Dr. Sara Coria-Macias Psy.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Call (708)429-6999, ext. 267
Contact Dr. Coria-Macias by email.
“Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.”
– Brené Brown
The decision to enter into therapy can be difficult and scary. I try to make this process less stressful and put individuals at ease. I meet every individual where they are at in the process of change and strive to provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment. I feel very passionate about the importance and value of therapy because I believe every individual can benefit from therapy at some point in his or her life.
I believe the following metaphor truly captures my philosophy on life and therapy. We walk around in life collecting our experiences, both positive and painful ones, and we put them in our imaginary backpacks. Sometimes, our “backpacks” can become heavy, unbearable and we can no longer carry them by ourselves. As a therapist, I help individuals unload their backpacks and feel less burdened or overwhelmed. I work with individuals to help them make changes that will move them closer to feeling better and living the life he or she desires.
Therapy Services
“I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.” – Brené Brown
I provide individual, couples, family, and group psychotherapy for clients of all ages. I offer a collaborative and supportive environment where individuals create their own goals for therapy. I believe the therapeutic relationship helps individuals move towards a life with peace and happiness. In addition, people can change and lead the life they desire when they explore their past experiences and process strong emotions.
I specialize in working with children and adolescents, especially at-risk youth who are struggling with past traumas and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Mood Disorders, and Anxiety Disorders. I provide therapy services in English and Spanish.
Psychological Testing
Psychological testing can be helpful for the following reasons:
- Determine how a person’s mood and personality impacts his/her daily life
- Determine an individual’s strengths
- Help students figure out why they are struggling in school.
- Determine how well a person’s brain is working
- Identify personality strengths and weaknesses that may be used to guide therapy.
- Intellectual testing
- Learning disability evaluation
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder assessment
- Giftedness evaluation
The information yielded from an assessment provides information to affected individuals, physicians, therapists, teachers, and parents to further inform appropriate lifestyle changes, interventions, and key issues in medical or mental health treatment.
Payments Accepted
- Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO
- Self Payment (cash, check, charge)
- Sliding Scales Services through the Family Education Center
Education
- Psy.D. from the Adler School of Professional Psychology
- M.A. from the Adler School of Professional Psychology
- B.A. from DePaul University
