My name is Sarah. I am the Program Director of Coastal DBT, a DBT therapist and a DBT skills trainer. Most importantly, I am intensively trained in DBT by Behavioral Tech Institute, the organization founded by Marsha Linehan. I am also experienced in psychological assessment, including Personality assessment and Intellectual functioning.

While I have seen all kinds of clients from many different populations and with many issues,

• I have a specialization in applying DBT to those struggling with substance abuse since I have been in recovery since May 16, 2011.

• I also specialize in applying DBT for Christian clients AND those dealing with church trauma. I also have a little experience in dealing with cults.

I have a Master’s degree as well as extensive doctoral training in Counselor Education and Supervision. The doctoral training has given me many gifts including a competency in psychological and education testing, assessment and treatment planning as well as a high level of exposure to evidence based therapies for adults and adolescents. It has allowed me to develop as a scientist of human behavior through knowledge of the research base in DBT and psychological trauma. Simultaneously it also increased my level of empathy as I worked with disadvantaged populations, including prisoners and those newly released from prison.

I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Re-Processing therapy (EMDR) or DBT PE (Prolonged Exposure) to process client trauma as is appropriate for the client’s situation.

Currently I am taking intensive training in DBT for children. I am also doing a lot of learning about DBT for eating disorders and OCD. I am currently working towards full certification with the DBT-Linehan Board of certification. This is important because currently only six people in South Carolina have this certification.

I can be reached at Sarah.Leitner@CoastalDBT.com, or at (803)-525-4085.