Adam Sachs

Adam has career and life experiences informing his approach to therapy. Adam has had careers in journalism and public relations, equipping him with the inquisitiveness, analysis and conceptualization necessary to be an effective counselor.

Adam earned a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Colgate University (NY) and a master’s in journalism from Boston University. He worked as a reporter for publications including the Sarasota (FL) Herald-Tribune and The Baltimore Sun newspapers, and in public relations for nonprofits, including the American Nurses Association.

Adam earned a master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Loyola University-Maryland, a program which emphasized the value of integrating spirituality into counseling.

In addition, Adam has done training in life coaching with the Co-Active Training Institute, which helps him assist clients with setting goals for important areas of their lives, take action steps, hold themselves accountable, aspire to reach their potential and seek to live their best lives.

Adam has current and previous experience working as a tennis coach at large resorts, helping him develop client service, interpersonal and motivational skills.

Adam has worked with children, adults, couples and families. Since 2017, Adam has been a counselor with three private practices in Charleston. He focuses primarily on men and couples but treats all adults.

Adam subscribes to the “client-centered” approach, which emphasizes forming a non-judgmental, open and trusting relationship with the client, showing positive regard for the client, and believing in the client’s resourcefulness, skills and strengths.

Adam likes to help people solve problems, set goals, take action, become more decisive and assertive, and improve personal integrity and accountability.

Adam integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT – evaluating thoughts and beliefs, and their effects on emotions and behaviors), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT – emotional regulation, coping with distress, mindfulness, interpersonal skills), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT – accepting emotions and circumstances, living according to values), existential therapy (meaning and purpose), and psychodynamic and family systems concepts (impacts of family and the past) into his therapy, tailored to each client. Adam uses Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman principles of effective communications as primary approaches in couples therapy, and practices discernment counseling to help couples determine whether to commit to working on their relationship or pursue separation.

Clients can expect to feel validated, respected and highly regarded; have their thoughts and beliefs about themselves, others and their worldview challenged; discuss and evaluate potential solutions to problems and resolutions to conflicts, including assessment of pros and cons; learn more effective communication skills; improve everyday functioning and coping skills; identify top values and priorities; and set goals and determine action steps to improve their lives and seek "self-actualization" - living to their highest potential.