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 lover. I was born in NC and have lived in just about every part of this 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 fifteen years, from residential eating disorder treatment to community mental health and now in private practice.

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 interests and trainings in, and use in sessions, are the Internal Family Systems model and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy. My work with clients take an integrative approach to healing, incorporating each area of my experiences, to offer the most individualized therapeutic path.

I've had a deep connection with nature for most of my life and experience my own healing and restoration 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 engaged in an ecotherapy session with me have noted feeling more calm, present in their body and able to access their self and parts with more clarity.

Are we a good fit?

I work with women, men, queer, trans and non-binary adults, 18 years and older. I am affirming and enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community, those in traditional and open-nontraditional relationships, and those interested in exploring sexuality and pleasure.
I am an Embodiment, Anti-diet & Feminist practicing clinician. This means I believe that all bodies are good bodies and deserve care, compassion, safety and life without judgment. I advocate in and out of session for dismantling the fatphobic, diet culture, racist & patriarchal society we all live in.
My clients are typically looking for a more well rounded, alternative, holistic compassionate and open approach to therapy; they've engaged in classic talk therapy in the past and felt stuck or felt it was too cognitive.
Are you interested in the healing relationship between psychedelics and therapy? Me too : )

My Approach

I will approach our work together with a compassionate heart and a non-judgmental mind. I want to help my clients create safety and peace in their bodies and feel connected to their world. I believe in empowering my clients through coping skills rooted in mindfulness and somatic practices, encouraging gentle vulnerability, and helping them identify paths towards Self confidence and embodiment. I use the natural world as a therapy setting and tool; I find it helps those who have felt stuck in the past with classic talk therapy.

Telling your story can be hard. Taking time to build trust between client and therapist is an integral part of the healing process. I will listen and respond to your unique needs and intentions in therapy, acting as your-self's guide and safety net. We can take a walk in nature, hold session in my cozy office and connect from the comfort of your home.

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.

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.