Sarah Axley , LCSW

Sarah Axley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in Virginia who blends clinical training with real-world experience to support people facing a wide range of life challenges. She earned her education at Virginia Commonwealth University, completing degrees in psychology and social work, and added a Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Aging Studies from VCU's Department of Gerontology. Sarah has provided psychotherapy since 2009 across settings that include an outpatient mental health clinic, intensive community-based programs, and hospital-based care where she is currently employed full time.

She obtained her clinical social work license in 2012 and works with individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Her clinical experience spans depressive and bipolar spectrum disorders, anxiety and trauma-related concerns, substance use and addiction, schizophrenia spectrum and autism spectrum disorders, as well as issues related to grief and loss. She is an LGBTQ+ informed psychotherapist and has helped clients manage stressors arising from the COVID pandemic and shifting social contexts.

Sarah approaches therapy as a collaborative process - whether the work focuses on insight, skill-building, changing unhelpful thinking patterns, or improving communication. She uses a combination of evidence-based methods, including cognitive behavioral techniques, motivational enhancement strategies, and mindfulness training, and operates from a strengths-based perspective. Between sessions clients can expect targeted tasks to practice new skills and move toward their goals. Sarah sees clients Monday and Wednesday evenings and Saturday late morning and afternoons. Sarah Axley, LCSW

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Support

Sarah integrates several evidence-based approaches to meet each client's needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps clients identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors - it is often used for anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and mood regulation. Mindfulness Therapy teaches present-moment awareness and stress-reduction skills, which can be useful for managing anxiety, emotional reactivity, and chronic stress. Motivational Interviewing focuses on exploring ambivalence and strengthening personal motivation for change - it is frequently applied when addressing addictions, readiness for behavioral change, and lifestyle shifts.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Sarah works collaboratively with clients to determine which methods best align with their goals, preferences, and life circumstances, adjusting techniques over time as needs evolve. This collaborative stance helps ensure the work feels relevant and achievable.

Online therapy options include video sessions, phone appointments, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These formats make it easier to maintain continuity of care, access support from where you are, and fit therapy into a busy life while working toward meaningful change with a licensed professional.