Sarah Woodward

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Maryland with over 20 years of experience supporting children, adolescents and young adults. I earned my Masters Degree in Social Work 1997 and have worked across a wide range of settings, including child and adolescent psychiatry.

My work is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a strong focus on helping clients manage anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and the effects of trauma. I also have experience with women and older adults, which informs a thoughtful, developmentally sensitive approach to care.

I believe therapy should feel collaborative, supportive and practical. I strive to create a safe, affirming space where clients feel understood and empowered to build skills, confidence and resilience. I primarily work with children ages 6 through young adulthood, partnering with families with helpful to support lasting change.

I have specialized training in trauma, anxiety and grief. I use mostly Cognitive Behavior Therapy (as well as Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD/phobias) which effectively treats multiple conditions in the here and now. I also integrate techniques from other therapies such as DBT and ACT.

Think of me as a teammate on your path to healing. I start developing a plan with you by the end of the first meeting with specific ideas for strategies that will help. Progress is further supported by the tasks you decide to do between sessions as well, such as practicing deep breathing.