Whether you are seeking therapy to find a deeper purpose and direction in your life, or you are experiencing life’s challenges in the form of pain, anxiety, depression, loss, or conflict, I am here to help.
I believe that every human is shaped by an interplay of factors that come from within and without the person. That is to say that the power of therapy comes from a deeper understanding of the forces inside and out that shape a person into a unique individual. I also find that the center of psychotherapy is the relationship--the relationship with those in one’s life, the relationship with the therapist, and the relationship with oneself. Psychotherapy comes from the root word “psyche” which means “human soul.” My experience as a psychotherapist of 18 years is that together we can explore the human soul and find out what is at the root of the pain or conflict in one’s life as well one’s truest purpose.
Areas of Expertise
Anxiety and Depression: Although anxiety, depression and other mood disorders are relatively common, it doesn’t make it any less daunting and at times scary for the person experiencing it. I have had many years of experience working with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. It is of utmost importance that a person has a professional to talk to and gain guidance from in terms of how to cope with and treat these issues.
Grief and Loss: Loss often comes in the form of losing a loved one, but it can also be the experience of losing an important part of one’s life such as a job, a community, an identity and so on. Grief is a natural and painful process that results from loss. The process of loss and grief can be isolating and, at times, relentless. It is not a linear process and may take a while for a person to feel better. I am passionate about supporting those going through this natural but challenging and vulnerable process. The goal is not to forget the loss but to gradually feel less overwhelmed and disoriented by it and to eventually move into a place of greater acceptance and peace.
Perinatal mental health of women/Postpartum Depression: I specialize in all the stages of perinatal mental health of mothers from conception (and infertility complications) to the first two years after a baby is born. I understand when mood states are impacted at any or all stages of this process. It is a misconception that the only complication is postpartum. Depression, anxiety and other mental health issues can occur in any of these stages. I am here to support mother, partner, and family through this process.
Parent Guidance: Parenting young children can be extremely difficult and isolating to parents and other caregivers. I specialize in guiding parents through typical challenges of rearing toddlers and preschoolers as well as more specific complicating factors such as developmental delays, autism, and serious behavioral and emotional issues.
Spanish and Cultural Competence: I am bilingual in Spanish and have been providing therapy in Spanish for over a 18 years. I have a passion for working with people from different cultures. I am culturally competent and trained to understand the way that different cultural norms play into the unique qualities of an individual and their experience of the world. I approach every client with an open mind and a judgment-free stance. This includes the LGBTQ community. I welcome all individuals into my practice and will treat every person with deep respect.
My Approach
I have been a psychotherapist for 18 years. My therapy style is based on the foundation of respect, understanding, non-judgment and honesty. I work with adolescents, adults, parents of young children, and families. My primary model is psychodynamic which is insight-oriented. I also use a mixture of other evidenced-based models such as solution-focused therapy and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy). I incorporate mindfulness and being present in the moment to gain insight into our thoughts and how they impact our mood states and our lives. Through this process, I work alongside people to identify and cope with their feelings, thoughts, and experiences so that they are no longer consuming or overwhelming. We will work together to find a place of greater insight into what brings one more happiness and sense of peace.
Get in touch.
sarahstevenstherapy@gmail.com
801 Oberlin Road Suite 310
Raleigh, NC 27605
Tel: (919) 578-7938
Fax: (910) 782-1135