130 - 180 per session
Out of Pocket
Blue Cross Blue Shield
What's your experience with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)?
I have training in CBT and have been using these skills for over 8 years. I use CBT in conjunction with modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Internal Family Systems and psychodynamic techniques. I believe that one size does not fit all when it comes to therapy. Some people benefit greatly from CBT while other people benefit from a combination of techniques!
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Going to therapy doesn't have to be a life time commitment. You can try one appointment and decide it is not right for you! Additionally, my approach is to let you guide as the patient. We will not talk about anything you are not comfortable sharing and I let you set the pace!
What is your experience with clients with trauma or abuse?
I utilize a multitude of approaches including Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems to support people to renegotiate trauma and abuse. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of traumatic experiences including but not limited to sexual abuse, neglect, institutional abuse, racial discrimination, prenatal trauma, grief/loss, human trafficking, suicide, domestic violence, accidents and falls.
Why is trauma processing important?
"Trauma is not the bad things that happen to you, but the bad things that happen inside of you as a result of the bad things that happen to you" - Dr. Gabor Mate. I believe trauma processing is important because of what is said in this quote. The trauma and stress that we experience can be stuck in our bodies (and minds) and if we do not process it, it will continue to haunt us and unconsciously affect our daily lives. I believe that the renegotiation of trauma does not happen overnight and we first have to have access to body sensations, a sense of relative safety and stabilization, which therapy can help with!
What does a typical session with you tend to look like?
Sessions are typically 45-60 minutes. We can discuss if you would like sessions to be more structured and guided or if you prefer sessions to be more open ended.
How do you work with clients with addiction?
I believe that addiction is not a primary problem, rather it is the response to a trauma or underlying stressor. I do not believe any person who engages in substances is a bad person or should be shamed for their behaviors. I work from a strength based approach to help the client define their goals around substance use. I believe some clients can benefit from a 12 step or community based support approach but do not mandate that clients take that approach.
What's your experience with internal family systems (IFS)?
Internal Family Systems is one of my favorite therapies. I think that it is helpful to see the different parts of ourselves as having good intentions with the goal of protecting us. IFS allows us to get to know ourselves and our parts without judgement or fear in a very authentic way. I highly recommend trying it!
How can you provide care remotely?
Telehealth is an amazing way to reduce barriers to treatment such as time, transportation, distance and child care. I solely provide telehealth services and use a HIPAA compliant platform.
What's your experience with clients with transgender issues?
I have worked closely with many patients who identify as LBGTQ and specifically those who are in transition or who have transitioned. I believe all humans, no matter their gender, sex, pronouns, etc deserve quality care and support.
Interested in talking?
(248) 607-0887Costs and Insurance
$130 - 180 per session
Out of Pocket
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Specialties
Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
Approaches
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Somatic