Sara Riley earned a B.S. in Psychology and Business Administration from University of Maryland, Asian Division while living in Misawa, Japan. Upon returning to the United States she attended Alaska Pacific University in Anchorage, AK where she received her Masters of Science Counseling Psychology. Sara is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Georgia and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). She has obtained extensive clinical, assessment and forensic experience while serving a multitude of culturally diverse populations.

Sara has worked for the Georgia Department of Corrections as a Mental Health Counselor where she implemented a pet therapy program and supported the growth and development of those incarcerated. Sara worked as a Vice President for Merz Consulting Inc., an independent service provider in the state of GA, completing in-depth family assessments, domestic violence/risk assessment evaluations, sexual offender evaluations, home evaluation and substance abuse assessments. Sara supervised and managed a regional office staffed by employees and independent contractors. Sara prepared the company for CARF accreditation by developing and implementing company policies and procedures. Sara has provided individual, group and family counseling as well as professional and corporate training. Sara is currently working as an independent contractor providing Equine Assisted Therapy at Jacobs' Ladder in Hahira, GA as well providing assessments and evaluations for GA Pines Community Service Board in Southwest GA.

In addition to her LPC license, (verify her license here) and NCC license, (verify her status here) and a Distance Credentialed Counselor (DCC) and a certified EAGALA I Mental Health Professional.

Sara has been a member of the board of the Licensed Professional Counselor Association of Georgia since 2006 and is a member of the American Counseling Association, American College of Forensic Examiners, American Mental Health Counselors Association and the International Society for Mental Health Online. Sara has trained with Kate Anthony and DeeAnna Merz Nagel, both experts in online counseling and supervision and former presidents of ISMHO. Sara has authored a book chapter on the topic of Clinical Supervision Online.

Sara is a Board Member of the Humane Society of Valdosta, a team leader for the Disaster Response Team for the American Red Cross/Valdosta Chapter, a member of the Crisis Emergency Response Team member of Lowndes County and a volunteer Mental Health provider for Hospice of South GA. Sara continues to enjoy personal and professional growth which she believes is directly related to her interaction with trainees, clients and coworkers.