Meet Sarah Bedell, LSW,
Chicago Therapist
My STORY
My path into the mental health field came from a deep curiosity about people, their stories and lives, and the healing power of connection. Growing up, I was drawn to art, movies, and books not just for their stories, but for the way they invited me into the lives of characters: their struggles, hopes, and transformations. Through these narratives, I began to see how, even when our stories differ in details, we share a common ability to feel deeply, to be shaped by our experiences, and to heal through connection. Life has taught me how vital and profoundly healing it can be to be truly seen and understood, and that realization guided me toward being a clinician rooted in present awareness, empathy, and the power of authentic, safe relationships.
My past background in the research field focused extensively on family systems and the ways language and communication can serve to build protective factors for mental health, shaping how individuals develop within relationships. This alongside my interest in poetry, yoga, and film have been guiding forces in my life, grounding me in curiosity and the everyday art of living.
MY philosophy
My philosophy of therapy is relational at its core. I view therapy as walking alongside someone through their struggles, offering presence and support as they move toward the places and spaces where they can become who they want to be. I believe healing happens through connection and through honoring the deep relationship between mind and body, especially in the aftermath of trauma. By gently attending to both emotional experiences and bodily wisdom, therapy can create space to process trauma, restore a sense of safety, and reconnect with oneself. My goal is to help clients understand themselves fully so they can live the life their heart longs for, with greater authenticity, agency, and compassion.
Contact Information
For Current Clients: You can reach your therapist directly at the contact information below.
- Email: sarah@lilycounseling.com
- Phone: 773-217-9326
New Clients / First-Time Consultations: Please reach out to us here for more information.
get to know me
STYLE/PERSONALITY
Friends, family, and colleagues often describe me as fun, bubbly, optimistic, and easy to connect with. I bring warmth, humor, and creativity into my relationships and pride myself on being a loyal and supportive friend. Outside of work, I am deeply energized by nature and movement. You can usually find me in a yoga class, taking a long walk outdoors, spending time with my cat, Persephone, or trying a new dance class. I also love cooking, spending meaningful time with friends, and creating floral arrangements, all of which allow me to slow down, express creativity, and stay grounded.
SPECIALITIES
- Anxiety
- Burnout
- Life Transitions
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Pregnancy, Perinatal, Postpartum
- Attachment & Relationships
- Grief & Loss
- Trauma (birth, sexual, relationship, systems, developmental, and more)
CREDENTIALS
- Boston University: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Brain Sciences, Minor in French
- University of Chicago: Masters in Social Work with a Clinical Concentration
- LSW: Licensed Social Worker in the state of IL
- CCTP: Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
- CMP: Certified Mindfulness Professional
- *EMDR: scheduled training through EMDRIA January-March 2026
