Sarah Tolvaisa, LPC

I understand that seeking therapy can be daunting, and view therapy as a holistic process, striving to provide a warm, empathic, and accepting atmosphere, to support clients who are committed to making lasting change. I am Licensed Professional Counselor, and have extensive clinical experience working with individuals and couples struggling with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, low self-esteem, grief and loss, and questions of identity. I am passionate about helping couples and individuals grow and thrive, improving communication, working through trauma, and identifying and achieving goals. I received my Master of Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2011, and since then have undergone continued training specializing in trauma-informed approaches. I am a Gottman Method Level 1 trained therapist. I operate from a trauma-informed perspective recognizing that many people have had or currently experience trauma. I understand the need for emotional safety and trustworthiness in a therapist and work with clients to regain a sense of empowerment in their lives. My style is eclectic, but my work is trauma informed, using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients stop fighting against the pain of their past, and build rich and meaningful lives. For couples work, I pull strongly from the Gottman Method. I strongly believe that every person holds the capacity for growth, and can benefit from a trusting and supportive therapist to help them acknowledge and ignite that ability within themselves. I consider the client as the expert in their life and trust that a positive client and therapist relationship is key to facilitating change. Through a safe and professional relationship, the therapist can help the client deeply examine their life, and identify areas for change. Utilizing individualized treatment plans, I help clients develop goals tailored to their specific needs, and identify coping and management strategies to help clients regain a sense of control in life.

I believe that introspective self growth is the most important work an individual does in their lifetime. The therapeutic process is not always easy - it is raw and honest, but it is ultimately the most rewarding work one can do. The goal for therapy is to grow more fully into who you are, while shedding maladaptive behaviors or thought patterns - letting go of what no longer serves you, and accessing your full potential.