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About Me

Hello, my name is Sara Riggs (she/her) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, embodiment therapist, eco-somatic practitioner, mom and nature nerd. I was born in NC and have lived in just about every part of the state.  I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Appalachian State University and completed my graduate degree in Social Work at North Carolina State University. I have been working and volunteering in the mental health field for over a decade. Most of my experience I obtained from working in various positions and levels of eating disorder treatment.

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I began training and practicing somatic therapies over half a decade ago, starting with my training in the Embodied Recovery Model. I've gone on to receive my level 1 certification in both Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Embodied Recovery, and are in the process of obtaining higher level certifications in both. I have significant training and experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness and Ecotherapy. Other practices I have began training and practices in are Internal Family Systems, and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy. My current practice takes an integrative approach to healing, incorporating each area of my experiences, to offer the most individualized therapy approach for my clients. 

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I have had a deep connection with nature for most of my life and have found my own healing experiences through time spent in the natural world. I found that processing emotions in a larger container is helpful, mindfully walking slows down the nervous system, and checking into nature engages the senses for somatic healing. Clients who have done a ecotherapy session with me have noted feeling more calm, present in their body and able to access their self and parts with my clarity - also that they're fun. 

Education and Certifications

Masters in Social Work from North Carolina State University - 2016

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Licensed to practice in NC - Lic # C011510

Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Appalachian State University - 2010

Minors in Health and Business 

Certificates of Completion:

Embodied Recovery Level 1 2016 - Embodied Recovery Institute  https://www.embodiedrecovery.org/

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Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Level 1 2020 - Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute     https://sensorimotorpsychotherapy.org/

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Trip Sitter and Integration Work 2023 - Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy - https://psychedelic.support/

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My Approach 

I will approach our work together without judgement and with compassion. I work to help my clients create safety and peace in their bodies and connect to their world. I believe in empowering clients through teaching coping skills rooted in mindfulness and somatic practices, encouraging mastery building and vulnerability, and helping them identify their parts and restore their Self.

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Telling your story can be hard. I believe taking time to build trust between client and therapist is an important part of the healing process. I will listen and respond to your unique needs and feedback about our work together. We can take a walk in the woods, sit in nature, meet in a comfortable office or connect from the safety and accessibility of your own home.

Through the Tree Branch

Eating Disorder Therapy

I will strongly encourage you to meet and continue follow up appointments with a Registered Dietitian, Primary Care Doctor and Psychiatrist while we work together. Having a team of providers in recovery helps ensure healing at the emotional, cognitive, and physical level. I will routinely connect with your team of providers; this allows for consistency in your care.

 

You could also be encouraged to engage with additional resources that inform your recovery: support/skill based groups, family/couples therapy, gentle yoga or other movement classes, physical therapy,  mindfulness/meditation, massage therapy, touch/sensory therapy etc.

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If you are in need of a higher level of support your team and I will meet with you to discuss what our recommendations are and help you find the support you need. 

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