Sara McClellin Helmer, LCSW
OWNER & PRE-DOCTORAL CANDIDATE
Hello There!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am currently pursuing my doctorate, with an emphasis on health and performance.
I have been in practice for twelve years and offer individual counseling to older teens and adults with a special emphasis on health providers and first responders.
I specialize in grief and loss, suicidality, trauma, major life transitions, interpersonal difficulties, and work-related issues.
Using evidence-based approaches in my therapy treatment, I practice from the concept that the core of recovery from life challenges is based on our relationships with not only others but also with ourselves. It’s through re-establishing, building, or coming to terms with the state of these relationships that we can progress.
I use various techniques throughout therapy sessions which involve listening and allowing my clients to share and process; however, we also may draw, write, color, play, take a walk, role-play scenarios, practice coping skills, or other fun stuff. In my experience, effective and life-long change occurs when cognitive and non-cognitive therapies are combined in the counseling process.
Education
NORTHWEST NAZARENE UNIVERSITY Currently enrolled in Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program; expected graduation, 2027
NORTHWEST NAZARENE UNIVERSITY
Master of Social Work emphasis in addictions, 2012
BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY
B.S., Criminal Justice focus in Courts & Law, 2004
Activities & Affiliations
• American Psychology Association, Member
• Idaho Psychology Association, Member
• National Association of Social Workers, Member
Certifications
• Licensed Clinical Supervisor, 2018
• Certified Brainspotting Specialist, 2020
• Certified Brainspotting Consultant, 2022
LCS MISSION:
Lotus Counseling Services, LLC is a small local mental health practice that provides services to a multitude of clients with various needs. Through providing education and support, Lotus Counseling Services is committed to helping clients make necessary changes that support growth and healing. With the premise that the client is the expert of their own lives, Lotus Counseling Services seeks to help individuals, families and groups as they work on finding strength and confidence to move through stages of change as they heal from life circumstances. It is Lotus Counseling Services mission to help clients through providing mental and emotional support, safety and assistance as clients make these important changes.