My Name is Lori Sawyer and I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work collaboratively with clients to identify and address mental health challenges from a strength-based perspective. My goal is to support clients in reducing counterproductive patterns of beliefs, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors so that they can thrive across all life domains.
My approach
I utilize a cognitive behavioral approach to therapy along with a trauma-informed perspective. I focus on implementing evidence-based practices in concrete ways. I also have extensive experience in applied behavioral analysis and functional family therapy.
My focus
I primarily work with teens and adults who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, or relational challenges including those coping with transitional life stressors, relational challenges or conflict, trauma-related disorders, anxiety, depression, and parenting challenges.
My communication style
I prioritize creating a compassionate and non-confrontational environment in which clients can experience feeling seen, heard, and understood. I work with clients to practice positive coping and communication skills. Sessions are generally client-driven and conversational in nature.
My journey to mental healthcare
I initially was drawn to becoming a therapist because of my interest in literature and art. I was always fascinated by subconscious thoughts and beliefs and their influence on decision-making. I particularly value the very human ability to create meaningful narratives that allow us to overcome obstacles.
My goals for you
The first 2-3 sessions are generally focused on understanding the challenges specific to the client. Goals are client-driven with therapist feedback and reflect the client's aspirations for achieving both a decrease in negative symptoms and an enhancement of systemic quality of life.
My first session with you
The first session is conversational and non-linear in nature. My focus is to understand you and ascertain what you hope to gain from therapy. In our first session, I hope to understand how the symptoms you are experiencing are affecting your day-to-day life. I also hope to gain a perspective on your physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, and social health.