Hidden Gems: Meet Sara Baker

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Baker.

Hi Sara, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I have always been fascinated by people, specifically why we respond/ react/ or act in a certain way. I always get two reactions when people hear me talk about serial killers: either they get a nervous/uncomfortable look on their face (I’ve heard “what the hell is wrong with you”) OR they are fascinated. I started taking psychology and sociology courses in high school and was hooked. I originally had a dream to work for the FBI in the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) because I developed a fascination with serial killers in high school and thought it would be so amazing to be able to become a ‘profiler’ to catch killers. I had learned about the BAU through TV shows that portrayed criminal profiling as a profession, and I wanted to do that. To accomplish that goal, I received a master’s degree in Forensic Psychology, which was very cool and incredibly interesting. I liked the intersection of psychology and the legal system.

I received a conditional offer for employment from the FBI, but it did not work out for multiple reasons. I had to pivot because I had been so focused on this specific job/career path, and when it did not work out, it destroyed me. I was angry, hurt, and lost for a few years. I then decided to get another master’s degree in Counseling Psychology because I was still fascinated by people and figuring out the ‘why’; I wanted to help. There is a belief that people go into the mental health field because said person has their issues/struggles and wants to understand themselves better. That may or may not be true, but for me, it was a way to help and to have a purpose. I have never looked back. Providing therapy and seeing how much others can benefit makes sense to who I am. I have worked in a variety of settings providing mental health treatment. I’ve worked in prisons, a community mental health agency, an emergency room, an inpatient mental health hospital, and now in my private practice. It has been a lot of hard work, but I am very thankful for each experience with each person I have met, worked with, or helped. I believe that I have learned something from every interaction, whether good or bad, I have learned something from that person.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a smooth road?
Not! I had different goals/ plans for my career, but I am thankful every day that I am where I am now. Many self-doubts, lack of confidence, and fears held me back for so long. I think my inner voice, the voice that I call the ‘stupid and bitchy Sara,’ was the most challenging part to overcome. It was fate when I finally ignored the ‘bitchy Sara’ voice.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I am a Mental Health Therapist specializing in Trauma, Substance Abuse/Addiction, Chronic Health Issues, and everything in between. I help clients through individual therapy and couples counseling. I believe two main areas sets me apart from others. The first is my work history. You learn a lot about people struggling and in a crisis. In those moments, building a connection and gaining their trust is critical. The second is my chronic health illness. I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 7. It was a very isolating situation and impacted every area of my life. I completely understand how a chronic health disease is more than just the physical health impact. My job is a privilege because people trust me to get into the nitty gritty with them. I am direct and frank and call my clients on their BS. As a therapist, I believe in people and in the power and ability to change.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
My favorite part of our great city is the Midwest friendliness and some amazing culture, BBQ, and sports. I like that we have so many different activities/things to do. I feel like every type of personality can find events that they enjoy. My least favorite thing about the KC Metro is that I am so far away from the ocean. My happy place is on the beach and listening to the sound of the ocean.

Pricing:

• Individual Therapy $135
• Couples Therapy $190

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sarabakercounseling.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarabakercounseling/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarabakercounseling