My Story
Name pronunciation: Sun-uh [listen here]
My name is Sana, and I am a first-generation Pakistani American, born and raised in Texas. I grew up in a small suburb outside of Dallas, where I spent much of my childhood playing competitive softball and dreaming of attending The University of Texas at Austin. After earning undergraduate degrees in Marketing and Psychology, I entered the corporate world with hopes of becoming an actuary. Over time, however, I found myself less interested in the work itself and more curious about the people around me—their stories, experiences, relationships, and the ways they navigate stress, connection, and change. Five years into my career, I took a leap of faith and returned to graduate school to pursue counseling.
As a therapist, I am especially passionate about working with couples and individuals around relational conflict, cultural identity, intergenerational patterns, trauma, and personal growth. I approach therapy from a warm, empathetic, and nonjudgmental stance, while also practicing from an anti-oppressive and decolonized lens. I recognize that our mental health is shaped not only by our individual experiences, but also by our relationships, cultural contexts, and broader social systems.
I believe therapy is, at its core, a human-to-human relationship. Rather than positioning myself as an expert who has all the answers, I see myself as a supportive collaborator who brings curiosity, authenticity, and transparency to the therapeutic process. Together, we can explore the experiences and patterns that have shaped you, identify your strengths and resilience, and create space for meaningful change.
My work is grounded in trauma-informed and strengths-based care, with a particular belief in the healing power of attachment and relationships. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe enough to explore difficult emotions, develop greater self-awareness, and move toward a life that feels more authentic and aligned with what matters to them.
My Values
Authenticity
Authenticity is at the heart of how I approach therapy. I believe that building a connection and establishing safety starts with the genuineness of the therapist.
Autonomy
Anything that happens in the therapy room only happens with your consent. I believe in empowering you to navigate your own therapy and helping you build trust in your own decision-making.
Respect
Fostering an atmosphere of respect is essential. All humans deserve respect, regardless of the identities they hold. In valuing respect, I practice from an affirming, non-judgmental perspective.
Egalitarianism
You are the expert in your life. I may have the therapeutic tools to guide you, but I believe in egalitarian relationships and eliminating power dynamics. I'm curious to understand your lived experience.
Education, Credentials, & Training
Education
Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Psychology from The University of Texas at Austin
Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from The University of Texas at Austin
Master of Arts in Professional Counseling - Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling Track from Texas State University
Training
Completed Psychological First Aid (PFA) training
Completed EMDR Basic Training
Completed Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy
Completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy
Credentials
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), TX, License No. 89011
National Certified Counselor (NCC)
Continuing Education
Treating Clients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Improve Psychological Flexibility through Acceptance and Commitment Therapy & Exposure and Ritual Prevention
Emotionally Focused Therapy - Attachment Science in Practice Course
How to Provide Counseling for Survivors of Sexual Violence
Introduction to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Early Trauma Certificate