Integrative Psychotherapy
In-Person in San Diego / Teletherapy throughout California
Hello! Welcome to your journey toward healing and personal growth.
Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, or simply seeking deeper connection and fulfillment, I’m here to support you and honor your courage for taking this first step
What if mental wellness and mental distress are not opposing states but points along a spectrum—an integral part of what it means to be human? If so, the experiences you’re having right now, whether moments of flourishing or times of challenge, are part of the rich tapestry of life. You are not alone in this journey, and by being here, you’ve already taken a meaningful step toward care and change.
The reasons for seeking support are as varied as our unique life stories. You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, depleted, or even shut down. These feelings can leave us stuck, disconnected from ourselves, distanced from meaningful relationships, or uncertain that things can ever improve.
But here’s the truth: we all deserve a space where we can speak freely, where there is no fear of judgment or shame. A space where someone can walk beside us, holding hope and strength until we can hold them ourselves.
It is my privilege to provide that space for you—a place to feel seen, heard, and supported as we work together to create the changes that feel right for you. Wherever you are on your journey, I’m here to help you find clarity, resilience, and the healing you deserve.
Warmly,
Sara
Some Areas of Focus
Though I work with clients from all walks of life, these are a few of my specialties:
Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural and often adaptive response to stress, serving as our body’s way of signaling a need for attention or action. However, when our nervous systems remain in a prolonged state of heightened activation, this response can become overwhelming. Over time, we may begin to experience its effects—both physically and emotionally—such as a racing heart, sweaty palms, excessive worrying, intrusive thoughts, difficulty relaxing, or feelings of irritability and tension.
These experiences, while challenging, are not a reflection of weakness. They are your body’s way of asking for support and care. Together, we can create space to understand these signals with curiosity and compassion, exploring ways to bring greater calm and balance to your life.
Depression
From a trauma-informed perspective, depression often arises as a response to the body’s nervous system being overwhelmed. When we remain stuck in a prolonged state of fight, flight, or freeze, the body may eventually shift into a state of shutdown as a way of coping with the overload. This is not a failing—it is the body’s way of protecting itself when it feels there are no other options.
By approaching this response with understanding and kindness, we can begin to gently explore the underlying causes and work toward creating space for healing and reconnection. Together, we can honor your body’s resilience while finding new ways to restore balance and well-being.
Life Transitions
Navigating life transitions can be challenging, whether you're facing a recent move, graduation, job change, or more profound shifts like a break-up, divorce, or the loss of a loved one, including pets. Change often brings with it a mix of emotions, and it can be particularly difficult when the change is unexpected or even when it’s perceived as positive.
If you find yourself grappling with feelings of stress, anxiety, or sadness during these transitions, know that I am here to support you. My approach is to meet you at your unique point in your journey, guiding you beyond the obstacles that may stand in your way. I strive to create a compassionate, uplifting, and non-judgmental space where you can feel empowered and validated.
Relationship Challenges
For those navigating challenges in their relationships—whether with others, substances, or themselves—this is a space where you can find support. Relationships take many forms: connections with family, friends, or partners; your relationship with your own emotions, thoughts, and self-worth; or your interactions with substances or behaviors that may no longer serve you. If you’re feeling conflicted, confused, or disconnected in any of these areas, you don’t have to face these struggles alone. Together, we can work toward clarity, connection, and the healing you deserve.
Self-Esteem & Self-Worth
For those who experience persistent self-doubt and long for relief from the relentless messages of their inner critic—the ones that echo the belief of not being enough—this is a space where healing is possible. Together, we can explore these thoughts with curiosity and compassion, working to quiet that critical voice and replace it with one that reflects your inherent worth and strength.
Book a Consultation
I would love to hear from you. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.