Sara Garcia, LMFTA
Therapeutic Approach
If you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the present, stuck or fearful of the future, or lost in grieving the past, you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. I am dedicated to working with individuals from all walks of life, respecting the diverse beliefs and backgrounds of my clients. With my expertise, compassion, and dedication, you can trust that you are in capable hands on your path to healing.
Life is complex, and every person who comes through my door is seen as a unique individual with profoundly personal struggles. I take a collaborative and non-judgmental approach to therapy as I get to know you and what makes you who you are. As we begin this journey together, building a warm, safe, and secure therapeutic relationship where you feel seen, valued, and supported is my first priority.
Your grief, pain, sorrows, and disappointments are worthy of care and attention. I maintain a curiosity that helps clients process their experiences and discover new and surprising revelations about themselves, providing clarity, perspective, personal and relational growth, and self-knowledge. I help clients find meaning in their circumstances, honoring their pain and distress while also noticing and celebrating the good.
Problematic behaviors often stem from attachment wounds, unspoken pain, suppressed emotions, and unprocessed trauma, which can disconnect us from our basic needs, fears, and longings. In my therapy room, you will find an empathetic space where these needs, fears, and longings are valued, and where healing and transformation are possible.
I am particularly passionate about working with couples to heal what needs healing so they can experience secure bonding that lasts a lifetime. I absolutely love helping couples understand and transform their emotional responses, creating deeper connections and secure attachments without either person having to sacrifice who they are.
My therapeutic approach centers on reframing negative core beliefs through corrective experiences and emotional expression, and by identifying strengths and solutions within each person. I help clients envision a future where they have overcome their burdens, connecting them with their inner resilience. Reach out to me today to embark on your journey toward a more fulfilling life.
Specialized Training
I am passionate about walking alongside individuals and couples navigating life’s challenges. As a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, my training allows me to integrate multiple therapeutic approaches including:
- Attachment Theory
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Lifespan Integration (LI)
- Person-Centered Therapy
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- Narrative Therapy
- Experiential Therapy
- Gottman Method (Level 1)
- Bowenian Family Therapy
- Structural Family Therapy, and more
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Christian Counseling from Liberty University and a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Whitworth University. In addition to my foundational education, I have pursued specialized training in Lifespan Integration (LI) Levels 1 & 2, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Externship, and EFT Core Skills.
I wholeheartedly believe in these models of therapy, and as an attachment therapist, EFT and LI equip me to address complex relational issues, supporting clients dealing with various concerns such as:
- Emotional dysregulation
- Relational conflict/distress
- Trauma
- PTSD
- Grief and loss
- Spirituality
- Low self-worth
- Loss of identity
- Life transitions
- Abandonment
- Anxiety
- Depression
Background and Personal Life
Raised on the picturesque Kenai Peninsula in Homer, Alaska, my journey has taken me across various states due to my role as a military spouse, living in Washington, Missouri, Hawaii, and Alaska. Prior to therapy, I was a professional photographer, honing my skills in capturing and appreciating the depth of human emotion. I enjoy spending time with my husband, especially when we’re cooking up delicious meals together. I love being outdoors, whether camping, exploring, or hiking with my loyal companion, Ryder, my beloved dog by my side. Additionally, I am blessed to have raised two amazing children, who are my pride and joy.