“I’d tell potential clients and those who are curious about therapy to think of your therapist as someone who has no bearing on your life, but who will be your biggest advocate.”

From an early age, Sarah Hart, Licensed Mental Health Counselor was determined to help those around her who were struggling with their mental health.

Her curiosity, compassion, and open-mindedness pulled her into the mental health field, where she cultivates a steadfast commitment to helping individuals reach wellness and personal growth.

Sarah believes that therapy is a personal journey facilitated by a nonjudgmental and supportive guide, who will always be the client’s advocate. 

Sarah began her career working in hospital and residential settings, and after completing her master’s degree, transitioned to in-home therapy with children, families, and adults. She has worked in the outpatient setting and most recently, in an inpatient psychiatric setting, assessing patients before their admission to the unit. 

Sarah’s various experiences in the field allow her to understand different mental health conditions, while always meeting the client where they’re at and honoring their unique needs and goals. 

We sat down with Sarah to learn more about her background in the field and approach to working with clients online or in-person from our West Springfield and Wilbraham offices.

I went through middle school and high school feeling inspired to help friends and family who were struggling with their mental health. I was also curious about psychology in general, and why people behave the way they do. 

I started working in the mental health field when I was 17 or 18 years old. I worked with patients in a hospital setting, often sitting with people who couldn’t be left alone. Through college I worked with people in residential settings who were experiencing chronic pain and long-term mental illness.

How would you describe your therapeutic style and approach?

My approach to therapy is person-centered, compassionate, and collaborative. 

I’m very open-minded and nonjudgmental, it takes a lot to surprise me. Having worked with so many different types of people, experiencing a wide range of mental health and life challenges, I’ve learned how to safely support people and normalize mental health struggles.  

Above all, I believe that the client is the driving force of their own treatment, and I’m here to safely guide clients towards confidence and clarity.

What therapeutic modalities do you offer?

My use of therapeutic modalities really depends on the client, and what they need to achieve mental health wellness and personal growth. 

I’ll offer Cognitive-Behavioral therapy (CTB), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness/meditation techniques to help gain awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in the present moment. I’ll also offer psychodynamic/psychoanalytic therapy to help clients clarify the roots of old patterns of thoughts and behaviors which may be delaying their movement forward.

What mental health conditions do you offer treatment for?

I offer counseling for adults (18-65+) who are experiencing the following life challenges and mental health conditions: 

• Anxiety/Panic/Phobias 
• Bipolar Disorder
• Depression
• Grief/Loss/Bereavement
• Personality Disorders
• Self-Injurious Behaviors/Self-Harm
• LGBTQIA+ issues 
• Trauma 
• PTSD/Acute Stress

What’s your favorite part about being a therapist?

My favorite part of being a therapist is the relationships I get to form with clients. I genuinely love getting to know people and hearing their stories. 

When I start working with clients consistently and develop rapport with them, I get excited to see them and hear about their week.

What advice would you give to potential clients who are curious about starting therapy?

I’d tell potential clients and those who are curious about starting therapy to think of your therapist as someone who has no bearing on your life, but who will be your biggest advocate. 

So, while friends and family are wonderful people who may be great forms of support, it’s important to have a connection with someone who will be completely on your side. Someone who will be able to validate and listen to your experiences in a safe and nonjudgmental way.

Start working with Sarah Hart, LMHC today:

Sarah Hart, LMHC offers a safe and supportive space for people to talk about their thoughts and feelings and develop coping skills to move through life with clarity, confidence, and compassion. 

To get started on your mental health journey with Sarah, either online or in-person from our West Springfield or Wilbraham offices, contact us today at (413) 343-4357.

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