Dr. Sara Villegas

As an immigrant and a Latina first generation college student, my passion resides in working with historically marginalized college students and community. I have had over 13 years of clinical experience and training at private practice, community mental health, school- and home-based therapy, and university college centers including USC, CSULB, UCSB, and UM. My background and education journey have prepared me to work across the lifespan and have a deeper understanding of nuances impacting vulnerable communities. I am currently growing in my de-colonized approaches to therapy and welcome cultural, indigenous, and spiritual practices aligned with my clients' values and beliefs.

My approach to therapy is lead with curiosity, openness, empathy, and authenticity. I work from a multicultural lens grounded in evidenced-based approaches. I am the container for my clients but not the expert in their lives. I am open to integrating personal and cultural values into the therapy room and work hard outside of sessions to learn about my client's unique backgrounds through research, consultation, and teaching.

During the first session, clients can expect to get to know me briefly. I will help orient you to the therapeutic space and processes. We will spend the first session building our relationship and getting to know each other and your presenting concerns. I take a curious stance so may ask a lot of questions to understand your worldview and what is important for you.