*Trigger Topics: Mental Illness, Suicide, Trauma, Neurodivergent

Born in Wisconsin, I had a pretty “normal” Midwest upbringing. My parents working multiple jobs to live the American Dream, which allowed me to begin dancing at a studio when I was only 2-years old. -This was the beginning of a life-long passion and love for movement, self-expression, creativity, and healing.

I recall early times in my life when I was free. -Playful, energized, imaginative, and uninhibited. However, things changed over the course of my childhood. I witnessed unaddressed mental illness, grief and loss, and addictions/substance abuse quite frequently. By the age of 10, I had experience the physical loss (death) of some of my closest loved ones, including my Grandfather; the man I admired and spent much of my childhood with. The immense pain I experienced following his death was multiplied by a lack of communication and support from (and between) those around me (and I was even told not to cry). -I was not taught the early skills to manage deep emotions.

To summarize my adolescence: I experienced bullying for being “weird” and never quite found my people, despite of [and likely due to] my multiple interests. -I was dancing, painting, singing, playing flute in the band, learning 2-languages, and transitioned to the “gifted” and advanced placement learning programs. Although I was able to navigate externally, my inner experience became dark and I experienced suicidality for almost 4-years. With the support of my longest friend, I survived my only near-lethal attempt, began my inner work to heal the trauma(s), and love myself.

My adult life has been a conglomerate of experiences since that time. With every low, there has been a high, with some of the most transformative moments happening in my 30’s. I have witnessed the toll of chronic illness; I have experienced intimate partner violence (domestic violence); I was one-paycheck from being unhoused, due to under-employment. And in contrast, I have traveled to many new and amazing places around the world, served on national boards, been recognized with awards and grants for my on-going advocacy and community work, AND I have actively chosen to do some of my deepest healing work for myself.

Choosing to become a dance/movement therapist, clinical counselor, yoga teacher, integrative health practitioner, coach and public speaker, is a DIRECT reflection of my journey; offering what aligns with my lived experience. -And there has been no shortage of adventure, challenge, and evolution in recent years. At the age of 38 I was [finally] confirmed to be on the Autism Spectrum; unlocking many new understandings of myself. In clarifying that I am neurodivergent, an Autisic-ADHDer (AuDHD), I have been leaning into self-compassion with more clarity and freedom.

To continue to be of purpose and service, I seek/explore my spirituality and holistic practices by pursuing advanced, specialized learning and immersive experiences in yoga, mindfulness, neurodivergent-affirming care, trauma-informed care, as well as diversity-equity-inclusion and social justice work.

In sharing parts of my story with you, I hope you will feel safe to share your story with me. I believe we are stronger together, we can learn from each other, and every life has a purpose. -Let’s explore yours.

With gratitude,
~Sara

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