We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sarah Freilicher, LMSW. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sarah below.

Sarah, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?

I met my best friend Hannah in high school and we’re incredibly close. We’ve supported each other through every high and low for over a decade. Hannah and I became even closer during the time we lived together in Portland, Oregon before I moved to Austin. In recent years we’ve maintained our friendship via video messages, texts, and the semiannual visits when we both happen to be back in our hometown at the same time.

Neither of us traveled much during the height of the pandemic so by summer 2021 we hadn’t seen each other in almost two years. I was dropping my dad and step-mom off at the airport when I turned around and there was Hannah! She had flown across the country and coordinated with my partner and family to surprise me. I was in shock and so excited to finally spend time with her. It was a joint effort between some of the people I love most and was truly the kindest thing.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

I am a licensed master social worker and psychotherapist in private practice supervised by Louis Laves-Webb LCSW, LPC-S. I provide individual and couples therapy to adults and adolescents. I began working in the field in 2017 as an advocate for survivors of sexual and interpersonal trauma.

My journey started when I was about 8 or 9 years old. I wandered over to the table and picked up the books my mom was using for her degree in psychology. I remember asking all kinds of questions about the brain and mental health. It sparked a fire inside me and ever since then I’ve been eager to learn and do what I can do to support people on their journeys.

By far the most important thing in my practice is the relationships I have with my clients. So much of the healing and progress that happens in therapy is due to the strong and trusting foundation we build together. This creates a safe space for clients to be vulnerable and look at themselves and their stories in a way that tends to be quite rare. It’s really beautiful and I’m honored to witness it.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

Building and maintaining a network in the field is key for success in the field. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the resources available in your community and connect with other professionals. When you establish those relationships you also establish referral sources to direct your clients to.

My network has also been extremely helpful in providing me with support and unique insights as I’ve established myself in the field. Often through consultation with other therapists or mental health professionals I gain perspective that is helpful for my growth as a therapist and my work with clients.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Absolutely! I get to do what I love every day.

Contact Info:

• Website: sarahfreilichertherapy.com
• Other: louislaves-webb.com/sarah-freilicher/