About Sarah R. Cottone,
Clinical Social Worker
Hi - me again! I'm Sarah.
Pronouns: She/her
I'm passionate about working with folks to develop a greater understanding of themselves and their world, and work alongside them in solving their problems. I believe in the value of learning about the layers to who we are, what our wants and needs are, then making small incremental changes over time in improving our lives.
In particular, I'm passionate about working with folks on the many different manifestations of anxiety. It's human nature for our brains to develop defense mechanisms to what it perceives as scary or unfamiliar. Anxiety is our brain's way of protecting us. Our brains just don't happen to understand that the anxiety is typically not working in a way that's helpful anymore.
I want to help folks on their experiences with anxiety that surface in the forms of perfectionism, low self-esteem, and social anxiety, during difficult situations, like within relationships, and during any life stage when we inevitably encounter transitions or need to navigate a new or uncertain identity.
How I developed my passion:
Growing up, I remember having very limited language and few tools to label, understand, and fix the hardships faced by me and those around me. I began to learn about the challenges that could come with social interactions, the complexity of relationships, adjustments to life changes, and navigating new identities. I became fascinated with how these common aspects of life could be so impactful and was driven to learn more about "why," and "how."
I began learning about the ways the systems in our life impact who we become and how we deal with stress. I began learning about systems of oppression for marginalized communities and understanding intersectionality. I learned about how the patriarchy affects all of us and is connected to some of our core beliefs.
Throughout adulthood and during my development as a social worker, I reflected on these experiences and found myself thinking of how things could be different. I made changes in my life, which verified that change was possible both for me and, thus, others too. Having had these experiences taught me the key principles that would become my therapy framework.
It became my mission to help folks by passing along the tools I've learned, so that more of us can pursue a life filled with joy.
How I am able to fulfill my passion:
I find a sense of fulfillment in being able to assist folks on their journeys - wherever they may be on them. I'm here to meet you where you are, and walk alongside you as you take each step on your new pathways.
Together we will explore new ways of thinking and understanding your world by deconstructing emotions, shame, your sense of worth, or the need to be perfect. On this journey we may dive into deconstructing the societal narratives around who we think we are or feel we need to be. Or we may simply explore and practice problem-solving or coping skills. We will begin to normalize your responses to abnormal situations and build self-compassion as a vital skill.
I can help you to build assertiveness and sense of competence across situations. I want folks to know that there is a way to achieve their vision for themselves and their lives.
I find fulfillment in the process of helping folks to identify the mixed up or missing puzzle pieces of their life and fit the pieces together; bridging the gap between the now-you and the you-that-you-want-to-be. Together we can find the power that you already have! One step at a time.
Finding Clarity and Forging Pathways
I chose a logo that encapsulates my approach to providing therapy and the outcomes I assist clients on working towards. Sometimes our thoughts, feelings, and experiences with daily life or the past can feel disorganized, often like uncontrollable or stressful pieces floating around the mind. These are represented by the dot points in the logo. Through beginning therapy, we can begin to organize these thoughts and feelings and build insights and connections, learning about each individual dot and how they fit together into one story. The synthesis is depicted by the links between the dots that, together, form a cohesive image of a brain or mind. This image represents clarity through connections, or pathways, with which I assist to learn about yourself and what can be done or changed to feel better.
518-212-7611
Malta, NY
inquiries@srcottonetherapy.com
srcottonetherapy.com
