When you're used to working hard to reach your personal and professional goals, it can feel like the struggle is just part of seeking success.
But if stress, anxiety, burnout, rules, overwhelm, or self-doubt are running your life, you're missing out.
My work is based on a simple idea:
it doesn’t have to be this way.
I love helping people discover the version of life that is most meaningful to them.
My passion for working with high achievers who are struggling to find fulfillment also comes from my own experiences with the limitations of external accomplishments to offer true purpose and joy.
I specialize in providing evidence-based individual and couple therapy to high-achieving adults who are seeking more from their lives.
Sarah M. Thompson, PhD
A little about me, so that you can decide if I'm the right therapist for you:
I grew up as the oldest child and a classic overachiever.
That led me to Yale, UCLA, and eventually an associate clinical professor position at the University of Tennessee. I loved my work training the next generation of psychologists and providing therapy to the community.
But over time, my job began to take up too much space.
I realized I wanted my life to be about more than what looks most impressive on a CV. So I decided to move back to Los Angeles, start my practice, and create a fuller existence.
Now, I feel grateful to spend my days helping others find out what truly matters to them - while also having the space to enjoy my family and friends, go hiking, read a ton of books, and experience live music.
My goal as a therapist is to help you move toward your own fuller future.
Education & Training
-
BA in Psychology with Distinction, Yale University
-
MA in Clinical Psychology, UCLA
-
PhD in Clinical Psychology, UCLA
-
APA-Accredited Clinical Psychology Internship, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
-
APA-Accredited Postdoctoral Fellowship in Trauma Recovery, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC
Who I Work With
One of the things I love most about Los Angeles is the diversity of our community. I've been lucky enough to work with folks holding various identities and coming from all kinds of backgrounds.
If you are feeling stuck and want to make a real change in your life, I could be a good therapist for you.
When working with anyone holding historically marginalized identities, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and disabled folks, my goal is to provide effective, affirming treatment that respects your lived experience without over-indexing on our differences.
I welcome your questions during our consultation call.
