Counseling for Children, Teens and their Caregivers
Welcome!
Children are a treasure and deserve every opportunity to become all that they were created to be. Children crave being seen, known and loved. Yet we know, that despite our best efforts, life often brings disruptions to their learning potential, emotional security, social development and familial bonds. Seeking support for your child is a powerful act of love - it brings hope. My Christian counseling practice is centered around fostering HOPE. Hope creates intentional space for purpose, potential, grit, resilience, flourishing and healing.
Meet Sara Stahl, LMSW
With 30 years of experience, I bring a compassionate and practical approach to helping children and their parents navigate unexpected seasons. My background as a school counselor and adoption social worker has given me a deep understanding of child development, family systems and secure relationships. I have a heart for integrating a faith perspective into the therapeutic process.
This helping profession is something I have been passionate about since high school. I received my social work education from Dordt University (BSW) and California State University,Long Beach (1999). I have been credentialed to work in schools (PPS credential), have been trained in trauma-informed care and Trust-Based Relational Parenting (TBRI).
As a parent myself, I have walked through green pastures, stood beside quiet waters, trudged through dark valleys and continue to see the goodness and the mercy of God. I'd like the opportunity to help you and your child through whatever season you find yourself in. Life can be lived fully when we invite others to be part of our journey.
My Services and Specialties
My therapeutic approach supports school-aged children and teens experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment difficulties and grief/loss along with behavior management strategies for ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sensory Processing, Highly Sensitive Persons and other diagnoses from a trauma-informed perspective.
Children are set in families and so I value a family systems approach that provides coaching to equip and empower caregivers to integrate new techniques and tools within your home for the benefit of your child and family dynamic.
I am also situated well to provide a listening ear and offer validating support for parents feeling overwhelmed by the daily grind of parenting. Counseling is often not a first inclination, but may be helpful for those who feel they have tried everything and are ready for some practical support and emotional space to allow yourself greater capacity to show up for your child.
Let’s Connect!
If you are interested in connecting further to explore if we may be a good fit to work together, please reach out to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.
sarastahl236@gmail.com
Phone
269-215-4344
In-person counseling sessions for school-aged children and their parents/caregivers on their school’s campus.
Tele-health therapy for teens and adults available in California.
Availability
I am only accepting self-pay clients at this time.
Fees for counseling services are $185 for the initial assessment and $160 for all other 50-55 minute appointments. These fees are payable at the time of service.
I accept cash, check, Visa, Mastercard, HSA
Payment
Testimonials:
“Sara's love and care for people's wellbeing is evident in everything she does. She went above and beyond in helping our 10-year-old son with ADHD and ASD feel seen and understood at school, and we are eternally grateful!” Parents of 5th grader
“Mrs. Stahl was a great elementary school counselor. She was very nice and made me feel comfortable even when it was hard. I definitely recommend her to other kids.” 2nd grade student
“Sara Stahl was our daughter’s school counselor and she made an exceptional impact on our daughter’s life. We are deeply grateful for Sara’s dedication, expertise, and genuine care, which have been instrumental in supporting our daughter’s development and allowed her to flourish and grow.” Mom of 1st grader
“I was always impressed by the way Sara connected with students! She has so much wisdom and experience that allows her to connect with children of all different ages and backgrounds. She asks thoughtful questions and has a way of making complex feelings and situations feel manageable to kids of all ages. It was always clear to me how much she truly loves working with children and families, and the trust she builds with them is remarkable.” 2nd grade teacher
“Sara has the gift of listening which allows children to feel seen and heard and be willing to open up. She gives them language to express how they’re feeling and they feel safe. Children benefit from individual, small group and whole group activities with Sara.” 1st grade teacher
“Working alongside Sara has been such a blessing. She is creative, patient and has such genuine care for her students. She encourages them, listens to them, challenges them and helps them grow in so many ways. Her desire for them to see themselves as valued children of God shines through the work that she does.” 7th grade teacher