Sarah Harvey

Welcome! I believe that an important aspect of therapy is not only seeing what clients are struggling with, but also regularly recognizing their strengths, gifts, and unique potential. In my work with clients, I aim to bring enthusiasm, empathy, an accepting attitude, and creative approaches. I understand that seeking help can be hard, but also courageous. Life can be difficult and painful at times, but we don't have to face those struggles alone. I would be honored to support you and your family. Over the past 11 years, I have worked with kids and families in capacities such as nannying, teaching art and dance, and now, counseling. As a writer and dancer myself, I believe that creativity can offer healing and empowerment on many levels. My past professional experiences and certifications also include homeopathy, Zumba/dance instructor, freelance writing, and transformational life coaching. Due to these experiences, I believe that there is a profound mind-body connection. In therapy sessions, I emphasize the use of creativity and play to encourage emotional expression, facilitate gentle processing of difficult or traumatic memories, and enhance a child's sense of safety and resiliency. Recent research supports the use of creative art and play therapy modalities, showing that this can be an especially helpful approach for therapy with children, who may struggle to find words to describe their experiences, frustrations, or pain. In utilizing the arts and experiential activities, children can speak through play, drawing, bodily movements, sound, and color which creates an embodied dialogue. In my work, I appreciate the unique perspectives of each client and aim to meet families and kids where they are, making therapy feel accessible (and even fun) while providing support, offering new tools, and encouraging growth. In addition, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, mindfulness, and Narrative Therapy to support clients and families in reaching their goals. I appreciate the care and sensitivity it takes to address issues in a family system, and I utilize Satir’s family systems theory to focus on communication patterns and utilize experiential activities to facilitate conversation and change. I also use attachment theory to help family members understand their attachment styles and cultivate more connection. In terms of family counseling, I have experience working with those who are navigating challenges such as divorce, re-marriage, co-parenting, blending families, moves, and transitions that may be due to COVID (financial stressors, online schooling struggles, loss of routines). I have individual counseling experience in challenges such as trauma, PTSD, attachment difficulties, anxiety, panic attacks, school avoidance/refusal, social struggles, bullying, grief, depression, anger management, ADD, ADHD, and stressors related to COVID. In addition, I enjoy working with clients in the LGBTQA+ community and aim to provide an inclusive and welcoming space for clients of all cultures and backgrounds. Outside of work, I am often gardening, writing poetry, dancing, doing yoga, having tea with friends, and relaxing with my two cats.