Hi there, I'm Sara!

I work with individuals, couples, and families navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and relationship issues. I specialize in trauma work and integrate trauma-focused approaches to help you work through unresolved events from the past that may leave you feeling stuck.

My focus

I mostly work with young adults managing anxiety, trauma, addiction, cultural issues, family conflicts, life transitions, and depression. Whether you're working through trauma, building coping skills, or exploring personal goals, I'll create a growth plan with you that feels empowering and achievable.

My approach

I tailor my care to your unique needs, drawing from multiple modalities. Building coping abilities, distress tolerance, and emotional regulation skills is crucial in my work, especially when addressing trauma. I adjust my approach based on what will help you most.

My communication style

I prioritize clear, open communication to create a supportive, non-judgmental space. I practice active listening and offer opportunities to reflect on your experiences with empathy. Clients often describe me as authentic and trustworthy. I encourage you to connect the dots in your life to gain insight.

My journey to mental healthcare

My mother introduced me to this field while raising three kids and pursuing her own work in psychology. I began as a music major but switched to psychology when it resonated deeply with me. Being a therapist is truly an honor and an art. I never tire of this work.

My goals for you

The therapeutic relationship is essential. My authenticity allows clients to share things they may never have shared before, and I'm honored to hold that space. I provide support and tools to help you move closer to where you want to be. I check in on treatment goals while also gently challenging you to address uncomfortable areas.

Our first session

My first session involves gathering historical information and understanding what brought you to therapy. We'll collaborate on treatment goals based on what's most important to you. I share aspects about myself to build rapport and want you to understand that change is a process that takes time.

I identify as...

Female
Caucasian or White, Middle Eastern
Spiritual

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Dialectical (DBT)

EMDR

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Attachment-based

Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT)

Experiential Therapy

Motivational Interviewing

+ 8 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Minors
Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

All Savers
Anthem
Ascension-SmartHealth
Benefit and Risk Management
Carelon Behavioral Health

+ 26 more

Languages spoken

English, Farsi

Education

Doctor of Psychology (PSYD) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology from Chapman University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

In-person sessions

4000 Westerly Pl suite 250, Newport Beach, CA 92660

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Sara Sanchez