Sara L Sligh
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
San Marcos,CA
Summary
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of progressive experience in psychotherapy, clinical supervision, and behavioral health program leadership. Skilled in evidence-based modalities including ACT, DBT, CBT, TF-CBT, MI, and IFS, with a strong humanistic and culturally responsive approach. Proven success in guiding multidisciplinary teams and developing wellness-oriented, client-driven models of care.
Behavioral health professional skilled in providing therapeutic support and interventions. Strong focus on team collaboration and achieving results, flexing with changing needs. Expertise in clinical assessments, treatment planning, and crisis management, while fostering compassionate and patient-centered approach. Reliable and adaptable, ensuring optimal outcomes in dynamic healthcare environment.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Behavioral Health Clinician & Clinical Supervisor
Lifeline Community Services
06.2012 - Current
- Provide psychotherapy for children, youth, and families utilizing ACT, DBT, CBT, TF-CBT, MI, and IFS.
- Deliver clinical supervision, field instruction, and program oversight within a client-driven, wellness-oriented model.
- Facilitate individual therapy and group supervision across multiple behavioral health programs for at-risk youth.
- Address complex developmental, social, biological, psychological, and relational needs in diverse populations.
Licensed Program Therapist / Field Instructor (Bilingual Spanish/English)
Mental Health Systems – Youth at Risk Program
01.2008 - 01.2012
- Managed a full caseload of youth (ages 8–18) and families, exceeding productivity expectations.
- Provided bilingual individual and family therapy using evidence-based practices.
- Trained and mentored staff and interns in clinical practice, policy compliance, and cultural sensitivity.
- Supported program management and quality assurance; served as field instructor for MSW students.
Social Worker – Child & Adolescent Outpatient Psychiatry
Rady Children’s Hospital & Health Center of San Diego
01.2002 - 01.2008
- Delivered bilingual therapeutic services for clients ages 4–18 and their families.
- Conducted psychiatric diagnostic assessments and developed individualized treatment plans.
- Presented staff trainings and facilitated school-based group interventions.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams and community-based providers to coordinate care.
School-Based Counselor (Bilingual)
Family Service Agency
01.1998 - 01.2000
- Provided child and family therapy in elementary school settings.
- Liaised between educators, administrators, and families to ensure adherence to IEP requirements.
- Implemented the Primary Intervention Program to support early childhood emotional and behavioral health.
Residential Case Manager
Compass Center Women’s Program
01.1997 - 01.1999
- Managed residential program serving women aged 18 to seniors in transition.
- Conducted psychosocial assessments and counseling focused on independent living and family reunification.
- Coordinated with community service providers to strengthen safety nets and support systems.
Residential Supervisor
YMCA OZ
01.1995 - 01.1996
- Supervised adolescent residents (ages 12–17) in a therapeutic residential setting.
- Facilitated family sessions for transitions and aftercare planning.
- Promoted safety, teamwork, and personal growth through group counseling and skill development.
Education
Master of Social Work -
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA05.2003
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA05.1996
Skills
Behavioral health assessment
Evidence-based intervention for mood disorders
Suicide risk assessment
Eating disorder recovery support
Certification
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) — California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS), November 2011 – Present
Timeline
Behavioral Health Clinician & Clinical Supervisor
Lifeline Community Services
06.2012 - Current
Licensed Program Therapist / Field Instructor (Bilingual Spanish/English)
Mental Health Systems – Youth at Risk Program
01.2008 - 01.2012
Social Worker – Child & Adolescent Outpatient Psychiatry
Rady Children’s Hospital & Health Center of San Diego
01.2002 - 01.2008
School-Based Counselor (Bilingual)
Family Service Agency
01.1998 - 01.2000
Residential Case Manager
Compass Center Women’s Program
01.1997 - 01.1999
Residential Supervisor
YMCA OZ
01.1995 - 01.1996
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
San Diego State University
Master of Social Work -
San Diego State University
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