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Sara Santostefano 

Mental Health Counselor Student Intern

With a passion for walking alongside others on their journey toward healing and growth, my goal is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel genuinely seen, heard, and valued. I approach each individual with respect for their unique story, strengths, and the life experiences that have shaped who they are. I believe in the power of connection and in honoring the resilience people carry, even through life’s most difficult moments.

 

My counseling approach is person-centered and integrative, drawing from evidence-based practices while tailoring the process to meet each individual’s specific needs. Whether you're navigating life transitions, healing from trauma, or seeking greater self-understanding, I am here to support you with empathy and authenticity.

I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Before beginning my graduate studies, I worked as a Social Worker with children and families in the dependency system. That experience taught me the importance of compassion, advocacy, and the profound impact of early relationships and environments which continues to inform my work today.

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As a student therapist, Sara works under the supervision of a licensed professional to ensure the highest quality of care for her clients.

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1 free session $45-$65 a session moving forward

Specializations:

Credentials & Experience:

  • Self-Esteem

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Trauma

  • Perfectionism

  • Women's issues

  • Life transitions

  • Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Southern
    New Hampshire University (in progress)

  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of South Florida

Sara sees clients of all ages 

Specializations:

  • Self-Esteem: Building self-esteem is essential for overall mental health and well-being. I help clients develop a positive and compassionate relationship with themselves, challenge negative self-talk, and cultivate a sense of self-worth and confidence.
     

  • Women's Issues: I am sensitive to the unique challenges women face and work with clients to address issues related to gender, relationships, and personal growth.
     

  • Trauma: I am trained to work with individuals who have experienced traumatic events, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, and provide a supportive environment to process and integrate their experiences.
     

  • Anxiety: I utilize evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help individuals manage and reduce symptoms of anxiety, including panic attacks, phobias, and generalized anxiety.
     

  • Depression: I am trained to help individuals understand and manage symptoms of depression, including feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns. I use evidence-based techniques, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies
     

  • Life Transitions: I understand that significant life changes, such as moving, job changes, or relationship transitions, can be challenging. I am here to support individuals as they navigate these transitions and develop coping strategies to manage stress and uncertainty.
     

  • Stress: I understand that stress is a common experience for many individuals. I work with clients to identify sources of stress and develop coping strategies, such as time management and boundary setting, to manage stress and improve overall well-being.

Modalities:

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  • Person-Centered Therapy
    At the core of my approach is the belief that clients are the experts in their own lives. I provide an empathetic, nonjudgmental space where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts and emotions at their own pace.
     

  • Integrative Approach
    I draw from multiple evidence-based frameworks to personalize treatment and support holistic growth:

  • Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT): Helps clients identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts and beliefs, promoting emotional regulation and resilience.

  • Adlerian Therapy: Focuses on understanding early experiences, social dynamics, and personal goals to foster self-awareness and purpose.

  • Relational-Cultural Therapy (RCT): Emphasizes the healing power of connection and addresses the impact of relationships and systemic influences on wellbeing.

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