ABOUT SARA
Hi, I'm Sara.
EMDR Therapist, Consultant-in-training, Educator.
I'm Sara Forcella, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, EMDRIA-Certified Therapist, and EMDRIA Approved Consultant-in-Training based in Raleigh, North Carolina.
I've worked in the trauma field for well over a decade, and today I have the privilege of supporting adults healing from relational trauma, attachment wounds, complex PTSD, and the lasting effects of growing up with emotionally immature parents. My approach brings together attachment-focused EMDR, IFS-informed parts work, and somatic approaches, with the therapeutic relationship at the heart of it all.
My background in Women's & Gender Studies, alongside my clinical training in social work, shapes how I understand trauma—not just as an individual experience, but within the relationships, power dynamics, and systems that shape our lives.
WHY I DO THIS WORK:
I've spent much of my career supporting survivors, advocating for safety, and helping people make sense of experiences that felt overwhelming, confusing, or isolating.
Again and again, I witnessed the same truth:
Healing happens when people feel understood, supported, and connected.
That's what continues to draw me to this work today.
I believe therapy should be a space where you don't have to explain away your experiences, minimize your pain, or figure everything out on your own. My goal is to help you better understand your story, reconnect with yourself, and move toward the life and relationships you want.
Common Reasons People Seek Trauma Therapy
You grew up with emotionally immature, inconsistent, or unavailable caregivers
You've experienced sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, or other traumatic experiences that continue to impact your life
You notice recurring relationship patterns that feel difficult to change, even when you understand where they come from
You carry lingering shame, guilt, or a harsh inner critic
You struggle with people-pleasing, setting healthy boundaries, chronic self-doubt, or trusting yourself in relationships and important decisions
You understand why you feel the way you do, but insight alone hasn't created the change you're looking for
I believe therapy should be a space where you feel seen, respected, and supported. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming, body-neutral, culturally humble, and supportive of reproductive freedom.
A LITTLE MORE ABOUT ME
I'm a Northern transplant, a first-generation college student, and a former college athlete.
When I'm not working, you'll likely find me lifting weights, listening to podcasts, spending time with my rescue beagles, rescuing Betta fish, working in my garden, or in my own therapist's office.
And yes—I loved Taylor Swift and the color pink
before they were cool.
MA, Women's & Gender Studies,
UNC Greensboro
MSW, UNC Chapel Hill
Education, Training & Credentials
Certified Clinical Complex Trauma Professional
EMDRIA Certified EMDR Therapist
EMDRIA
Approved Consultant-in-training
Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents Certificate
Attachment Trauma Treatment Specialist Certificate