About sarah STraus, LPCC

---

I became a therapist because I’m passionate about helping people find hope and healing through life’s toughest challenges. 

I grew up in Northern California and followed my love of drawing to a Studio Art degree from Humboldt State University. Life took an adventurous turn when I met my future husband in a college Latin Ballroom class. After graduation, he joined the Navy while I began my career at U.C. Berkeley, navigating time apart as he went through Officer Candidate School.

A few years later, we got married, and his service took us around the world. Through frequent moves and long separations, I experienced firsthand the resilience and adaptability that military life demands—lessons that continue to shape my work as a therapist today.

Along the way, my early career at U.C. Berkeley led me to pursue a Master’s in Counseling at CSU Northridge, where I discovered a passion for supporting students through academic advising and career counseling. I went on to work at CSU Channel Islands, the University of San Diego, and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, helping students navigate their educational and professional journeys. 

 I took time off mid-career to start a family while we were stationed in Northern Italy for three years. During our time in Italy, Kansas, Tokyo, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, I embraced life as a stay-at-home mom, exploring passions like lifestyle photography, travel writing, running, sailing, bread baking, and mountain biking. I also stayed involved in my children’s education as an elementary school volunteer art mom and PTA board member. 

When my family eventually settled in San Diego and as my husband was getting ready to retire after 25 years of service, I pursued licensure as a Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC #13975), specializing first in couples therapy and later in drug and alcohol recovery. My drive to keep growing led me to begin a doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School San Diego campus, where I also teach both couples therapy and group therapy to master’s-level students in the MFT program.

My pre-doc internship focuses on diagnosing autism and ADHD, and my dissertation centered on the impact of fentanyl exposure on young adults. 

With my background in couples work, addiction recovery, neurodiversity, and complex trauma, I bring an informed, compassionate approach to therapy. Through creativity, hope, and a collaborative partnership, I am here to help others navigate life’s challenges, heal, and uncover the paths that feel true to them. Whether you’re facing a transition, working to rebuild connection, or seeking support, I invite you to reach out and begin a journey of growth and resilience together.