Em Sandberg, LSW, MSW, PHD

(They/them)

We all hit roadblocks that seemingly just won’t budge. And despite all our efforts to change ourselves or the world, we may find ourselves running into the same patterns, the same problems, those same inner critics that say there must be something wrong with us, how we think, how we feel. 

I’m not here to tell you how to think or feel. I’m here to accompany you. Together, we will work to unearth and strengthen your capacity to effectively navigate your internal and external worlds in the pursuit of a fulfilling life. In this dynamic process, I bring humility, curiosity, and a gentle yet direct approach. I am informed by third-wave behavioral therapies (ACT, DBT), psychodynamic theory, harm-reduction principles, and mindfulness meditation, which I incorporate into our sessions. Above all else, I commit to a relationship in which you hopefully come to know that you fundamentally matter and belong. 

Though I welcome work with individuals from all backgrounds, my experience has centered around those struggling with addictions, trauma, grief, relational concerns, and/or gender and sexuality exploration. I have worked primarily with groups and individual adults of diverse backgrounds and identities, whether that means race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, socio-economic status or national identity. This is a space to bring your whole self and I’m so grateful for the chance to know you.

I hold a Master’s in Social Work from University of Chicago’s Crown Family School for Social Work, Policy, and Practice as well as a PhD in German from University of California, Berkeley. My academic background provides me a nuanced understanding of how our stories and identities are shaped by often-invalidating environments. Let’s reconnect you with your experience; I would be honored to go there with you.