Sarah Saunders

Salutations! (I wanted something different than "hi" or "hello"). My name is Sarah and I am an LPCC-S in the state of Ohio which basically means I can practice independently and can supervise those who can't. I love therapy and I love what it can do for people. My practice approach is very individualized and eclectic in nature but comes from a trauma-informed lens always. The majority of my career has been in a locked residential setting helping children who struggle with severe mental health troubles, resulting behaviors, and even more severe trauma. I also have experience in the adult world as well as in federal corrections. My goal with Rula is to extend my reach to those who may be looking for a virtual approach to therapy and who are genuinely seeking help or even just someone to talk to

My approach

As mentioned in my bio, it is very eclectic and based on the individual. But, some of my primary approaches include trauma-informed CBT, DBP, person-centered, and motivational interviewing. I also specialize in just "gush" sessions where there is no approach being used aside from just listening and being an impartial person in your life when you need to simply talk to someone

My focus

My experience includes from as young as six to as old as, if I remember correctly, like 83. I am comfortable with most conditions but I would say I have extensive experience with personality disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, severe PTSD, and anxiety. I have worked with all types of clients and we seem to always manage to do good work. I may not be the soft-spoken, very gentle therapist that some people seek out and do well with. But, I am transparent, blunt, and I will challenge you. You may not always leave our session loving what we just did, but true progress can be uncomfortable and I am here to help you through that

My communication style

For this, again can be different for each person. In general, my sessions are very laid back. I don't stick to any specific script. A client would expect a good building of a therapeutic relationship, I do believe this is needed. As we move forward, so does our progress in therapy. You set your goals, and I help you get there, but we don't hyper-focus on them

My journey to mental healthcare

I hate the stigma of mental health. Mental health is just as important as physical. Everyone could benefit from a therapist just as they could from their PCP. I was initially drawn in my early career to children who have been through the worst of the worst and are stuck in "the system." I have enjoyed so many years (even on the volatile days) of being their advocate. As I continued to grow as a therapist, I was given many opportunities to work with other populations and in different settings. I do this work because I believe in the benefits of therapy and the need for us to take better care of ourselves as a whole person

My goals for you

It's your treatment. You set your goals...and I am here to help! I will give you my opinion and ask you questions that will make you think. Our goals are ever-changing as we progress together

My first session with you

A get-to-know-you session! I want to know all of the things, I want to hear about why you are seeking out a therapist, what you want to work on, what your life is like, all of the things. But, I will also speak a bit about myself and answer any questions you may have.