Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Merrillville, IN

I believe that therapy is a space that belongs to you and is nurtured by your therapist for you. Through this healing environment, I give you the tools to change self-defeating behaviors.

My name is Sarah. I am excited to get to know you! I am a board certified LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor). I have primarily worked in a community mental health setting, which has given me a very diversified experience. I am an animal lover, a coach, a mom, and a devoted partner. I am a member of the LGBT+ community. I work with people of all ages and believe that everyone has the ability to achieve their best self.

I love helping others overcome mental obstacles to allow them to reach their goals. I strongly value the therapeutic relationship and use it as a catalyst for positive change. I have over 8 years of experience in private practice and have helped people through a wide range of issues. I have unique experience in sport and performance psychology. I have two post undergraduate degrees in mental health counseling from Indiana University and an undergraduate degree in psychology from Butler University. I bring my knowledge, experience, and value system to each of my clients.

I’m a therapist who believes real change happens when you feel both understood and challenged. I won’t just sit back and nod—I’ll help you make sense of what’s going on, and we’ll actively work toward shifting it.

My style is warm, direct, and collaborative. I create a space where you can be honest without feeling judged, while also helping you notice patterns that may be keeping you stuck. I draw from approaches like emotionally focused therapy (EFT), parts work, and skills-based strategies when helpful, but I tailor everything to you rather than forcing you into a one-size-fits-all model.

I work with adults and couples navigating things like relationship stress, trauma, anxiety, identity questions, and major life transitions. With couples, I focus on helping you understand the deeper emotional dynamics underneath conflict—not just the surface arguments—so you can rebuild trust, connection, and a sense of security.

If you’re looking for therapy that goes beyond just talking and moves toward real, lasting change, we’ll likely be a good fit.

I did not stumble into this work — I chose it, and I choose it every day. I am Bianca Gist, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Indiana.

I am also a former collegiate athlete, and that background shapes how I show up — I know what it feels like to carry a lot and still need someone genuinely in your corner. My experience is rooted in the spaces where people need the most and are often given the least — Chicago Public Schools, foster care, home-based services, and community mental health. Through my private practice, Her Sole Purpose LLC, I work with children, adolescents, student-athletes, and families using CBT, ACT, and trauma-informed care. I use what works for the person in front of me, not a one-size-fits-all approach. I work well with people navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and the weight of environments that were not built for them. Therapy with me is honest, grounded, and focused on what actually helps you move forward — not just cope.

If any of this resonates, I would love to connect.

I have spent over 40 years teaching, training, and developing mental health programs for individuals from 4 to 84 find hope once again. I am a life-long learner and add at least one certificate a year to ensure clients are given multiple approaches to what they encounter. I am very honest and direct, but also understand the need for pause and reflection. You know the level of your pain and suffering. My job is to meet you where you are and lead you to the place you want to go.