Sarah Garza, LPC-Associate

Supervised by Dr. Desiree’ L. Stephens, LPC-S, NCC, TLHL LMHC, Certified-CCPT, ACS
Down-to-earth support to move through life's challenges with warmth and honesty.
Sarah Garza, LPC-Associate, therapist at The Desired Journey in McKinney, TX

A Warm Welcome

Welcome! Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for a change, I'm glad you found your way here. Therapy doesn't have to feel intimidating. I strive to create a space that feels warm, genuine, and accepting, where you can show up exactly as you are. Together, we'll navigate whatever you're facing with honesty, compassion, and a little hope along the way.

Why I Do This Work

I've always been drawn to helping people make sense of life's messy moments. My years as an educator and school counselor gave me the opportunity to walk alongside individuals and families during times of growth, uncertainty, and transition, and those experiences ultimately led me to become a therapist. I believe everyone deserves a space where they feel heard, understood, and supported—and it's a privilege to be that person for my clients as they move toward healing and lasting change.

Who I Work With Best

I love working with people who are ready to take an active role in their growth. Whether you're facing a recent life change, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling in a relationship, or simply feeling stuck, we'll work together to understand what's happening and find practical ways to move forward. Many of the clients I connect with most are young and middle adults navigating life's transitions, but I enjoy working with anyone who is open, curious, and ready to create lasting change. Some clients come to address a specific challenge and choose to stay as life evolves, using therapy as a place for continued support, growth, and self-discovery.

How I Work

My Approach

No two people are the same, so I don't believe therapy should be one-size-fits-all. My style is rooted in Person-Centered Therapy, which means I'll meet you with empathy, curiosity, and without judgment, while creating a space where you can be yourself. From there, I use Solution-Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you better understand what's keeping you stuck and identify practical, realistic steps toward the changes you want to make. My goal is for you to leave each session feeling heard, supported, and equipped with something you can carry into everyday life.

What a Session Feels Like

From the moment you walk in, I want you to feel like you can exhale. My sessions are warm, relaxed, and conversational, creating a space where you don't have to worry about saying the "right" thing or having everything figured out. I'll help guide our conversations and ask thoughtful questions, but you'll always have the freedom to move at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Together, we'll celebrate progress, work through challenges, and focus on helping you feel more confident moving forward.

Credentials & Training

  • Bachelor's Degree in Secondary English Education, University of Texas at Arlington
  • Master's in School Counseling, Texas A&M Commerce (now East Texas A&M)
  • LPC-Associate, Licensed in Texas
  • Gottman Level 1 Certified
  • Member, American School Counselor Association (ASCA)

Areas of Focus

Anxiety & Stress

Anxiety can make even everyday life feel overwhelming. Together, we'll identify what's fueling your stress, develop practical coping strategies, and help you feel more grounded and confident as you move through life's challenges.

Life Transitions

Whether you're starting a new career, navigating a breakup or divorce, becoming a parent, adjusting to an empty nest, or simply feeling uncertain about what's next, life transitions can leave you feeling stuck. I'll help you process change, find clarity, and move forward with greater confidence and purpose.

Relationship Challenges

Healthy relationships begin with healthy communication and self-awareness. Whether you're working through conflict with a partner, navigating family dynamics, or wanting to strengthen your connection as a couple, we'll work together to build understanding, improve communication, and create healthier patterns.

Young Adults & Professionals

The years between your twenties and forties often come with big decisions, changing relationships, career pressures, and questions about who you are and where you're headed. I enjoy helping clients navigate these seasons with practical support, encouragement, and space to grow into the life they want to build.

Personal Growth & Feeling Stuck

Sometimes nothing is "wrong"—you just know something needs to change. If you're feeling stuck, disconnected, or ready to grow, therapy can be a place to gain insight, build confidence, and create meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right for you.

A Final Thought

If you're feeling nervous about reaching out, you're not alone. Taking that first step can be the hardest part, but it can also be the beginning of meaningful change. Whether you're facing something specific or simply know you don't want to keep doing it all on your own, I'm here to meet you where you are and help you move forward at a pace that feels right for you.

Quick Details

Clarity is kindness

Transparent pricing, straightforward information, ensuring your peace of mind.
Session Fee
From $80 Per Session
Session Length
45 Minutes
Locations
McKinney • Virtually in TX
Insurance
Aetna, Cigna, Curative, Sana + Private Pay
A bit about me

Outside the Office

A Little Adventure, A Little Downtime

I love trying new restaurants, exploring local shops, traveling and making memories with friends and family. But I’m also a proud homebody who appreciates a quiet night in, a good movie, and time to recharge.

School Counselor by Day, Therapist by Heart

When I'm not in the therapy office, I'm also a school counselor. Supporting students through life's challenges has given me a deep appreciation for meeting people where they are and celebrating every step of their growth.

Movement Is My Favorite Form of Self-Care

You'll often find me lifting weights, taking a yoga class, or going for a long walk. Staying active helps me feel grounded, and I believe taking care of ourselves both mentally and physically is one of the best investments we can make.

My Kitchen Is My Happy Place

Hand me a recipe (or don't), turn on some music, and I'm happy! I love cooking for the people I care about, experimenting with new meals, and finding excuses to gather everyone around the table.
Sarah Garza, LPC-Associate, therapist at The Desired Journey in McKinney, TX
FAQS

Questions You Might Be Carrying

A few things people often wonder before reaching out.
I've never been to therapy before. What should I expect?
That's completely okay—many of my clients are new to therapy. Our first session is simply a chance to get to know each other. We'll talk about what's bringing you in, what you'd like to get out of therapy, and answer any questions you have. There's no pressure to share everything at once; we'll move at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
How do I know if we're a good fit?
Finding the right therapist is important. I encourage you to pay attention to how you feel during our first few sessions. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, supported, and understood while also helping you move toward the changes you're hoping to make.
How long will I need to be in therapy?
Everyone's journey is different. Some clients come to work through a specific challenge over a shorter period of time, while others choose to continue therapy as a way to support their ongoing growth. We'll regularly check in on your goals and adjust our work together based on what feels most helpful for you.
What if I don't know what to talk about?
That's more common than you might think! You don't need to come to therapy with everything organized or figured out. I'll help guide our conversations, ask thoughtful questions, and create space for us to explore what's most important together.
Will you tell me what to do?
Rather than telling you what to do, I'll help you better understand yourself, explore your options, and build the confidence to make decisions that align with your values. I'll offer guidance, perspective, and practical tools, but our work will always be collaborative.

Still have questions?

Reach out to us anytime for assistance.
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Ready to Begin Your Desired Journey?