Sara started her career at First Step Services in August 2008 when she began as a master’s level intern from Appalachian State University. She received Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology with a concentration in Child Development, and Sociology with a concentration in Family Development from Appalachian State University in May 2005. Sara continued her education, and received a Master’s degree in Community Counseling with an emphasis in Addictions Counseling in December 2008. As an intern, Sara gained experience working with individuals with substance use disorders at a women’s therapeutic community located in Western North Carolina and moved to Wake County to gain more experience in providing outpatient services.
Sara is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors Associate, Certified Clinical Supervisor, and National Certified Counselor. She is also a certified Prime for Life instructor and approved to provide Alcohol and Drug Education Traffic School (ADETS) for NC DWI Services. Formerly one of our Intensive Outpatient Patient Program counselors, Sara gained experience in working with adults, adolescents and family members struggling with substance use disorders and provided substance use assessments, group, individual and family counseling. She utilizes Motivational Enhancement Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while incorporating a Person Centered and Systems Theory approach to working with individuals with substance use disorders. She is also interested in using expressive arts, mindfulness and meditation, and yoga in the clinical setting.
Sara has moved up in management over her years at First Step Services, LLC. She was initially the Programs Coordinator and was asked to open the Cary location in 2013. Shortly after the Cary office opened, she was promoted to Associate Clinical Director and traveled between our multiple offices. In 2015 she was promoted to Clinical Director and provides supervision and training to staff and interns. She is primarily based out of the Raleigh office but still maintains an office in Cary as well.
Sara may be reached by email at sara@firststepnc(dot)com or by phone at (919) 803-8898.
