Specializations & Therapeutic Approach
Sarini Ettigi, Ph.D. is a clinical and counseling psychologist specializing in mindful self-compassion. Her approach is integrative and anchored in developing a collaborative, non-judgmental relationship. She uses evidence-based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness based approaches to empower clients with tools for examining patterns and learning new ways of thinking and managing emotions. She encourages clients to tap into their resourcefulness, curiosity and creativity to come up with solutions or implement change in a way that works for them. Therapy with Dr. Ettigi provides a safe relationship in which clients gain insight into patterns and habits that are no longer serving them, and explore new ways of thinking and being. Most importantly, her clients discover a different way of relating to themselves that is more self-accepting and compassionate.
What clients can expect from therapy with Dr. Ettigi: “We will work together to help you get to know yourself, recognize your potential, and make intentional choices in your life. You deserve to feel a sense of belonging, agency and joy.”
As a therapist, Dr. Ettigi has a calm, warm, and sincere style. She is active and affirming in sessions and attuned to clients’ needs. She is collaborative with her clients, joining forces with them to help them reach their goals and lead the life they want to live.
Her Expertise in evidence-based treatments includes:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Time-Limited Psychodynamic Therapy (TLDP)
Specialties
Dr. Ettigi has a generalist training and is adept at working with a variety of mental health concerns. She has been successful in working with college students, young adults, women, and early career professionals. Specifically, she has an interest and competence in working through issues related to trauma and the potential accompanying symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression, relationship problems). Dr. Ettigi excels in working with Women’s Issues, such as divorce and separation, women’s health, Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders, and parenting or adjusting to motherhood. She excels in helping clients improve sleep health, and assisting clients develop healthy coping skills such as emotion regulation.
Dr. Ettigi’s clinical work is supported by her research experience. She is extremely skilled in working with issues surrounding culture and identity. She has conducted research on the impact of racism and cultural identity on coping, wellness, and stress. She has also lectured, researched, and published on the concepts of the psychology of sex and gender, as well as sexual behavior.
She enjoys helping clients navigate life changes while providing tools for coping and space for exploration.
Education and Training
Dr. Ettigi received her B.A. in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University. She completed a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at Loyola College in Maryland, and her doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology from Lehigh University. She completed her internship at the North Carolina State University Counseling Center, and her postdoctoral fellowship at the North Carolina Correctional Institute for Women.
Dr. Ettigi has worked with clients from diverse backgrounds and with wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, culture and gender identity issues, family of origin concerns, and relationship issues. Dr. Ettigi has provided evidenced-based therapeutic approaches for over 10 years within a variety of settings such as school classrooms, in-home care, inpatient and outpatient units of hospitals, community mental health, college counseling centers, and within a correctional facility (North Carolina Corrections Institute for Women). In nearly all of these settings, trauma has been a consideration, which has enhanced Dr. Ettigi’s therapeutic approach to providing trauma-informed care as she guides clients to meaningful and genuine change.
Professional Membership
- National Register of Health Service Psychologists
