Family therapy and counseling in Jacksonville, FL

I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a concentration in Lifespan Development and a minor in Child and Family Development from Georgia Southern University, and went on to complete my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of North Florida.

My background includes working with children, teens, and families in both educational and therapeutic settings, as well as most recently supporting individuals and groups in addiction and recovery programs. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) through Florida Atlantic University and integrate evidence-based approaches including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness practices, and strengths-based strategies. My clinical interests include supporting clients through persistent depression and anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, and identity exploration. I also welcome partners and families into therapy, believing that healing and growth often take shape within our most important relationships.

Hi, I'm Sara Buchanan, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida, and the owner of SSB Counseling Services, based in Jacksonville, Florida. I earned my Master of Science degree in 2023 at the University of North Florida in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. I received Dialectical Behavioral Therapy informed training during her practicum and internship. I also specialize in treating eating disorders and body image concerns.

Reaching out for therapy can be a significant step, and I strive to make the process feel comfortable, supportive, and free from judgment. With over 10 years of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor, I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and stress.

I believe that every person has strengths that can be built upon, even during difficult times. My role is to provide a safe space where you can explore your experiences, gain insight, and develop practical strategies for lasting change. I tailor treatment to your individual needs and goals, recognizing that no two people have the same story.

I value authenticity, compassion, and collaboration in therapy, and I work to ensure that clients feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout the counseling process. Whether you're facing a current challenge or seeking personal growth, I look forward to supporting you on your journey.

My journey began as a deeply personal quest for healing, shaped by significant challenges such as abandonment, neglect, and trauma. Overcoming hardships like poverty, familial substance abuse, and toxic relationships led me to a lifelong struggle with anxiety and feelings of isolation. In my search for relief, I explored countless self-help resources, pursued degrees in psychology, and experimented with therapeutic techniques, yet nothing seemed to offer lasting change.

Everything shifted for me about three years ago when I experienced a transformative moment that inspired the creation of the Blue Lotus Approach. This method has not only helped me heal but has also profoundly impacted my clients, guiding them toward self-awareness and resilience.