Sarah McVicar

I'm Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) based in Portland, ME. I provide individualized care to adults (18+) statewide, with a specialty in the treatment of co-occurring substance use and other mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and addiction (i.e., alcohol, marijuana, opioid, stimulant and other substance use). I received my master's degree in Co-occurring Disorders Recovery Counseling from Metropolitan State University and have experience across community-based, substance use, and mental health outpatient settings.

I use an affirming person-centered approach that draws from a number of therapeutic modalities - including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness practice and ecotherapy - to best meet your individual needs and have you lead the way to recovery as the expert on your own experience. I work collaboratively with you to identify clear and manageable steps and skills toward your personal treatment goals. I also believe that it helps to bring a sense of humor to the serious business of personal growth!

I work to create a safe therapeutic environment based in empathy and warmth where you come away feeling heard, respected and supported without judgment. I work together with you to set realistic and achievable goals that set you up for success. I also recognize that most of life happens outside the therapy room, and effective skill-building and goal setting follows the genuine interest and investment of you - the client - as the primary changemaker in your personal recovery process!