Sarah Lapenta-H, LSW, MDIV, BCC, GC-C

My Approach 

My approach is collaborative, authentic, and eclectic; incorporates a holistic view of the individual-in-context; and is tailored to your strengths and current needs. It includes asking tough questions, honest self-reflection, humor, direct communication, and (optional) "therapy homework" between sessions. This style is not for everyone, yet I hear time and again that those open to working together experience amazing transformation and deep healing over time.

 

What to Expect

Depending on your goals, I’ll suggest we draw upon a variety of resources. For example, EMDR or Narrative Therapy supports healing from trauma/distressing experiences. CBT helps untangle unhelpful thoughts/emotions/actions, increase your choices, and lead to improved interpersonal relationships. Creative arts (e.g., writing, music) access another part of your brain to explore and express yourself. Additional resources to bolster your care-plan may include weaving in your sources of Strength and Comfort, Mindfulness/Meditation Practices, and Spiritual Counseling that honors your beliefs and path to meaning-making.

 

What I Want You to Know About Therapy

Words of wisdom that reflect my vision of therapy include the following: The African proverb, "If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, [let’s] go together.” Maya Angelou’s “Do the best you can until you know better. When you know better, [practice doing] better.” Anne Lamott, “I do not understand the mystery of grace -- only that it meets us where we are and does not leave us where it found us.” One of my working assumptions is that you truly matter (just as you are), and I hope you feel appropriately supported in working with me toward and realizing your goals (who you're becoming, in relationship with yourself and others). 

 

A Little About Me

Prior to becoming a therapist, I spent 20+ years supporting the holistic well-being of individuals and groups in the context of schools, community-based non-profits, palliative care and hospice organizations, and high-paced, demanding contexts on the East and West coasts. I continue to offer psychosocial-spiritual support to workers throughout a Westcoast healthcare setting and publish academically in the area of 'loss and grief.’ My sources of strength and comfort include being a foodie, guided mindfulness meditations, a practice I call 'mining my days for joy,’ time with my transracial family and others who love me and get my sense of humor, traveling, and watching witty standup comedy.