Sara Willig, CSWI
Therapist, Clinical Social Work Therapist Intern
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Sara Willig, CSWI's style
👂 Listener 🙌 Affirming 🥇 Empowering 💠Open minded 🌎 HolisticWhy Sara Willig, CSWI chose to be in the helping profession
Every day, millions of people endure the pain of mental health struggles—whether they’re directly affected or watching someone they care about go through it. The emotional toll this takes on individuals, families, and communities is immense, and I’ve always felt that it’s not something we should ever ignore. If I stand by and do nothing, I’m essentially allowing the suffering to continue unchecked, becoming just another person turning away from those who desperately need support.
That realization is what pushed me toward becoming a social worker. I couldn’t just watch from the sidelines. I wanted to be part of the solution. I felt called to help people regain a sense of control over their lives, to empower them to not only manage their mental health but to thrive despite it. Social work gives me a platform to guide people toward healing and growth, helping them realize their potential, even in the face of adversity. It’s about offering a hand to those who feel overwhelmed and reminding them of the strength they already possess.
For me, this isn’t just a job—it’s a mission. Every person I work with has their own unique story, and their own battles to fight, and being part of their journey is an honor. I’m here to make sure that no one feels alone in their struggle.
Sara Willig, CSWI's approach
I am deeply committed to empowering individuals to overcome their challenges and tap into their full potential. My role, as I see it, is to bring light to those who feel lost in the darkness and guide them toward a path of healing and self-discovery. I often say that I aim to empower others to be better equipped to act independently, to find their own strength, and to take control of their lives.
It doesn’t matter what age, stage of life, gender, or race someone is—people are people. And at the core of that belief is a deep respect for every individual, regardless of what they’ve done, said, or experienced. Everyone is valuable, and deserving of kindness and understanding, simply because they exist. My approach is rooted in this unwavering respect for the person in front of me, recognizing that each one of us has a unique story, and everyone is worthy of compassion, no matter the circumstances.
Therapy, for me, is about helping people reconnect with their inner resources, and offering them the tools and guidance they need to move forward on their journey. It's not about fixing someone—it's about supporting them as they find the power within themselves to heal.
What you can expect from sessions with Sara Willig, CSWI
In our sessions together, you can expect a safe, nonjudgmental space where you are free to express yourself openly and authentically. My approach is flexible and eclectic, drawing from a range of therapeutic styles, so we can work together to find what feels most comfortable and effective for you. Each session is a collaborative process, tailored to your unique needs, where we’ll explore your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors at a pace that respects where you are on your journey.
I believe in meeting you exactly where you’re at, whether you’re navigating a specific challenge or simply seeking a space to reflect and process. I’ll adapt to your needs, whether that involves focusing on practical coping skills, gaining deeper insights, or building self-awareness. Over time, I may introduce different techniques or approaches, but always with the understanding that we’ll only move forward when you feel ready. I’m here to offer guidance, but you are always in the driver’s seat.
Our sessions are your space to heal, grow, and discover. I’m here to support you every step of the way, and together, we’ll ensure that the work we do aligns with your goals. Feedback is always welcome, and I encourage an open dialogue, as I believe in fostering a partnership that values your voice and honors your personal experience.
Sara Willig, CSWI's experience working with the Jewish community
As an Orthodox Jew, my work within the Jewish community is not just professional—it’s deeply personal and rooted in the values and traditions that have shaped me from a young age. I grew up attending a Bais Yaakov school, where I was immersed in Jewish learning, rituals, and the strong sense of community that comes with it. From an early age, I internalized the importance of chesed (kindness) and tzedakah (charity), which have guided both my personal interactions and my approach to my work.
Summers spent at Jewish camps were formative in building my leadership skills and deepening my commitment to communal responsibility. There, I learned the power of connection, both as a peer and as someone entrusted with the well-being of others. These experiences sparked a passion for giving back to my community, which has remained central to my work today.
I’ve also had the privilege of volunteering with organizations like Chai Lifeline and My Extended Family, where I supported children and families facing illness, loss, and other significant challenges. These opportunities allowed me to provide comfort, connection, and practical support, all within the context of the compassion and empathy that our tradition encourages.
Through these roles, I’ve developed a deeper understanding of the unique challenges our community faces—particularly around mental health, family dynamics, and the pressures that come with maintaining religious observance. This cultural awareness allows me to approach my work with sensitivity, creating a space where clients can feel truly seen and understood, not just as individuals but as members of a shared heritage.
By blending my professional expertise with my lived experience, I strive to offer support that resonates on a deeper level, helping others navigate the complexities of life within the Jewish framework.
Sara Willig, CSWI's Book Recommendation Zone
Approaches
- Art Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Equine-Assisted Therapy
- Expressive Arts Therapy
- Mindfulness and Meditation
- Motivational Interviewing
- Narrative Therapy
- Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
- Person-Centered Therapy
- Play Therapy
- Positive Psychology
Concerns
Languages spoken
EnglishPeople I work with
Children (6-12) Adolescents (13-18) Adults Elders (65+) Individuals FamiliesPersonal religious affiliations
FrumJewish community experience
ExtensiveLicensed to work in
New YorkNearby areas within a short commute to my in person office
Bensonhurst, Borough Park, Brooklyn, Flatbush, Kensington, Marine Park, Midwood, Mill Basin, Sheepshead Bay5309 18th Avenue, Borough Park, New York
Payment Methods
- Insurance
Insurances
- Anthem
- Fidelis
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- United Healthcare