Sara Zakutney,

Hi, I’m Sara (she/her), a licensed professional counselor (LPC).

I’ve worked in mental health for ten years and consider it a privilege to help you through some of your life’s most challenging moments.

My Education

I graduated with my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University in 2015. Before that, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Applied Developmental Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh in 2011.

My Background

I have worked in various settings, from helping students better learn when addressing their emotional needs to providing family reunification services to people who have been formerly incarcerated. I enjoyed working with college students at Chatham’s Office of Career Development, helping them explore their personality strengths, prepare for their career options, and craft goals that excited them for their future.

Most recently, I’ve been in an outpatient setting for almost ten years, and my ideal clients to work with are college students, the healthcare community, adults across the lifespan, and couples.

My Experience

I have experience and a passion for working with clients through a faith-based lens, including Christian counseling, healing from spiritual trauma, or deconstruction. I also enjoy working with clients living with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, body image, self-esteem struggles, relationship or workplace difficulties, and those walking through grief.

I am a certified SYMBIS (Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts) facilitator. I provide premarital counseling to ensure you’re at your best when entering that exciting phase of life!

Techniques and Training

Everyone has different needs and ways of relating to themselves and others. My modalities include a person-centered approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). And while laughter isn’t an official therapeutic style, incorporating humor when appropriate can lighten the load and offer a refreshing perspective!

Supporting Your Journey

It takes a lot of vulnerability and courage to seek help when you are struggling, so I don’t take it lightly when a new client walks through my door. If you recognize that something is missing or things could be better, we can work to help you connect the dots on how to make those changes happen. I enjoy collaborating with my clients and creating a space to ask questions together to lead us to a deeper understanding of any root beliefs that result in feeling stuck. Together, we can untangle those thoughts and feelings to develop a positive path forward.

A Little About Me

I love all things Pittsburgh and getting to enjoy the city’s offerings with friends and family—exploring coffee shops, walking across bridges, and catching a concert or trivia night (The Office is my specialty!). My current favorite things are “out and back” trips (flying to a new city for a day), listening to audiobooks while hiking, having fresh-cut flowers at all times, and sharing a meal around the table or campfire.

PA License #PC013332

Sara Zakutney’s Availability

Sara Zakutney offers in-person counseling at the Pittsburgh therapy office and online therapy sessions for Pennsylvanians six years and older.