Sara Anderson

Licensed Professional Counselor

Sara Anderson joined The Counseling Affect in 2023 and has been working in Mental Health since 2014.

She has experience treating Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, ADHD, Grief, Adjustment Disorders, Anger Management, and OCD.

Sara counsels adolescents through adults, ages 16 and up.

"My role in therapy is that of a 'change agent'. I view therapy as a forum for reflecting, processing and addressing thoughts and emotions that serve as barriers to positive growth and wellbeing.."
- Sarah Anderson

Approach

Sara's approach is tailored to meet each individual's needs.

She uses a client-centered, motivational interviewing approach at beginning of treatment to establish trust and assess motivation for change.

As treatment progresses, cognitive behavioral methods are used to:

  • promote self-awareness,

  • foster a deeper understanding between thoughts, feelings and behaviors and

  • facilitate in setting goals to achieve positive change.  

My life philosophy relates to being present, mindful and appreciative for the relationships in our lives and the experiences we've endured. In treatment, I promote use of reflection to highlight successes and sources of support in helping achieve positive change and growth.

I've learned that even the smallest action can make a difference.

There are times in life when the only thing we have control over is our perspective.  

Trust & Safety

A key component of the therapeutic relationship is trust. It is vital the client establishes a strong sense of trust with the therapist in order to experience a healthy relationship dynamic and feel safe enough to engage in self-disclosure and reflection.

More About Sara

I made a career change after college during my late 20s. In 2005, I graduated with a BS in Accounting and Business Administration, working as an accountant. In May 2008, my husband died unexpectedly due to an accidental drug overdose. Besides the divorce of my parents, this was the most significant trauma I had experienced at the time.  

Within a few years, I returned to school to pursue a career as a therapist. Life adversity, loss and reflection on my own values led to my pivot to a helping profession.  

I love learning about different worldviews and being a part of the change process.

Outside of work, Sarah is a mother, partner, daughter, niece, sister and friend. I enjoy reading, swimming, traveling, eating at new restaurants, exploring, nature walks and spending time with my family.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Business Administration, University of the Ozarks, 2005

Master of Science Community Counseling, University of Central Arkansas, 2013