Sarah Guarini

Licensed Social Worker, MSW

In-Person & Virtual Sessions
Therapy for Teens 13+ and Adults

A woman with long wavy brown hair and a nose piercing sitting on a black leather chair next to her large, curly-haired goldendoodle dog in a cozy living room.

Life can feel messy, complicated, and overwhelming at times. Therapy offers a space to pause, breathe, and untangle the parts that feel heavy. My goal is to create a warm, collaborative, and judgment-free environment where you can show up exactly as you are.

I work with teens and adults navigating life transitions, grief, relationship or family challenges, ADHD or autism, anger, trauma, and the process of rediscovering yourself after major life changes. My approach is trauma-informed, flexible, and rooted in mindfulness. Together, we’ll use a blend of evidence-based approaches—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy—to support your unique goals and pace.

I believe that healing happens through connection. In our work together, I bring warmth, curiosity, and compassion to help you feel seen and supported as you learn to make sense of your experiences. You may also get to meet my calm and gentle poodle, Ralph, who often joins sessions as a grounding and comforting presence.

If you’re feeling stuck, anxious, or ready for change, therapy can be a powerful space to find clarity and connection. I’d be honored to walk alongside you on that journey.

Therapy with Sara

I use a strengths-based and client-centered approach. As a trauma therapist, I do not believe in rushing the therapeutic process. Instead, I like to focus on creating space for curiosity, kindness, and reflection so that you can show up exactly as you are. Together, we'll move at a pace that feels safe and supportive.

I use a blend of approaches like CBT, DBT, IFS, mindfulness and animal-assisted work. These tools can help us gently explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences with curiosity instead of judgement. By slowing down and creating a little space between who you are and what you've been through, we can start to ease shame and make room for self-compassion. My goal is to help you make sense of your experiences and emotions in a way that feels true to you and supports you as you navigate the ups and downs of life.

Areas of Focus

Top Specialties:

  • Animal Assisted Therapy

  • Autism

  • ADHD

  • Trauma and PTSD

Areas of Expertise:

  • Anxiety

  • Tweens and Teens

  • Cults/Authoritarian Families

  • Depression

  • Domestic Abuse

  • Domestic Violence

  • Family Conflict

  • LGBTQ+ Support

  • Life Transitions

  • Peer Relationships

  • Relationship Issues

  • Religious Trauma

  • Self Esteem

  • Stress

  • Women's Issues

Works With
Teens 13+ and Adults

Schedule
Monday (Evenings)
Tuesday (Mornings -Early Afternoon)
Wednesday (Evenings)

In Network With
BCBS PPO
Aetna PPO
Anthem Blue Cross PPO
Cigna/Evernorth PPO

Education
Bachelor’s in English & Secondary Education, North Central College
Master in Social Worker, Aurora University, 2025


Personal Interests
I love spending time in nature, especially when I get to share that time with my dogs, friends, and family. In winter, I lean into my favorite cozy hobbies, like reading and baking. In summer, I love hiking and gardening. But I'm up for a good craft or project any time of year!

Schedule a Session or Consult

Interested in working together? Fill out the form, call (630) 940-6828 or email scheduling@paderatherapy.com. We also offer a 15-minute free phone consultation.

Insurance or Self Pay

Learn more about using your insurance. If we are an out-of-network provider or you do not have insurance, our rate is currently $135 for a 50-53 minute session. However, we also offer reduced rates in special circumstances. Finances should never be a deterrent for seeking help.