Sarah Bent

After 27 years of working in the mental health field, in 3 different countries, I have an appreciation for the fact that life rarely goes according to plan. I have a BA (hons) degree in Psychology and a Masters in Social work. I have completed 5 years of advanced training in Gestalt Therapy. I have had the opportunity to train in Polyvagal Therapy with Deb Dana.

It is important to me that my clients feel safe and respected as whole people with unique perspectives and diverse backgrounds. I am honored every time a client trusts me with the truth of their lived experience. I am open to looking at things through your eyes and I strive to be respectful and welcoming of whatever makes you uniquely yourself (incl. gender, LGBTQIA+, family/country of origin, race, religion, neurodivergence, intergenerational trauma, etc.). I work with adults over 18 to 102 (no exaggeration). I work clients who are struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, bi-polar, neurodivergence, personality disorders and life transitions.

Currently I am licensed in Maine and Indiana and currently I only see clients virtually.

I am trained in a variety of therapeutic models and practices, and I am willing to use whatever tools and methods work best to help you. I practice primarily from a Gestalt model, where you are the expert on yourself, and I am here to help guide you on your journey of self-exploration and healing. Gestalt work often incorporates evidence-based approaches, such as mindfulness and movement, Polyvagal work, guided imagery, co-regulation – all to bring about a sense of safety and build trust together, so you can tell your truth without feeling shamed, judged or revictimized. As we work together, I hope to help relieve feelings of discomfort and identify patterns that aren’t working for you.

My clinical personality is warm, thoughtful, empathetic, careful, and I value going at your own pace. I think it’s important not to make assumptions about my clients - I like taking the time to listen your unique themes and imagery, and I enjoy learning your patterns and hearing your stories, all of which helps me to better understand who you are, where you’ve been, and what you’re hoping to accomplish. I also believe there is no “one true way” – there are as many pathways to healing and wholeness as there are people walking them. My hope is that after working together, you will feel like you are able to be more comfortable in your own skin and you will be better able to make genuine connections with the environment that you are in, and with the people who matter most to you.