About Us | Dr. Ali Sager & Associates

Your Guide on the Path
to Mental Wellbeing

At Dr. Ali Sager & Associates, we understand that seeking therapy is a deeply personal decision that takes courage. Since our founding in 2015, we’ve been dedicated to creating a warm, supportive environment where clients can discover the best versions of themselves.

Our story begins with Dr. Alison Saff Sager, a Tampa native who recognized the need for a different kind of mental health practice—one that combines clinical expertise with genuine warmth and a personalized approach. After completing her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Florida School of Professional Psychology in Tampa, Dr. Sager established our practice with a mission to provide high-quality mental health treatment through an integrated approach that acknowledges the mind-body connection.

What started as a solo practice has grown into a team of dedicated female clinicians, each bringing unique expertise and a shared commitment to empowering our clients through life’s challenges.

Understanding Your Mental Health Journey

The path to mental wellbeing isn’t always straightforward. Many people in the Tampa Bay area struggle with:

Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression that affects daily functioning
Processing trauma that continues to impact relationships and quality of life
Navigating the emotional challenges of pregnancy and postpartum periods
Managing family dynamics and parenting challenges
Transitioning through major life changes

Without proper support, these challenges can lead to feelings of isolation, strained relationships, and difficulty reaching your full potential. The barriers to accessing quality mental health care in Florida are well-documented—from long wait times to concerns about finding the right therapeutic fit.

At Dr. Ali Sager & Associates, we’ve created a practice specifically designed to address these challenges. Our team provides timely, personalized care that meets you where you are, whether you’re seeking support for a specific issue or looking for ongoing guidance through life’s complexities.

Our Mission and Values

Mission

Empowering clients to discover the best versions of themselves through compassionate, evidence-based mental health care that honors the whole person.

Our Core Values

Connection

We believe healing happens in relationship. Our therapists create genuine connections with each client, fostering a safe space for vulnerability and growth.

For our clients, this means: You’ll work with a therapist who truly sees you, listens deeply, and responds authentically to your unique needs.

Compassion

We approach each client with empathy, understanding, and non-judgment, recognizing that everyone’s journey is different.

For our clients, this means: You’ll never be judged or made to feel shame about your struggles. Instead, you’ll find a supportive ally who walks alongside you.

Authenticity

We value honesty, transparency, and genuine presence in all our interactions.

For our clients, this means:
You’ll experience straightforward communication about your therapy journey, including honest feedback delivered with kindness.

Growth

We are committed to supporting your personal development and resilience through evidence-based approaches.

For our clients, this means: You’ll gain practical skills and insights that foster lasting positive change in your daily life.

Mind-Body Integration

We recognize the powerful connection between mental and physical wellbeing in our therapeutic approach.

For our clients, this means: Your therapy will address both emotional patterns and their physical manifestations, creating more comprehensive healing.

Our Team of Specialists

Dr. Alison Saff Sager, Psy.D. Founder and Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Sager is a Tampa native who brings both extensive training and a deeply personal approach to her work. After earning her Bachelor’s degree from University of Florida and her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Florida School of Professional Psychology in Tampa, she completed an APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at the University of South Florida Counseling Center with additional training at Tampa General Hospital’s chronic pain management program.

Dr. Sager specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, and maternal mental health. She is certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and has specialized training through Postpartum Support International. Clients appreciate her relaxed, skilled, and collaborative style that empowers them to achieve their goals and improve their lives.

License: State of Florida / PY9458

Our practice features a team of licensed mental health professionals, each bringing unique expertise and training:

Beth Michalak, LMHC

Specializes in anxiety, depression, internal family systems and somatic healing, and is trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Population specialty: Young adults (beginning at college age) and adults

Loretta Saff, MA, CPC, CRC

Certified in levels 1 & 2 of the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), a healing tool that deals with the proven relationship between the mind and the body.

Population specialty: Executives and administrators, as well as students, parents, and teachers

Carolyn George, Psy.D.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist with certifications in trauma, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, personality disorders, high-conflict relationships, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), hypnosis, and as a Clinical Trauma Professional.

Population specialty: Young adults and adults.

Stephanie Barnett, MHCI

Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with specialized training in pregnancy/postpartum support and substance abuse treatment, trauma, anxiety, and parenting support.

Population specialty: Adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and groups.

Heidi Sosa, LCSW

Offers therapy in both English and Spanish, specializing in: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), trauma, parent conflict, emotion regulation, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).

Population specialty: Adolescents, adults, families, and groups.

Our Expertise and Approach

What sets Dr. Ali Sager & Associates apart is our commitment to providing evidence-based therapy in a warm, supportive environment. Our team brings together diverse training and specializations to offer comprehensive care for a wide range of mental health concerns.

Specialized Training and Certifications

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) – A scientifically proven approach to resolve trauma more rapidly than traditional treatment
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – For processing traumatic memories and experiences
Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders training through Postpartum Support International
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – For addressing thought patterns that contribute to anxiety and depression
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Focusing on mindfulness and values-based action
Interpersonal Process Therapy – For improving relationships and communication
Critical Incident Stress Management – For acute trauma and crisis situations
Internal Family Systems (IFS) – for tapping into parts of the self that may be stuck or repressed
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) – Tapping helps to access our nervous system to release trapped emotions

Our Therapeutic Approach

We believe in meeting clients where they are, creating a collaborative relationship that honors your unique experiences and goals. Our approach is:

Warm and supportive – Creating a safe space for vulnerability and growth
Integrative – Drawing from various evidence-based modalities to find what works best for you
Mind-body focused – Recognizing the connection between mental and physical wellbeing
Strengths-based – Building on your existing resources and resilience
Culturally responsive – Honoring diverse backgrounds and experiences
Inclusive – we welcome anyone and everyone and meet them from a non-judgmental space

Serving the Tampa Bay Community

Located in the heart of Tampa at 611 W Bay St., our practice is conveniently accessible to clients throughout the Tampa Bay area. We proudly serve:

Tampa
South Tampa
Hyde Park
Davis Islands
Palma Ceia
Westshore
Downtown Tampa
Bayshore
Channel District

Our central location allows us to serve the diverse needs of the Tampa community, which faces significant mental health challenges. With Florida ranking among the bottom states for access to mental health care, our practice is committed to being part of the solution by providing timely, effective, and compassionate care.

We understand the unique stressors of life in Tampa—from the intensity of hurricane season to the challenges of parenting and work-life balance in our growing city. Our therapists bring both professional expertise and local understanding to help you navigate these challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you accept insurance?

We are an out-of-network provider, which means we don’t directly bill insurance companies. However, many clients use their out-of-network benefits for reimbursement. We provide superbills that you can submit to your insurance company. During your consultation, we’ll discuss payment options to find a solution that works for you.

Do you offer virtual therapy sessions?

Yes, we offer both in-person and secure virtual therapy options. Many clients appreciate the flexibility of telehealth for busy schedules or when they’re unable to come to the office. Both formats provide high-quality care tailored to your needs.

How do I know if your practice is right for me?

We offer a free 15-minute consultation to help determine if our approach aligns with your needs. During this call, you can share what you’re looking for in therapy, ask questions about our practice, and get a sense of how we work. Finding the right therapeutic fit is important, and we’re committed to helping you make an informed decision.

How long does therapy typically last?

The duration of therapy varies based on individual needs and goals. Some clients benefit from short-term therapy focused on specific issues (8-12 sessions), while others prefer longer-term support. We’ll work together to determine the approach that best serves your unique situation and regularly reassess your progress and goals.

What can I expect during my first session?

Your first session will focus on getting to know you and understanding what brings you to therapy. You’ll complete some initial paperwork, then meet with your therapist to discuss your concerns and goals. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and determine if the therapeutic relationship feels like a good fit.

Take Your First Step Today

Reaching out for support shows courage and commitment to your wellbeing. Our team is ready to walk alongside you on your journey toward growth and healing.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Call us at (727) 228-2249 or email [email protected]