Grief, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Trauma / PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transition, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Coping Skills, Behavioral Issues
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Sarah
Sarah Israel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in mental health and social services. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, attachment, mood disorders, personality disorders, life transitions, and the complexities of adoption and foster care. Sarah has worked with children, adults, and families in home, inpatient, outpatient, and school settings. She has directed clinical teams, trained others in crisis intervention, and led classes focused on understanding the impacts of abuse, trauma, attachment, and parenting.
Sarah graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a Master's in Social Work. She believes in adjusting her approach to meet the needs of the unique individuals she serves and uses an eclectic portfolio including cognitive behavioral therapy, systems theory, and trauma-informed care.
Everyone faces struggles in life, and Sarah believes we all have the inner strength and resiliency to overcome difficulties and continually grow. She understands the importance of being open-minded, meeting people where they are, and creating a safe space where clients feel comfortable being authentically themselves. Reach out to Sarah today!
"Everyone has unique life experiences. I value individual perspectives and interpretations and look forward to hearing yours because I believe we can all learn from each other."
Get to know Sarah
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
My personal, professional and educational experiences led me to the helping profession.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I enjoy working with a wide variety of people and age groups.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I especially enjoy working with clients that have a genuine interest in exploring life's complexities and growing from life experiences.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
That we all have strengths and weaknesses. One of the greatest gifts we have as humans is the ability to recognize them and grow daily.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I choose to work at Thriveworks because the company's philosophy and culture seemed to align with my professional goals and personal beliefs; making therapy easily accessible, flexible and client focused.
What inspires you?
Resiliency
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
An open-ended, nonjudgmental, conversation and collaboration.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
Getting to know the client, developing an understanding of what brought them to Thriveworks, and developing a rapport with them.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
I believe life is complicated, but we all have the ability learn from experiences, challenge ourselves and each other, and grow every day.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I enjoy being active, anything outdoors, and spending time with family.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
Authentic
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 25 years
- Graduating institute
- The University of Pittsburgh
- Graduating degree
- Master's in Social Work
Additional details
Practice information
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