Sarah Painter, LCSW

Often in my practice I work with people who appear together and successful, but inside feel lonely, lost and disconnected. Many times these feelings are a response to trauma. We tend to think traumatic events only include violence or abuse, but trauma can also occur from more nuanced experiences that break our trust in others, ourselves and the world.

I have a Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California, a BFA in Acting from University of Maryland Baltimore County and am currently registered as an Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences. I am trained in EMDR and utilize an eclectic approach that includes mindfulness, somatic, art therapy and psychodynamic interventions.

Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a theater actor for over 15 years, where I experienced the healing capacity of creativity and play. I have a holistic and improvisational approach to working with clients that engages mind, body and spirit to process trauma, nurture self compassion, and cultivate goals and dreams. The best part of my job is watching clients develop a more trusting and enjoyable friendship with themselves, leading to deeper relationships with others. I specialize in supporting clients working through life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, challenges related to sexuality, and spiritual or existential questioning. 

California LCS 99930