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Sarah Matalavage, LCSW

Outpatient Therapist & Clinical Supervisor

Pronouns: She/her
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Specialty Area

Autism, grief counseling, depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, and psychotic disorders

Education

  • Master of Social Work (MSW)
    • Virginia Commonwealth University
  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
    • Virginia Commonwealth University

Clinical Profile & Philosophy

I have been working in the field since 2010 doing community-based work, center based early intervention ABA, psychological testing assistance, medication assisted treatment programs and have been in a supervisor role since 2020. I have been licensed since 2017 and am approved by The Board of Social Work to provide supervision for others attaining licensure. 

I believe therapy should be a fulfilling process where the patient guides the journey, as their own best expert, and the therapist is here for support and redirection to stay on track with patient-led goals. I believe all people are trying to reach to be the best versions of themselves and sometimes just need a supportive person in their corner, someone who actively listens to them and approaches situations without judgement. I approach helping others from a person-centered stance, using unconditional positive regard and motivational interviewing, to have people continuously develop their skills and evolve into the person they want to be or were all along. I help others view their strengths and help widen their natural support system. I help people hold themselves accountable for the change they want to see and provide feedback when it is appropriate.
 
When a person comes to sessions, they are setting the pace for whether they want heavier solution-focused therapy and a set curriculum, or a process that unfolds more naturally and organically as they are coming to terms with areas they want to change. I use a more direct approach when it feels right, but also introduce treating oneself with kindness and implement a lot of mindfulness skills into the work we will do together.  I hope patients gain a sense of autonomy over their lives when they work in therapy, I hope they leave the therapeutic process feeling lighter and more ready to tackle the challenges that one can face in life. I want a person to maintain the resiliency they have always carried and know that it is okay to be vulnerable and rely on trusted supports during times of need. 

I work mainly within the CBT model but incorporate skills from DBT and ACT wheel-house. I use a lot of behavioral focus in working with my neurodivergent populations and love creating visual supports to help generalize skills. I specialize in Emotional Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) when doing heavier family work. I am ADOS and ESDM certified, making me a good candidate for working with individuals on the Autism spectrum. I work with all ages and am passionate about helping people find their inner happiness.

Fun Fact

​I operate a charitable non-profit bookmobile aimed at getting free children's books into the hands of kids, teens, and families in the Greater Richmond area.
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Telephone:
(804) 447-6382
Fax:
(804) 447-6383
​Hours:
Monday - Thursday
8:30am-7:00pm
Friday
8:30am-5:00pm
Saturday and Sunday closed
​8310 Midlothian Turnpike
N. Chesterfield, VA 23235
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, dial the national crisis number: 988
request appointment for Outpatient therapy
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