Sara Fischer, LCSW | Therapist in California

“Who looks outside dreams; who looks inside awakes.” Jung

Sara Fischer Sanford, LCSW's style

🥇 Empowering 🎯 Direct 💙 Warm 👂 Listener

Why Sara Fischer Sanford, LCSW chose to be in the helping profession

My journey towards becoming a therapist is deeply rooted in my upbringing. Growing up with a mother who was a dedicated social worker exposed me to the realities of working with diverse and often challenging populations. From her tales of navigating the complexities of a methadone clinic to engaging in play therapy within hospital settings, I was immersed in conversations that were far from conventional in most households. Losing my mother during my teenage years left an indelible mark on me, and I found solace in following in her footsteps as a way to honor her memory. She remains my ultimate role model, shaping not only my career choice but also my perspective on life.

However, beyond the influence of my upbringing lies a fundamental aspect of who I am as a person – an innate drive to uplift and empower others. This intrinsic need to make a positive difference in people's lives is not merely a profession for me; it's an integral part of my identity. While some may dismiss the desire to "help people" as insufficient motivation, I've spent years grappling with this notion. For me, the urge to support others in their journey of growth, change, and self-betterment is not just a desire but a calling deeply etched into my being.

Contrary to the notion espoused in my graduate school years that simply wanting to "help people" is an inadequate reason to pursue social work, I've come to realize the profound significance of this desire. It's not just about lending a hand; it's about fostering meaningful transformations, facilitating personal growth, and contributing to the well-being of individuals and communities.

Today, as a therapist in private practice, I am privileged to embark on a career that aligns perfectly with my passions and values. While undoubtedly challenging, it provides me with unparalleled opportunities to derive fulfillment from my work, to find purpose in every interaction, and to leave a positive impact on those I serve. Despite the inherent stresses that come with the territory, I am unequivocally certain that this is where I belong – where I can effect change, leave a meaningful imprint, and end each day knowing that I've made a difference.

Sara Fischer Sanford, LCSW's approach

In my practice, I strive to embody the qualities of the therapist I have always sought for myself – one who offers kindness, empathy, warmth, and compassion. Creating a space where my clients feel completely at ease and free to express themselves informally is paramount to fostering a therapeutic alliance built on trust and authenticity.

Drawing from a traditional psychotherapeutic framework, I firmly believe that our past experiences, both positive and negative, shape who we are today. Therefore, I engage in a thorough exploration of my clients' pasts, delving deep into their experiences to unearth insights and understanding. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, much of my focus centers on addressing and processing trauma, a cornerstone of my practice.

However, my approach extends beyond merely revisiting the past; I am committed to facilitating lasting change in the present moment. To achieve this, I incorporate mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques into my therapeutic repertoire. These tools provide practical strategies for reducing stress, managing anxious thoughts, and fostering a sense of presence and tranquility in daily life. By cultivating mindfulness, my clients gain tangible interventions that empower them to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and resilience.

Furthermore, I recognize the profound impact our thought patterns have on our emotional well-being. Through collaborative exploration, my clients and I work to understand these patterns and implement targeted interventions to effect positive change. This process not only cultivates a more optimistic outlook on life but also fosters internal peace and contentment.

In essence, my therapeutic approach follows a three-step framework: first, we process the past and glean valuable lessons from it; next, we utilize mindfulness techniques to cultivate present-moment awareness and tranquility; finally, we embark on a journey of transforming thought patterns to nurture internal harmony and well-being. It's not about denying life's imperfections but rather about equipping clients with the tools and insights they need to navigate life's complexities with resilience and inner peace.

What you can expect from sessions with Sara Fischer Sanford, LCSW

In our sessions, your comfort and well-being are my top priorities. I embrace the convenience and intimacy of telehealth, where you can join our sessions from the comfort of your own home, whether you're in pajamas sipping coffee or curled up on the couch. Therapy becomes a cherished form of self-care, eagerly anticipated and warmly embraced.

Each session begins with a genuine check-in, where we catch up on how your week has been, how work or family life is going, and any other updates you'd like to share. This allows me to stay connected to your life and experiences, ensuring our work remains relevant and meaningful.

The heart of our sessions is dedicated to addressing your overarching goals and aspirations. Whether it's reducing anxiety, healing from past trauma, enhancing communication skills, nurturing healthier relationships, or fostering positive thought patterns, we tailor our discussions to align with your long-term objectives. Together, we delve into the complexities of your experiences and collaboratively chart a path toward growth and fulfillment.

As we near the end of each session, I ensure you leave with something tangible to carry forward into your week. While I don't assign traditional homework or worksheets, I believe in providing practical takeaways that resonate with your unique needs and circumstances. This could involve introducing mindfulness techniques to cultivate inner peace, exploring strategies for healthier communication in relationships, or setting goals for prioritizing self-care. Consider me your accountability partner, gently nudging you toward the aspects of life that bring you joy and fulfillment.

Ultimately, my goal is to support you in cultivating a life filled with happiness and purpose. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and transformation, guided by compassion, empathy, and unwavering support. With each session, we move closer to realizing your fullest potential and creating a life that aligns with your deepest aspirations.

Sara Fischer Sanford, LCSW's experience working with the Jewish community

Being part of the Jewish community has been lifelong from a personal and family perspective, but I have had professional experience as well that I am proud to share.

Nearly two decades ago, I had my initial encounter with the Jewish community while working with homeless individuals. It was a profound experience that has remained etched in my memory ever since. The Temple where I worked housed homeless families overnight, graciously opening its doors when shelters reached capacity. Witnessing this act of kindness and compassion deeply resonated with me, leaving a significant impression on my professional journey.

Although my work now encompasses individuals from diverse faiths and backgrounds, my connection with the Jewish community holds a special place in my heart. Growing up in an area with a small Jewish population, I cherished the opportunities to share holidays, experiences, and meaningful connections with members of this community. These shared moments were rare, as I often found it challenging to connect over holidays with friends and colleagues throughout my life.

Now, with the advent of telehealth, my ability to engage with the Jewish community has expanded exponentially. Through virtual platforms, I have been able to forge connections, offer support, and participate in shared traditions with clients from diverse backgrounds. This newfound accessibility has enriched my practice and deepened my appreciation for the interconnectedness of all communities.

While my professional journey has taken me beyond my initial interactions with the Jewish community, the values of compassion, inclusivity, and communal support that I witnessed continue to guide my work today. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and learn from individuals of all faiths, and I remain committed to fostering understanding, empathy, and solidarity across diverse communities.

Sara Fischer Sanford, LCSW's Book Recommendation Zone

Approaches

Concerns

Languages spoken

English

People I work with

Adults Elders (65+) Individuals Couples

Personal religious affiliations

Reform

Jewish community experience

Extensive

Licensed to work in

California

1414 Guerrero St. #1, San Francisco, California

Virtual Sessions

10 years in practice

Licences

Licensed Clinical Social Worker by California Board of Behavioral Sciences 10/2025. License number CA92601

Degrees

Master of Social Work by Kennesaw State University 2014
Bachelor of Arts by Vanderbilt University 2003

Certificates

Certified Clinical Trauma Professional by Board of Behavioral Sciences 2024

Average costs per session

$135 - $225

Payment Methods

Insurance
Sliding Scale
Free consultation
Cash
Credit Card
Zelle Quick Pay
Venmo
PayPal

Insurances

Aetna
Cigna
Optum
Optum EAP
out of network

Sara Fischer Sanford, LCSW

Therapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW

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