I have always been an intuitive, empathic, and inquisitive human and as corny as it may sound, helping to bring “world peace” has always been a consistent life goal of mine. However, from as early as I can remember, I was always held back in my personal and professional journeys because of the multitude of thoughts and panic feelings circling throughout my head and body. My personal struggles with anxiety and depression, brought me into confronting my own demons with the help of professionals, and through that process I realized that my talents and passions aligned with helping others work though their own internal struggles—my tiny, humble contribution to bringing that world peace, I so hope and wish to provide. I realized early on that a) there is no right way to be, b) and all humans are wildly perfect for every flaw, and imperfection society may throw at us. I believe in the simple truths of respect for one another, and believe in the value of human connection, regardless of any background.
After graduating college and leaving the beautiful cocoon that is Boulder, CO, I found myself in a “quarter life crisis,” type place. I felt stuck, but ready for my next move. My passion for “bringing world peace” was still a constant thought in the back of my head. My work and passion for the homeless and individuals afflicted with addiction/severe mental illness brought me to New Delhi, India to work side by side with street children. While there, I learned to incorporate natural empathy, non-verbal communication and holistic spirituality to help nurture and teach these children daily life skills, while also building their self esteem. The trip was quite possibly the most eye opening experience of my life, and it taught me the power of trusting myself through the vulnerable experiences that life constantly throw at us.
In 2012, after this life-changing journey in India, I found myself on a new journey, in Chicago, IL with the same passions for helping those who desperately needed a voice, or an advocate. In 2013, I started my Masters degree training in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Adler University, and found that social justice for all would be an underlying driving force for me throughout my career.
I have experience working in Drug/Alcohol Rehabilitation centers, individual and group counseling on the West Side of Chicago with homeless clients, severe mental illness, and couples and family therapy. Upon graduating with my Masters degree in 2015, I started administering Neurofeedback, as well as counseling services in a private practice in the suburbs of Chicago, IL.
I have strong experience working with all age groups (6-75 yo), with a specialty in adolescence and young adulthood. I currently work closely with all age groups, and all degrees of mental illness, with a specialty in depression, anxiety, and panic disorder. I also have experience working with the LGBTQ community and have worked closely with starting a LGBTQ services website in the Chicago land area.
I counsel from an integrative background, instilling Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, Existential ideals as well as humanistic validation throughout my sessions. I believe in establishing rapport through a combination of professional boundaries and establishing a learning journey together. I tend to incorporate humor, and self-disclosure of my own journey into my sessions as well. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have, and I look forward to tackling life’s challenges together.
Additional areas of focus: LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Intimacy-related issues, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Depression, ADHD, Codependency, Communication problems, Life purpose, Self-love, Social anxiety and phobia, Young adult issues
IL LCPC 180.012389
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Sarah Hope. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Sarah is the best therapist I’ve had by far. Her focus is comfortability before diving into heavy topics.
Written on Aug 23, 2022 after therapy with Sarah for 2 years and 9 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and coping with life changes
Sarah has changed my life! I love being able to work with her, and I always look forward to our sessions
Written on Oct 25, 2021 after therapy with Sarah for 1 year and 11 months on issues concerning depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, and self esteem
Sarah has been great since we started these sessions over a year ago! She is very good at adjusting to my constantly changing schedule and is always quick to respond when needed!
Written on Oct 25, 2020 after therapy with Sarah for 1 year and 1 month on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, self esteem, and coping with life changes
Sarah is thorough, non-judgmental, relatable, and I have never met a counsellor who I feel truly cares for her clients more. Incredibly easy to talk to and empowering!
Written on Sep 11, 2020 after therapy with Sarah for 2 weeks