Sarah Anderson

My Story

I first developed an interest in counseling while working as a summer camp counselor here in Western NC during college. I discovered a deep joy in supporting and instructing young people and the power that play, creativity, and connection can have in building a child’s positive sense of self. This experience, paired with benefiting from my own therapeutic support as an adolescent, led me to explore clinical counseling as a career.

I received my bachelor’s degree in English and creative writing in 2010 and my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling in 2012, both from Appalachian State University. I also have a graduate certificate in expressive arts therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS) and have been working with children and families since 2013.

I have observed that children learn and grow when they feel safe to express themselves authentically and enjoy the process of self-exploration. Because of this, I counsel from a person-centered, relational, attachment-focused, and trauma-informed approach. I primarily use techniques from Child-Centered Play Therapy, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). In my work with caregivers, I also utilize Triple P: Positive Parenting Program and Conscious Discipline. I am also certified in Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), a treatment model for young children (0-5) who have experienced trauma. Together, we will determine the most appropriate methods to support your child’s unique concerns.

Outside of work, I enjoy taking dance classes, going to the theater, reading, working on puzzles or craft projects, exploring waterfalls, and going on adventures with my nieces and nephews.

I specialize in:

• Children/ Teens

• Parent Child Relationships

• Anxiety/ OCD

• Neurodiversity

• Trauma/ Life Transitions