Hi, I’m Sara (she/her), and I’m so glad you’re here.
I know that looking for therapy—especially the right kind of therapy—can feel like a vulnerable and overwhelming process. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, relationship challenges, or just the weight of being human, it’s hard to know where to begin or who to trust.
That’s why I created Sara Sanford Therapy: to be a space that feels different. A place where you don’t have to shrink yourself to be supported. Where your story is honored, your identity affirmed, and your healing deeply respected.
Why This Work Matters to Me
I’m not in this work to diagnose and dismiss. I’m here to listen deeply, hold space thoughtfully, and walk beside you—not in front of you—on your healing journey. I’ve seen how powerful it is when someone finally feels seen and safe enough to take off the mask. That’s the heart of therapy for me.
At Sara Sanford Therapy, I’ve built a practice rooted in compassionate, affirming, and trauma-informed care. This means every part of you is welcome here: the joy, the grief, the confusion, the curiosity, the parts still finding language.
Who I Work With
My practice supports:
- Teens navigating the pressures of growing up, identity, and belonging (Teen Therapy)
- Adults facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relational pain (Individual Therapy)
- Couples and relationships—monogamous, poly, queer, kinky, or undefined—who want to deepen trust and communication (Relationship Therapy)
- LGBTQIA+, kink, ENM, and sex worker communities seeking affirming, non-pathologizing care (Affirming Therapy)
- People living with trauma or PTSD, whether it’s from a single event or a lifetime of experiences (Trauma Therapy)
You can view a full list of services here, or explore some of my specialty approaches like mindfulness-based therapy, ACT, CBT, and holistic trauma healing.
What Therapy Looks Like with Me
Every person brings a unique story. So therapy with me is never cookie-cutter.
You can expect:
- A warm, collaborative atmosphere—no clinical detachment or “fixing”
- Support in building self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience
- Deep respect for your pace, boundaries, and lived experience
- A space to unpack shame, trauma, or identity struggles without judgment
- Tools for grounding, communication, and navigating relationships
If you’re someone who has felt burned by therapy in the past—or if you’re nervous about starting—I want you to know: It’s okay to go slow. Therapy doesn’t have to be a deep dive on day one. We start where you are.
Options for Care
Life is complex, and therapy should meet you where you are. I offer a variety of options:
- Online therapy for clients anywhere in California
- In-person sessions in a comfortable, private setting
- Group therapy for connection, insight, and shared healing
- Therapy intensives for deeper work in a shorter timeframe
- Care coordination for complex needs involving multiple providers
Therapy should be accessible, so I also provide transparent pricing information. If you’re unsure what type of support is best, reach out—we’ll figure it out together.
Grounded in Affirmation, Not Assumption
One of the things I hear often is: “I’m tired of having to explain myself to my therapist.” That breaks my heart, but I get it. That’s why I’m committed to creating a practice that affirms rather than questions your experience.
Whether you’re navigating gender exploration, relationship structures outside the mainstream, or identity-related trauma, this is a place where you don’t need to translate or educate. You get to just be.
You can learn more about this commitment to affirming care here.
My Philosophy: Slow is Smooth, Smooth is Fast
Healing is not linear. It’s not always tidy. And that’s okay.
Some days will feel big and raw. Other days will be quiet and reflective. We’ll make space for all of it, without pushing or rushing. My role is to help you come back to yourself—gently, consistently, and with care.
I integrate several evidence-based approaches, including:
- Mindfulness Therapy
- ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy)
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
- Attachment-based Therapy
- Somatic and Trauma-Informed Healing
These tools are always tailored to your needs—never forced or formulaic.
Want to Learn More?
You can explore more about my approach and philosophy, or check out the blog for insights and reflections on mental health, identity, and healing.
If you’re wondering whether this is the right fit, that’s completely okay. Reach out for a no-pressure consultation. We’ll talk briefly about what you’re looking for and whether we’re a good match.
Final Thought
You don’t have to be in crisis to start therapy. You don’t have to wait until things fall apart. You can begin exactly where you are—messy, uncertain, curious, or hopeful. My job is to meet you there.
Thanks for considering Sara Sanford Therapy. I’d be honored to walk alongside you.