personal
personal
personal
There is no 'one size fits all' approach when it comes to making effective, lasting changes. I will take into account your unique identity and background, to align the therapeutic process with what is most important to your well- being.
private
personal
personal
Opening up about yourself can very feel vulnerable. In order to benefit from counseling, confidentiality during counseling is of the utmost importance. You will have the ability to set the pace of your own experience, and build trust according to your own comfort level, from the privacy of your own home in our virtual sessions.
powerful
personal
powerful
Taking care of your emotional health is a vital part of life, but very often seems out of reach or mysterious. My hope is to make this a positive experience, that is accessible to anyone and easy to understand.
Ideally counseling is a non-judgmental space for you to be able to be raw, honest, and creative as you explore change.
Sara smith, lpc
Hello, I am happy you're here. I want to acknowledge this already big step you are taking. It should not be understated the value of your curiosity in this moment, the insight into knowing it is time, and the courage it takes to actually look (and ask) for help, even if you're still just exploring. Whether you are aware of it or not you have already begun a process of change for yourself, and likely already changing the way you feel ever so slightly.
My patients sometimes ask me "Don't you ever get tired of listening to people's problems all day?" I can honestly say no, I really don't. I have been in this field over 13 years, and I have come to realize the counseling process is not about giving advice or trying to fix people, but is having new kind of conversation with a caring professional that will lead you in a new direction. I am in awe of all aspects of the human experience and consider it a privilege for people to share their inner lives with me, it is not ever tiresome or boring. I look forward to talking to you.
Approach
We will work together to identify your needs and find relief throughout your experience in therapy. Our first goal is to establish safe, supportive space for you. Therapy should allow you to not only find motivation to care for yourself and gain personal insight, but also provide relief from emotional pain, make lasting changes, and find your way back to your Self.
services
I offer both group and individual therapy through several insurances in Oregon, as well private pay substance-use treatment services that are 100% confidential without the involvement needed from insurance, employers, doctors or anyone other than myself and you. This is the most private, and therefore therapeutic form of treatment.
find peace
You might feel trapped by circumstances that seem insurmountable, experience sadness, feelings of inadequacy, lack motivation, feel unfulfilled, struggle with work, or relationships; but the truth is you don't have to continue to feel this way. You have a built-in ability to become a more authentic and happier version of yourself. You have already started fostering hope for change, that's part of what got you here. Stay curious. Keep going.