“When I reflect on pivotal moments in my life, I realize that what made them truly transformative was being seen and heard for who I am, for what I’ve accomplished, and for how I felt. I believe that every individual deserves to experience this sense of acknowledgment, as it creates a space for self-discovery and healing. My purpose as a therapist is to provide that same space for my clients, helping clear the fog around them so they can truly see themselves. I aim to foster an environment where openness, honesty, vulnerability, trust, and comfort are the foundation of our work together. Above all, I want my clients to feel empowered, supported, seen, heard, and safe as they navigate their journey toward healing—I’ll be there for you every step of the way.”
Sarah takes a collaborative approach to therapy, working closely with clients to tailor each session to their unique needs and timelines. While she creates a supportive and adaptive environment, she also knows when to gently challenge clients in areas that will foster growth and help them achieve their therapy goals. With a warm and open partnership, Sarah encourages clients to not only explore their emotions but also to leave each session with practical tools and the confidence to apply them in their daily lives. She values the power of humor and analogies, using them to help make complex ideas more accessible and relatable, ensuring that clients feel empowered and ready for the next step in their journey.
Sarah utilizes CBT, DBT and Solution-Focused Therapy to help clients identify underlying motivations, solve problems, and challenge unhelpful thoughts. She emphasizes that thoughts are not facts and can be reframed. For her perinatal clients, Sarah focuses on empowering them to ask for help and build a strong support system, ensuring they don’t feel alone in their journey. These approaches help clients develop healthier thinking patterns and practical coping strategies.
In therapy with Sarah, clients lead the conversation by bringing specific topics or challenges they want to address in each session. Sessions typically begin with an update on recent events, reviewing homework, and addressing any safety concerns. From there, Sarah works with clients to explore the underlying motivations behind their behaviors and identify barriers to success. Throughout therapy, Sarah encourages clients to recognize and celebrate their progress, no matter how small, while also pushing themselves to believe they can navigate challenges and achieve their goals.
Sarah DeYoung holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s in Social Work from Grand Valley State University—Go Lakers! She is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and is Perinatal Mental Health Certified. Sarah serves as the coordinator for the Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMAD) specialty team for Pine Rest outpatient clinics and is also an active member of the DBT team. Sarah, who has been in the field since 2013–first in residential services before moving in to outpatient work, brings a wealth of expertise to her practice, helping clients navigate a wide range of mental health challenges.
