
Positive change often begins with an open heart
Sara Ahmed Aly, CBIS, MSW, LCSW
My Story
As an immigrant, mom, sister, and wife, I offer a dynamic and relatable perspective to my work as a therapist. My clients often describe me as warm, compassionate, and refreshingly real, with a style that blends genuine care, humor, and heartfelt interactions. I believe therapy should be a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel truly seen and empowered to take control of your healing journey. Together, we’ll navigate life’s challenges, and I’ll support you every step of the way - helping you grow, heal, and thrive.
Educational Background

I have a Master’s in Clinical Social Work (MSW) from George Mason University. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a certified advanced wellness coach (WRAP-Level 3). I am also a certified interpreter in health and human services. I am a certified brain injury specialist (CBIS) and I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 trained therapist.
Clinical Experience
With over 15 years of experience in human services and nonprofits, I specialize in supporting individuals with disabilities, trauma, and complex health conditions. My expertise spans leadership, mediation, mentoring, training, and team building. I hold certification as a brain injury specialist and have a diverse background, including internships as a medical case manager in a health clinic and a school counselor in Egypt during my undergraduate studies. While pursuing my master’s degree, I interned with Child Protective Services and Brain Injury Services, where I now serve as a department manager, leading a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including LCSWs, Social Workers, rehabilitation counselors, and an occupational therapist.
Areas of Expertise
I specialize in supporting individuals through various mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and trauma, helping them find pathways to healing and resilience. I offer tailored support for those facing adjustment disorders, relationship issues, and difficulties with executive functioning. As a parent coach, I work closely with families to strengthen their relationships and improve communication. Additionally, I provide specialized care for individuals dealing with the aftermath of traumatic brain injuries, guiding them through recovery and adaptation. For those struggling with self-esteem, grief, loss, or emotional distress, I create a compassionate space where we can work through these emotions together. I also help clients manage life transitions and chronic health conditions, recognizing how deeply these experiences can impact mental and emotional well-being. Through building effective coping skills, I empower clients to regain control, improve their quality of life, and move forward with greater confidence and clarity.
My Approach
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and trauma-informed therapist who practices from a humanistic–existential perspective. I believe that healing begins through a safe, authentic human connection and through making meaning of our experiences—not simply by eliminating symptoms.
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I believe in meeting you where you are while empowering you to gently break through inner barriers and move toward a more authentic, grounded version of yourself. In my work, I help clients explore not only their thoughts and behaviors but also the deeper emotional and existential layers of their struggles, such as identity, shame, loneliness, grief, freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning.
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I blend a variety of evidence-based and trauma-informed approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Positive Psychology, and Motivational Interviewing (MI), to create a personalized and transformative therapeutic experience. I integrate these methods within a compassionate, relational, and reflective framework, always guided by your unique story, values, and pace.
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I view anxiety, depression, and trauma not only as conditions to be treated, but also as meaningful signals pointing to unmet emotional needs, unresolved pain, and blocked growth. My goal is not to “fix” you, but to help you develop a kinder, more trusting relationship with yourself and a deeper understanding of your inner world.
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I strive to create a space where you feel deeply seen, respected, and emotionally safe, free from judgment or pressure to perform or heal on a timeline. Whether we are working together in English or Arabic, I am here to support you in building insight, resilience, and confidence, and in creating lasting growth, independence, and meaning in your life.
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Above all, I hold faith in each person’s innate capacity for healing and transformation when they are met with safety, understanding, and genuine human connection.
Fees
55 Minutes Session: $170
90 Minutes Session: $255
Please, click on the link below to schedule a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation for us to learn more about you or your child and to see if we are a good fit for your needs.
During our call, we can address any questions you may have and help you get started.
We look forward to connecting with you soon!