Sarah Carpenter

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families in a wide range of mental health settings. Throughout my career, I have worked in hospitals, schools, outpatient programs, substance use treatment, and intensive mental health programs. This breadth of experience allows me to understand the many ways that anxiety, trauma, OCD, relationship challenges, and major life transitions can affect a person's daily life.My style is warm, collaborative, direct, and engaged. I believe therapy can include both serious work and moments of humor. I will challenge you when it is helpful, while also making sure that you feel supported throughout the process. Whether you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready to make a change, therapy can provide an opportunity to better understand yourself and begin building a life that feels more meaningful and aligned with your values.

I believe effective therapy begins with a strong, collaborative relationship. I draw from evidence-based approaches including Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based interventions. My approach is individualized and practical. Rather than simply talking about symptoms, we will work together to understand the patterns that may be keeping you stuck and practice new ways of responding. For clients with OCD and anxiety, this may include learning to tolerate uncertainty, reducing avoidance and compulsive behaviors, and gradually facing fears in a structured and supportive way.

Our first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another. I will want to understand what has brought you to therapy, what you have been struggling with, and—just as importantly—what you hope will be different in your life.You do not need to have everything figured out before you begin. We will start where you are. Together, we can identify your goals, discuss what approach may be most helpful, and begin creating a plan that feels both challenging and manageable.My hope is that you leave the first session feeling heard, understood, and with a clearer sense of how we might work together.