Sarah Pemberton, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Sarah!

I specialize in working with adults dealing with a variety of life's challenges. During a time of emotional distress, finding the right therapist may feel overwhelming. I work to make the process of starting therapy as stress-free as possible, so the focus can be on your concerns.

My focus

I focus on clients dealing with developing healthy relationships, challenges within family dynamics, coping with major life transitions, identity development, difficulty regulating mood, depression, anxiety, stress, college mental health, sexual identity, infertility, and career concerns.

My approach

My therapeutic practice is rooted in a psychodynamic approach to building on your internal resources, better understanding your reactions to challenges, and reshaping those reactions. I also use solution-focused therapy that pulls upon skills-based and relational approaches to help you meet your treatment goals.

My communication style

I listen with genuine care and strive to understand your emotional experience without trying to fix it prematurely. I work to help you feel seen and heard. I communicate clearly and transparently to build trust and understanding in order to engage you as an active partner in the therapeutic process.

My journey to mental healthcare

My desire to help began through volunteering and starting student groups. I am committed to diverse and inclusive practice, with extensive experience working with families, LGBTQ community members, immigrants, first-generation clients, and underserved populations.

My goals for you

I want to help you gain clarity on what is affecting your mental health, what your goals are for yourself, and work in collaboration to help make those changes a reality. It is important to support you through tough journeys and help you find tools, coping skills, and strength toward your path of mental wellness.

Our first session

The first session is meant to be a time of information gathering and goal setting. It is very important for both of us to be headed toward the same outcome. I work to create a relaxed and supportive setting right at the initial appointment, meeting you right where you are in your therapy journey.

I identify as...

Female
Caucasian or White
Christian

Expertise

Specialties

+ 15 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Compassion Focused

Motivational Interviewing

+ 3 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

GEHA or UnitedHealthcare Shared Services
Aetna
All Savers
Allied
Anthem

+ 46 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) from University of California, Los Angeles.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Sarah Pemberton