A joyfully Catholic & holistic approach

Sarah Portner, LCSW-C

Sarah trained to be a Clinical Mental Health Therapist at The Catholic University of America's National Catholic School of Social Service. Anchored by faith, Sarah accompanies Clients to deeper joy and flourishing. Sarah designs and executes treatment in ways that support each Client's growth in resilience to face any season with peace and strength.


Primary areas of speciality

Anxiety, trauma recovery, relationship healing, depression, Vocational discernment, marriage preparation, role/life adjustment, & chronic health issue management


Sarah utilizes a variety of treatment techniques. She has specialized training in Nutritional Counseling and Integrative Mental Health as well as attachment theory-based Emotionally Focused Therapy.

Training & Experience

Clinical experience

Sarah has over a decade of experience serving people - all unique & unrepeatable - in a variety of settings:

  • Parish & University-based clinical mental health therapy offices
  • Crisis Pregnancy Support Organizations (Pregnancy Center, Maternity Home, Adoption Agency)
  • Human Trafficking Survivor Support
  • College Student & Youth Ministry
  • K-12 Student Education and Mentorship


Speaking & Retreat Experience

Sarah gives talks to audiences large and small in Retreat Center, University, and parish contexts during retreats, marriage renewal workshops, professional development events, and talk series. She is open to what will best meet the needs of those present.


Past & present settings include:

  • Our Lady of Bethesda Retreat Center
  • The University of Maryland
  • St Joseph's on Capitol Hill - Washington, DC
  • Ascension Parish - Bowie, MD
  • Sacred Heart Church - Bowie, MD
  • St. Andrew by the Bay - Annapolis, MD


Academic training

Sarah earned her BSW and MSW degrees from the National Catholic School of Social Service (NCSSS) at The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. NCSSS was ranked #1 Catholic School of Social Work by The Social Work Degree Guide. Sarah also studied Media and Communications.