“I think one of the most common misconceptions about mental health is that it represents weakness, or is the ‘fault’ of the individual… that if you did more, or were more positive, or less sensitive, then the hardship wouldn’t come to pass. And that simply isn’t true. I believe context is central to mental health, and I make room for the role of systemic injustices, cultural clashes, and the ails of the body in understanding anyone I work with.” -Sabina S.
I have over 10+ years experience working in the treatment of trauma (Complex Trauma, Developmental/ Attachment Trauma), sexual difficulties (desire, arousal/ pleasure, orgasm, pain), body image/ eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, BED), relationship difficulties, grief/ loss, and identity confusion (including gender and sexual identity). I take a self-empowering, non-hierarchical, humanistic, and dynamic approach to therapy, incorporating techniques from Mindfulness and Somatic Therapies, Movement and Expressive Arts Practices, Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioural, Psychodynamic, and Insight and Acceptance Oriented Practices. I have expertise treating difficulties relating to disconnection from the body, and its impact on sexual and relational experiences (e.g., pleasure, satisfaction), eating behaviours, self identity and self worth, and general wellbeing (e.g., stress, anxiety, depression). One of my passions is in helping people (e.g., with sexual traumas) (re)negotiate their way into intimacy and sexuality, using consent based, pleasure focused and embodied methods.
As a therapist, I work to provide a safe, supportive and empowering space, rooted in principles of transparency, authenticity, consent, and non judgement, where we can safely delve into the murky areas, explore struggles and build the skills and confidence necessary to make desired life changes.
To date, I have worked with individuals, couples, families and groups, ranging in age from early adolescence to late adulthood. I have worked as a psychologist and clinical teaching supervisor in multiple public hospitals (CAMH -Toronto; MUHC, Douglas, Jewish General - Montreal), clinics, and private settings within Canada and the United States.
I am presently only working with women, ages 30+. BIPOC and LGBTQIA2s+ are encouraged to reach out. Teletherapy or in person “walking” sessions are offered. My rate is $200/ hour.
Featured References:
Sarin, S. Amsel, R. & Binik, Y.M. (2015). A Streetcar Named Derousal? A Psychophysiological Examination of the Desire-Arousal Distinction in Sexually Functional and Dysfunctional Women. Journal of Sex Research, 53, 1-19.
Sarin, S. Amsel, R. & Binik, Y.M. (2014). How Hot Is He? A Psychophysiological and Psychosocial Examination of the Arousal Patterns of Healthy and Dysfunctional Men. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 11, 1725-1740.
Sarin, S., Amsel, R., & Binik, Y.M. (2013). Disentangling Desire and Arousal: A classificatory conundrum. Archives of Sexual Behaviour, 42, 1079-1100.
Wiederman, M. & Sarin, S. (2014). Body Image and Sexuality. In Y.M. Binik & K. Hall (Eds.), Principles and Practices of Sex Therapy, 5th Edition, Guilford Press.