Sara Connell, MA, LPC
Hi, I’m Sara! I’ve worked in a spectrum of roles that allowed me to work with clients in therapy rooms, alongside them at their jobs, learning to whitewater kayak, trusting each other while rock climbing, and even playing in their backyards as an in-home therapist. I completed my Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and Rehabilitation at the University of South Florida, which set me on a path to work in both traditional therapy positions as well as in vocational rehabilitation and disability testing and assessment. Since 2019, I have devoted time in my summers to guiding young adults living with life-threatening conditions through adventure therapy programs across the country.
The Professional StuffAfter 10 years of service, I have experience working with LGBTQIA+ clients, those managing chronic health conditions or disabilities, complex trauma, anxiety and depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, those coping with grief and loss, crisis support, as well as those living with the impacts of adverse childhood experiences.
In addition to my passion for the healing power of the outdoors, a major value of mine is that I am a neurodiversity affirming therapist. Neurodiversity refers to the naturally-occurring variations in human processing, cognition, and behavioral functioning. The term “neurodivergent” refers to the minority of individuals who have brain-based conditions or disabilities that operate differently from the “neurotypical” majority - including Autism, ADHD, complex PTSD, developmental and processing disorders, learning differences, and more. I myself am neurodivergent and am focused on providing a safe and affirming place for neurodivergent clients to seek education about their unique needs, as well as learn to cope with social and societal dynamics that can limit self-acceptance and understanding. Together, we can uncover ways that you can live your best life in a world, as author Jenna Nerenburg writes, “not designed for you.”
The Personal StuffI love camping, kayaking, adventuring, and going on river trips with my partner as much as we can. If I’m not soaking up the outdoors, I’m probably bouncing around local thrift stores, trying to develop a hobby of upcycling clothes, or snuggling with my cat and reading a good book.