Dr. Sarah Kappen | Therapy in Westlake Village and Ventura, CA
Seeking therapy can feel vulnerable, especially when you’re facing challenges that are difficult to navigate on your own. I’m Dr. Sarah Kappen, a clinical psychologist (PSY33804) offering individual and couples therapy in Westlake Village and Ventura, California. I strive to create a warm, welcoming environment where you feel comfortable, understood, and supported. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, helping you work toward meaningful changes in your life and relationships.
I earned my master’s and doctoral degrees in clinical psychology from California Lutheran University. I completed a doctoral internship in clinical health psychology at Veterans Affairs Sepulveda Ambulatory Care Center, an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited training site. I further developed my specialization in trauma-informed care through a postdoctoral residency at Veterans Affairs Los Angeles Ambulatory Care Center.
My training and experience include evidence-based approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT). I am also a certified provider of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for trauma. I draw on these approaches to tailor our work to your experiences, needs, and goals.
For couples, I draw on Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) and Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy (IBCT) to help partners understand relationship patterns, navigate conflict, and strengthen their emotional connection.
I have worked with individuals, couples, and groups in community, VA, and private practice settings. My research has focused on supporting survivors of human trafficking and complex trauma—work that has deepened my commitment to compassionate, trauma-informed therapy.
I believe therapy can offer a space for healing, growth, and greater connection. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your relationship, I invite you to reach out to learn more about therapy in Westlake Village or Ventura, California. I would welcome the opportunity to support you.
Types of Therapy
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy is a valuable resource for individuals seeking support and guidance as they navigate their personal challenges and work towards their goals. It provides a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and to develop coping strategies and improve their overall well-being. As a therapist, my role is to listen and support individuals as they work towards their personal goals, and to help them feel more empowered and in control of their lives.
50 mins | Book A Free 15-Minute Consultation
Couples Therapy
Couples therapy is a valuable resource for couples seeking to improve their relationship and communicate more effectively. It provides a safe and supportive space for both partners to express their thoughts, feelings, and needs, and to work through any challenges or conflicts that may be impacting their relationship. As a therapist, my role is to help couples better understand each other, develop healthy coping strategies, and build a stronger, more fulfilling connection.
50-80 mins | Book A Free 15-Minute Consultation
Adolescent Therapy
Adolescent therapy is a valuable resource for young people who are struggling with a range of challenges, including social, emotional, and behavioral issues. It provides a safe and supportive space for adolescents to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and to work through any challenges they may be facing. As a therapist, my role is to listen and support adolescents as they navigate the complex and often difficult transitions of adolescence, and to help them build the skills and resilience they need to thrive.
50 mins | Book A Free 15-Minute Consultation
Trauma-Focused Therapy
Complex trauma therapy is a valuable resource for individuals who have experienced trauma that has had a significant and lasting impact on their lives. It provides a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore the effects of trauma on their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and to work through the challenges that may be holding them back. As a therapist, my role is to listen and support individuals as they navigate the complex and often difficult process of healing from trauma, and to help them build the skills and resilience they need to move forward in their lives.
50 mins | Book A Free 15-Minute Consultation