About Sara
My Story…
In 2004, after moving to Asheville and shaking up my life in every way possible, I left my career in organization development and research, and I devoted myself to mediation. I was drawn to the capacity for transformation that appears when we are in conflict and I was curious about the way two “truths” can co-exist. I studied the patterns of attachment, dependency, autonomy and fear in relationships as I assisted couples in the unraveling of that fabric.
A decade later, I was introduced to psychedelics and experienced my own healing and Grace. Psychedelics addressed a curiosity in me about how we humans make meaning of our stories that help us forge ahead, access our strengths, get beyond the incapacitating pain of trauma, grow from grief, and face death.
In response, I first studied death. I read and took a death doula training, which helped prepare me for the increase of death that occurs in the second half of life. Itching for more, I then returned to school to get a master’s in clinical mental health counseling so that I could study these big questions and figure out how to fit myself into the puzzle of support.
The gift that I discovered in this unconventional choice to return to school later in life is the ability to integrate various aspects of myself into the process.
I bring together my curiosity about holding multiple truths simultaneously with my appreciation for conflict, my acceptance of death, my attending to the whispers of the body, and my love of story with my ongoing quest to find my most authentic self.
The Therapy Cottage
The recipe for healing and growth involves three key ingredients: personal intention and dedication, a willing servant to midwife the process, and a safe container.
The Guest House
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
-Rumi
I’ve built the cottage to hold all the unexpected visitors in your being. The wood stove in the cold seasons and the open doors and windows in the warm seasons keep us close to the natural world.
Since there are sorrows, grief, and fear that are too big for anyone or anything to hold, we rely on nature to help us find our way.
The cottage is nestled within the mountains, enveloped in trees, and opens to a stone circle, reminding us of the directions and natural elements of air, fire, water, and earth.
I encourage clients to use the walking circle before and/or after each session to find themselves on their journey and to orient themselves to their path ahead.
Getting Started
Finding the right fit is important to both of us. Therefore, I offer a 15-minute complimentary phone consultation to address any questions or concerns you might have before scheduling an appointment.
Trainings & Affiliations
