Therapist
She/Her/Hers
bsarkar@wearehelpful.com
(708) 317-9056
Prior to working in private practice settings, I have been given amazing opportunities to work with diverse, first-generation high school and college students within and outside of Chicago as they navigate not only their education, but their family responsibilities, friendships, and work. It was in those settings that I realized the power of connection, and how so much good can come from a relationship that is built with compassion, empathy, advocacy, boundaries, and understanding. My goal in a private practice setting is to cultivate that same type of relationship with clients so they can grow more than they ever realized was possible. Outside of the professional setting, I am quite the foodie. I enjoy trying new restaurants but more so enjoy cooking myself! I am a daughter of immigrant, aging parents - so that’s special and rewarding for me but can be hectic and a bit emotional in its own way. I am an aunt to a few nieces and nephews - they give me joy. I am the youngest in my family - and yes - I like to believe I’m different than what you may read about sibling order and their personality traits! And I have a spouse who reminds me always that it’s ok to take some time out for me. I am a work in progress - always trying to find ways to better live a life that is meaningful and grounded in my principles and values.
“Our lives are made up of stories. It is an absolute privilege to work with you as we uncover a stronger you in each story you share”
How my lived experiences shape my work
I believe that one of the bravest actions we can take in our life is stepping into a therapist’s office for the first time. Because of this, I prioritize our connection and therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic environment is meant for you to discover your voice, confidence, pain-points, and ways of coping. My ultimate goal is to help you find healing through each experience you share. In session, I incorporate various treatment modalities and interventions based on your individual concerns and needs. I utilize research and evidence-based approaches such as: Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Psychodynamic Theory.
The clients I work best with
I received my MSW from the Jane Addams School of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago. There, I concentrated in Community Health and Urban Development. I have a passion in working with communities of color and am a member of the National Association of Social Workers. I truly believe that each of my clients should be met with accessibility, specialized knowledge, cultural competence, and community resources. I have received specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. This therapy teaches clients potentially life-changing skills to cope with, and change, unhealthy behaviors. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, which allows me to understand and use evidence-based treatments to reduce symptoms.