Sarah Amiri, Psy.D.

Dr. Sarah Amiri is a Postdoctoral Psychologist at Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness. She

earned her Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Counseling Psychology from Holy Family

University. She completed her doctoral internship at Hillside Children’s Center in Rochester,

New York, where she provided therapy and psychological assessment services to children and

adolescents with a range of emotional, behavioral, developmental, and relational concerns.

Dr. Amiri provides individual therapy to adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety,

depression, trauma, emotional regulation difficulties, family and relationship concerns, school-

related challenges, stress, and major life transitions. Her therapeutic approach is integrative and

grounded in a family systems perspective, with an emphasis on understanding clients within the

context of their relationships, families, cultures, and lived experiences. She incorporates

evidence-based approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior

therapy (DBT), trauma-focused CBT, motivational interviewing, solution-focused interventions,

mindfulness, and person-centered therapy based on each client’s individual needs.

Dr. Amiri has a particular interest in family dynamics, intergenerational trauma, cultural identity,

and the ways early experiences and relationships influence present-day functioning. She is

especially passionate about providing culturally responsive care to Iranian/Persian, Middle

Eastern, and other culturally diverse clients and recognizes the importance of understanding

mental health within each client’s unique cultural and familial context.

In addition to psychotherapy, Dr. Amiri has experience conducting comprehensive psychological

and psychoeducational assessments with children, adolescents, and adults. Her assessment

experience includes evaluations of cognitive, academic, emotional, behavioral, developmental,

and adaptive functioning, including concerns related to ADHD, autism spectrum disorder,

learning difficulties, and mood and anxiety disorders.

Dr. Amiri believes that effective therapy begins with a collaborative, supportive relationship in

which clients feel understood while also being encouraged to develop greater insight,

strengthen coping skills, and create meaningful change in their lives.

Dr. Amiri’s master’s and doctoral training spans inpatient psychiatric hospitals, child and

adolescent residential facilities, community mental health, and private practice.

Originally from Philadelphia, Dr. Amiri enjoys spending time with her poodles, traveling, cooking,

and cheering for the Philadelphia Eagles.