Sara Wickizer

I am a highly seasoned clinician with years of experience in both mental health care and substance use services. My professional journey began in the substance use field, sand a deep understanding of the co-occurring mental health challenges many individuals face.

My clinical experience includes providing outpatient individual therapy and supporting individuals experiencing acute psychosis in inpatient psychiatric settings. After gaining many years of clinical experience, I expanded into leadership roles, providing clinical supervision and program oversight while managing co-occurring programs across New Jersey. I am also passionate about building the next generation of clinicians and serve part-time as an adjunct professor. I earned my degrees from Rutgers University School of Social Work and Honors College, where I was a member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society and graduated summa cum laude.

I bring a diverse background and extensive knowledge to my clinical practice, having worked across a wide range of mental health and substance use settings. Over the years, I have gained experience with many different diagnoses, from anxiety and depression to trauma and co-occurring disorders. My expertise spans multiple evidence-based approaches, including ACT, CBT, DBT, SFT, trauma-informed care, person-centered therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and psychoanalytic techniques. This breadth allows me to tailor treatment to each individual’s unique needs, strengths, and goals, ensuring a personalized, effective, and compassionate approach to care.

My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and rooted in building trust and safety. I utilize evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT skills, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed, person-centered care. I believe in meeting individuals where they are, empowering them to develop insight, strengthen coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change. I specialize in treating mental health and substance use disorders through an individualized, supportive approach.

In your first session with me, you can expect a warm, personable, and welcoming environment where you feel comfortable sharing your story. I take time to listen deeply, understand your concerns, and explore your goals for therapy. I easily connect with others, building trust and rapport from the start, so you can feel safe and supported. Together, we’ll begin to identify challenges, explore coping strategies, and create a plan tailored to your unique needs, setting the foundation for meaningful and lasting growth.