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Sarah Garcia, Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)

Sarah Garcia, Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)

Johnston, Iowa
VerifiedFeaturedTelehealth Available

Professions: Mental Health Counselor, Social Worker

Languages: English

Telephone: 641-363-2987

Website: Visit Website

My Approach to Therapy

I’ve spent over 16 years supporting individuals and families through life’s most challenging seasons. I believe healing begins in a safe, compassionate space where you can feel fully seen and understood. My approach centers on listening deeply, honoring your unique story, and working together to create practical, strengths-based steps toward lasting change. I’m trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness. I have a special passion for trauma healing through eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP). KAP has become one of the most meaningful parts of my work—helping clients access deeper insight, process emotional pain, and reconnect with their inner resilience in new ways. I hold a bachelor’s degree in child, adult, and family services from Iowa State University, and a master’s of social work from the University of Iowa. My background includes residential treatment, child welfare, and outpatient therapy with children, teens, and adults at Orchard Place and UnityPoint Health. I’m a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Iowa and Missouri, and a member of the National Association of Social Workers.

My Therapy Focus

I've seen first-hand the impact depression, anxiety and trauma can have on child development, marriages, parenting and interpersonal skills in general. My approach to helping improve the connections in your life starts with understanding your vulnerabilities in a safe, judgement-free environment. Then I implement a personalized, strengths-based solution that helps you achieve your therapy goals. I'm trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive, Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness. I am also especially passionate about using my training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to help others process traumatic experiences that lead to depression, anxiety and mood disorders.

Expertise & Specialties

Age Groups I Work With

TeensAdultsElders

Therapy Services & Specialties

Concerns & Challenges Addressed

Adjusting to Change / Life TransitionsAging and Geriatric IssuesAnxietyAttachment IssuesBipolarCancerCaregiver Issues / StressChild and/or Adolescent Issues

Therapeutic Approaches & Evidence-Based Methods

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)Mindfulness-Based InterventionsTrauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

Industries & Communities

EducationLGBTQ+Union First

Location & Contact