Sarah Michels
Jefferson University Marriage and Family Therapy Program
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[she/her]
Intern Therapist
Collegeville, Pennsylvania and Virtually
Hi, I'm Sarah, and I work with people who are ready for a space where they can stop performing and start being real. I see children, adolescents, young adults, college students, adults, couples, and families who are navigating anxiety, relational struggles, depression, eating disorders, and the messy parts of being human in relationship with others.
I bring warmth, compassion, curiosity, and a bit of humor into the room. I want therapy to feel human and supportive, more like talking with someone who really gets you than something overly clinical. I'm especially drawn to working with attachment, family dynamics, and helping people understand not just what's happening, but why it keeps happening.
I use Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Family Systems approaches.
What does Kristen specialize in?
I specialize in working with clients facing complex trauma and relationship challenges. Together, we’ll dive deep into untangling the impact of past experiences, exploring patterns, and building resilience for the future. I’m a big dreamer, always seeking new ways to create connection for clients, meet them right where they are, and remind them that healing is possible. Even when you can’t see what healing might look like, I can hold that vision for you and walk alongside you on the journey.
five things you won't find on kristen's psychology today profile.
one. i believe in “doing it scared.” we are all doing the best we can with what we have. we need each other to truly have what we need. asking for help and connection are terrifying…let’s “do it scared” together.
two. i have a big, messy story. i do not have it all together. when i say “where ever you are, i will meet you there,” what i mean is i don’t need you to be a “good client.” i just want you to be you.
three. i have an insatiable curiosity and an unbiased brain. i truly want to know everything. everything. you'll teach me too.
four. i believe in “checking it out.” our brains are brilliant authors and often tell us stories about what others think of us. i will push you to “check it out” and share the story your brain has crafted about what you think i'm thinking. it is safe. promise
five. i am gay. i have a partner who loves the hell out of me (which i never thought would happen). plus, i have the most incredible, quirkiest, 2-year-old who also dances to the beat of his own drum. i wouldn't have it any other way.
SPECIALTIES
Anxiety
Relational Distress
Depression
Eating Disorders
APPROACH
Therapy with me is warm, relational, and grounded in genuine connection and empathy for the human experience. It's a space where you can stop trying to hold it all together and just be exactly who and where you are.
I believe therapy works best when you stop trying to perform or please, and start allowing yourself to be seen. We'll move at your pace, focus on what matters most to you, and get curious about the patterns that keep showing up in your relationships and your life.
I'm here to compassionately challenge you to be vulnerable, reflect, and grow. There's no rush, no judgment, and no pressure to be anywhere other than where you are right now.
WORKING WITH ME
Therapy with me is warm, compassionate, immensely human, validating, emotionally attuned, encouraging, relational, and geared toward helping you understand yourself and those close to you.
I prioritize building emotional safety first, and then move toward insight and tools at a pace that feels grounded, collaborative, and aligned with your needs. I'm not rushing you anywhere. We'll start with whatever is weighing heaviest on your mind in this moment.
I bring warmth, compassion, curiosity, humor, and honesty into the room. I want therapy to feel human and supportive, more like talking with someone who really gets you than something overly clinical.