Great to meet you!

I am Sarah Spurling MSW, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois, holding an MSW from the University at Buffalo, SUNY. With a commitment to cultural sensitivity and supporting LGBTQ+ populations, my practice is grounded in an identity-affirming, anti-oppressive framework that respects and validates lived experience.

My approach to therapy

I believe that therapy should be accessible, so please ask me about sliding scale sessions if you feel finances are a barrier to access. I specialize in working with Autistic adults and individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Drawing from a rich tapestry of therapeutic modalities including psychodynamic/psychoanalytic, humanistic, existential, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapies, I tailor my approach to each individual’s unique needs and circumstances. Embracing a person-centered philosophy, I meet clients where they are, valuing their strengths, and collaboratively working towards their goals.

What you can expect from me

Safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. These principles guide an approach that prioritizes physical and emotional safety, builds trust through consistent actions and clear expectations, and promotes a sense of control and agency in the healing process. I specialize in creating a safe and inclusive space for those who have felt marginalized or misunderstood. I believe deeply in the transformative power of feeling understood and endeavor to foster healing through empathetic connection and genuine support.