Sarah McElvain, LMSW

Sarah is a neuro-affirming therapist who is passionate about supporting other neurodivergent folx. As a late-diagnosed multiply neurodivergent Social Worker (and parent to neurodivergent children), Sarah specializes in working with anyone identifying as or curious about AuDHD, autistic, ADHD, and PDA (as well as their families). Sarah is skilled in providing therapeutic and affirming autism and AuDHD assessments via strengths-based neurotype exploration sessions. And for clients already identified, Sarah offers warm and compassionate therapy sessions. 

Sarah’s therapeutic approach is person-centered, insight-oriented, co-regulatory, and felt safety focused. She pulls from various therapeutic modalities including narrative, IFS parts work, person-centered, solutions focused, and Autistic-Centered therapy to help clients integrate their wiring and experiences. Sarah also supports clients with neuro-affirming I-CBT for OCD. With youth, she uses a mix of child-centered play and parts work to let kids lead with play, creativity, and conversation. She is anti-hierarchical in her work with all populations and centers accommodations (not exposures). As an AuDHD clinician, Sarah desires to build authentic connection, trust, and safety. She prioritizes your autonomy and colorful language is always welcome!

Sarah holds a Master of Science in Social Work degree from The University of Texas at Austin and a Bachelor of Science degree in sociology and human development from Vanderbilt University. She has over 20 years of experience working with children and families in public schools, the juvenile justice system, mental health agencies, and her own practice as a postpartum doula and sleep specialist. Sarah is a systems thinker and is a disability rights advocate. She is passionate about making neurotype exploration more accessible and client centered and is actively involved in groups advocating for improved assessment.