Sara Stenersen

To trust that it is okay to let yourself be here. Unafraid. Alive. That is what the gift of our work together can yield. Trauma prohibits us from living in the here and now. It robs us of connection: to safety, to those we love, and to our deepest, truest Self. Trauma fractures us into wounded and protective parts that overwhelm our nervous system. I hold deep respect for all parts of you, especially the ones that have been shamed, criticized, or pathologized. I understand that you have done exactly what you needed to do in order to make it through, and that you are ready to explore the transition from survival mode to freedom.

I am trained in Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing to help individuals heal from traumatic grief, relational trauma, the chronic trauma of being a minority (Women! Queer! Disabled! Chronically ill! Neurodivergent! BIPOC!), and acute trauma such as assault, accident, or injury.

You’ve survived enough intolerable experiences; therapy should not be another one! A felt sense of safety is the foundation of our work together. We will take as much time up front to help your body feel comfortable in the therapeutic process.