Hey, it’s me again, Sarah
OWNER, THERAPIST & CREATIVE
My Specialties: I specialize in relationships, career identity, grief, artists & creatives' concerns, and I have specialty training in Gottman Couples Counseling.
My approach to therapy: warm, empathetic and directive. Clients come to me when they want a therapist that deeply listens, gets involved and creates intentional movement. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Psychodynamic, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness-focused therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Credentials & training: I graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelors in Psychology and Trinity International University with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. I’m a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCPC) in the state of IL and am a nationally certified counselor (NCC). I also have additional training in Eating Disorders, Career Counseling, Faith Integration & Gottman Couple’s Counseling.
Values
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We Heal in Connection. Decades of research—including the longest-running Harvard study on human happiness—tell us that meaningful relationships are the foundation of well-being. Strong, supportive connections don’t just bring joy; they protect our mental and physical health. I believe healing happens in the presence of safe, authentic relationships—whether in therapy, in friendships, or in love. You don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone.
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Our vocations are more than just jobs—they are an extension of who we are. Whether you’re building a career, pursuing a creative passion, or searching for meaningful work, finding fulfillment in what you do matters. I believe that vocational satisfaction isn’t just about success—it’s about alignment, purpose, and the freedom to create a life that reflects your values.
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Creativity isn’t just about making art—it’s about how we process, express, and make sense of our experiences. Whether through storytelling, music, movement, or simply reimagining the way we live, creativity allows us to access deeper truths and emotions. At Muse Therapy, we honor the creative mind, knowing that sometimes healing comes not through logic alone, but through feeling, expression, and the freedom to explore new ways of being.
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The world often tells us that being sensitive is a weakness—but in reality, it’s a gift. Sensitivity allows for deep connection, creativity, and intuition. It makes room for beauty, meaning, and a profound understanding of others. I believe that embracing your sensitivity—rather than silencing it—is the key to living fully, loving deeply, and creating with heart.
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I believe in the power of faith to heal, especially for those who seek it. While I don't impose my own beliefs, I offer a safe space for clients who come from a Christian background or those deconstructing their faith, struggling with church hurt, or experiencing spiritual abuse. My approach is open-minded and empathetic, and when clients desire it, I lean into the strength of faith to guide us through the healing process.
FAQs
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The first therapy appointment is an assessment session where I learn more about why you’re coming into counseling. Together we collaboratively determine goals for therapy (ie. what you want to get out of our time together). Most weekly sessions begin by you bringing in a topic you’d like to start with. I will provide direction and feedback, helping you navigate your struggles and shouldering your pain with empathy and grace. Sometimes we will use specific interventions for places you feel stuck. If you ever don’t know what to talk about, I help with that too.
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Couples therapy begins with 3 assessment sessions. You can learn more about that on the couples page. My style is directional, meaning we are never “wandering around” in conversation. I will typically ask you to arrive with a topic in mind, often a conversation you had that didn’t go well, or a conversation you are not having that you need to. I then help guide you through a dialogue that involve positive communication styles and interventions designed to help get some movement in gridlocked issues.
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I love this for you. Sometimes I have clients that know they need to be in therapy but don’t even know where to start. That is so normal and exactly how I can help. Come as you are.
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It really depends. Because therapy is both an art and a science there is no one size fits all. I would say on average, I see most of my clients between 6 months and 2 years.
Starting June 2025, we’re looking to add to our team. If you’re looking for a year-long internship site, or looking to build a full-time case load and think you might be a good fit, please reach out to sarah@musetherapy.co.
The ideal candidate would be interested in seeing both individuals & couples, have an openness to faith-integration in the counseling room, and have a background in the creative arts.