Sarah Saffian, Licensed Clinical Social Worker- Psychotherapy Privilege, MFA

These words from Walt Whitman really resonate with me: I contain multitudes. A primary focus of my work is identity: how to nourish a full, true self. A person who is adopted: integrating the various facets of your identity, what comes from nature and what from nurture. A woman struggling with infertility, or who is pregnant or a new mother: staying in touch with who else you are, beyond that most important role. Someone grieving a loss or grappling with a trauma, whether recent or from childhood, or navigating health issues: not letting that experience completely define you. A person exploring sexual orientation, relationships, stage of life: how are you evolving? Someone overwhelmed and distressed by the state of the world: allowing space for what else is true. I work collaboratively, as a fellow human being, with empathy, clarity, and humor. I honor you as the expert of your unique experience, in our dual pursuit of insight and action: understanding yourself more deeply, to determine what to do now to cultivate a life of balance and fulfillment. Unconditionally on your side while gently challenging through asking questions and suggesting other perspectives, I have a hybrid approach ranging from Buddhist mindfulness to cognitive behavior therapy practicality, and offer readings and therapeutic writing prompts when useful, to support you in setting intentions and working toward them. In the wise words of psychologist Carl Rogers, The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change. Let us work toward meaningful self-knowledge and positive change together.