Sarah Loughridge

Hello, and congratulations on taking the first step on your therapeutic journey. That takes courage and I am so proud of you! My name is Sarah Loughridge. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in the state of Missouri. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Neurodiversity Affirmative, and LGBTQ friendly. I conduct all sessions via telehealth. I look forward to partnering with you as you set out on this journey to heal from your past, take control of your present, and learn skills to create a better future.

My approach

I believe there is no single therapy that is right for every person. I use a Client-Centered approach, meaning that I may choose methods from multiple theoretical foundations to create a therapeutic experience that is custom tailored to fit your needs. As a Trauma Informed Clinician I have received specialized training in understanding the impact of chronic stress and trauma on your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. My approach is also heavily influenced by neuropsychology because I believe that understanding how our brain and nervous system operate internally is a fundamental part of changing how we express our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors externally.

My focus

While I welcome clients from all walks of life, my typical clients tend to fall into two categories: 1) Survivors of trauma, including PTSD and C-PTSD and 2) Neurodivergent individuals, including ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and other Sensory/Executive Functioning related issues. Quite often these two categories overlap creating unique challenges for those who have brains that process stress and trauma differently. I have received specialized training in working with neurodiversity and trauma throughout the lifespan. While I am not able to formally diagnose ASD, I can provide a referral to a trusted colleague for a formal assessment.

My communication style

Therapy is a 100% judgment free zone. I enter every session with an open mind and strive to create an environment where every client feels safe and respected. I believe therapy should be a space where laughter is just as welcome as tears and it is ok to express any thought or feeling that needs to be heard. I encourage my clients to explore their world with curiosity as we work together to process and organize overwhelming thoughts and feelings and find solutions that work for you.

My journey to mental healthcare

I have always had a fascination with psychology and a passion for helping others. My career began in 2011, after graduating with a Dual Bachelor's in Psychology and Sociology from Drury University in Springfield, MO. I started out doing behavioral work with at-risk youth. That experience inspired me to go back to school to earn my Master’s degree in Psychology from University of the Rockies in Colorado Springs, CO. Since then I have worked with clients of all ages and all walks of life. I love embracing diversity and learning about different cultures and worldviews. It is an honor to be able to join my clients on their journey and watch them blossom into their favorite versions of themselves.

My goals for you

When I listen to you tell your story, I strive to understand what your experience feels like for you rather than focusing just on your symptoms. We will work together to come up with a list of goals reflecting what you want to get out of your therapy experience. Some of these goals may be based on the ways research has shown us that are helpful to move you forward and start feeling better, such as learning skills to regulate your nervous system. Other goals will be tailored specifically to what you want to achieve, such as learning healthier ways to communicate or exploring maladaptive behavior patterns to improve relationships. We will refer back to your treatment plan periodically to track your progress and make sure your needs are being met.

My first session with you

The first session will feel a little different than your regular ongoing sessions. The first time we meet we will go over what to expect in therapy and talk about what brings you to therapy at this time. We will also review the assessments you fill out prior to your first session and begin determining goals that will help set you on the path to create the life you want to live. Some people find it helpful to write out a list of questions or important talking points they would like to cover. It is important to choose a space where you will have privacy to speak freely during your sessions. Bring a snack, a fuzzy blanket, fidgets, or anything else that makes you feel safe and comfortable.