Sarah Varilek
Credentials: LPC-MH, NCC, QMHP
License:
Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health (LPC-MH)
Credentials:
- National Certified Counselor (NCC)
- Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP)
Certification:
- Maternal Mental Health Professional Certificate Training from Postpartum Support International
- Prepare/Enrich Facilitator
Education:
- BA in Psychology; University of Sioux Falls (2006)
- MA in Counseling; University of South Dakota (2009)
Memberships:
American Counseling Association
Where I’ve Been?
While in college deciding on a major, I was encouraged by my mentors to assess my core strengths and true interests. This guidance provided a clear vision to study psychology and then counseling. From internship to licensure, my work in a community-based mental health agency reinforced my interest and desire to help others along their journey. I continued my experiences as a counselor by transitioning into an integrated team approach in primary care. This opportunity allowed me to fully understand the dynamic relationship between physical and mental health. In addition, I learned that primary care was a gateway for many to start addressing their mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, postpartum mental health, and behavior concerns.
Our Why.
When I meet with people, I talk about the normalcy of mental health— that we all have feelings of anxiety, sadness, and stress—among many others. Life has its difficulties for all of us- they just look different. Counseling helps us to learn more about ourselves and manage these moments. At Embark, we understand the natural turbulence of life and want to be available to those who need a guide along the way.
How I Help.
With my 12 years of counseling individuals, couples, families, and groups, I have had great opportunities to develop my specialties and interests. My experience has included working with people through life journeys such as:
- Moms adjusting to having a baby or addressing their postpartum needs.
- Helping kids to understand their emotions and learn ways to cope with these normal feelings.
- Partnering with parents to guide their children and provide support.
- Assisting teens and young adults moving through different life stages and responsibilities.
- Strengthening couples’ relationships by improving communication and relationship building.
- Other life stresses and mental health concerns such as a grief, anxiety, and depression.
My style of therapy involves a number of approaches tailored to help you make the best progress. Some examples of these theories and techniques include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness and Relaxation, Interpersonal Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. While these theories are important, my primary task is to make you to feel welcomed. I understand that making the choice to change by taking those first steps may not be easy. With empathy, humor, optimism, and validation, we can take this flight together to see the blue above the clouds.
A Bit About Me.
I live in the Sioux Falls area with my husband, two children, and Golden Retriever. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, baking, listening to or playing music, and reading. South Dakota is where our heart is, and I would love to see people, in our communities, embracing the importance of their mental health: people helping people, meeting them where they are at, and working on progress over perfection.
Work With Sarah
This is not to be used as an emergency message system. If you are currently experiencing a crisis, please call:
- 911
- 211 - Helpline Center
- 605-322-4065 - Avera Behavioral Health Assessment
- 1-800-273-8255 - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
