Sara Mitchell, LMSW

My therapy style is relational, interactive, and mostly based in CBT, DBT, and ACT frameworks. This means I'm equipped with evidence-based concepts and tools - but together we'll filter it through the lens of your unique identities, strengths, challenges, and values.

Our therapy sessions could include things like:

• Processing what hurts about the past or makes you anxious about the future.

• Exploring the psychology behind why you may have certain thoughts, feelings, and responses.

• Role-playing conversations with a loved one - or between two conflicting parts of yourself.

• Trying a new skill to calm your racing heart or quiet your inner critic (and then practicing it between sessions).

• Getting meta about the therapy process itself, so I can be more supportive and the sessions can be more effective in real time.

• Reading your journal entries, playing relevant songs or movie clips, pulling tarot cards, speaking in metaphors… whatever helps you communicate, process, and reflect. 

I am a Licensed Master of Social Work pursuing a clinical license under the supervision of Ingrid Ponciano. I completed Social Work graduate work at George Mason University and Political Science undergraduate work at Virginia Tech.

Therapy is a third career of sorts for me, with prior jobs in healthcare journalism and healthcare policy. I've seen first-hand how stigma and shame make people hesitant to seek out necessary care - particularly LGBTQ+ clients and clients who identify as disabled, chronically ill, and/or neurodivergent. This is why I aim to be a supportive and affirming therapist option for these communities.