Feeling better is possible.
Therapy for women to recognize their strengths, redefine their identity and reclaim their worthiness.
At Five Magnolias we believe that in order to be our best self we must:
Be Curious
Curiosity can help us become our best selves by encouraging us to explore new ideas, perspectives, and experiences. It allows us to challenge our assumptions and biases, and to approach the world with an open mind.
Be Humble
Being humble means acknowledging our limitations and imperfections, and being open to learning and growth. It allows us to connect with others on a deeper level and fosters a sense of empathy and compassion.
Be Authentic
Authenticity requires choosing your truth over what is comfortable in the moment. It's about embracing your true self, even if it means going against societal norms or expectations. By choosing authenticity, you show yourself radical self-compassion and self-acceptance
Be Brave
Being brave means showing up even when we are scared and not letting fear hold us back from designing our life authentically. It means taking risks, embracing uncertainty, and being true to ourselves.
Be Collaborative
Collaboration is a value that emphasizes the importance of working together towards a common goal. is a foundational principle that promotes teamwork, communication, and mutual respect.
Be Rooted
Being rooted in our values and foundational principles is essential for personal and professional growth. It helps us to stay true to ourselves and our beliefs, even in the face of challenges and adversity. By staying grounded in our values, we can make decisions with confidence and integrity, and build strong relationships based on trust and respect.
Therapy, Consulting + Advocacy
It is the vision of Five Magnolias Therapy, Consulting and Advocacy to provide individualized therapy to individuals struggling with their mental wellness, consult with individuals, groups and organizations about how to adopt inclusive and wellness practices and continue to advocate for equality for all humans without exception.
Centered Heart. Grounded Mind.
“The familiar feels safe, that is until we teach ourselves that discomfort is temporary and a necessary part of transformation.”
― Dr. Nicole LePera
Sarah Gallagher
LISW, PMH-C
she/her
I have been a practicing psychotherapist since 2013 and in the field of social work since 2002. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with my Bachelor's of Social Work and St. Ambrose University with my Master's of Social Work.
It is my goal to provide a safe environment to help you feel better. I use a combination of evidence based interventions that are tailored to your unique needs. My practice has roots from humanistic and integrative frameworks. I trained with Kase and Co. for Polyvagal EMDR and have specialized training in EMDR for postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, perinatal trauma and mental illness. I have certificates in ACT, DBT and CBT modalities.
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I am certified by Postpartum Support International in maternal mental health and wellness. I also specialize in neurodivergent issues impacting women such as procrastination and perfectionism. I have extensive experience in areas of trauma, boundaries, relational challenges and life transitions. I have some training in holistic treatment and eating disorders.
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Your emotions, thoughts and perspectives are valid and have a right to be seen and heard. It would be my honor to offer a safe space to explore them together. I will be your partner in this journey toward healing and wellness. I am confident that feeling better is possible.
Specializing in:
Perinatal Wellness
Women's Issues
Executive Functioning
Anxiety
Compassion Fatigue (Burnout)
Stress
Boundaries
Perfectionism
Trauma
Work related issues
Life Transitions
Perinatal Grief
Fertility Issues
Help for the Helper
“Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives.”
–Bessel A. van der Kolk (Writer & Psychologist, ‘The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma’)
The Five Magnolias Roots
Humans are intrinsically valuable and deserving of empathy, respect, and unconditional positive regard. I aim to create a safe space where clients feel heard, understood, and accepted for who they are. There is an interconnectedness between the body, mind, and social engagement system. By attending to the regulation of the autonomic nervous system, I guide clients to recognize their own physiological responses and develop more adaptive techniques and responses. I recognize and embrace the inherent strengths and resources that every individual possesses. I believe that by identifying and building upon these strengths, individuals can unlock their full potential and navigate the challenges they face as well as integrate their traumatic experiences into their life story.
​A personal side of Sarah
It is common for women to describe themselves in terms of the roles they carry out (mom, wife, etc) and those are important. And so are the other parts of us. Here is a little bit about me. ​I am an avid reader and love historical novels, biographies and learning about the places I am visiting for the first time. I enjoy going new places, trying new foods and learning about cultures. I love all animals and have a particular fondness for lions, alpacas, penguins and highland cows. I seek adventure with riding my bike, camping, hiking and (sometimes) rollercoasters. I have deep appreciation for creative outlets to try new things such as gardening, making candles or restoring furniture. I am on a meaningful journey of understanding my ancestry and learning about generational and ancestral patterns and how they impact us. I am a strong proponent of rest as a productive and intentional part of our life and balance that with my love of organizing and refreshing systems. I am a married woman to a husband that supports my voice and individuality. We are a reconstituted family of four boys and two female boxers.
“You have permission to rest. You are not responsible for fixing everything that is broken. You do not have to try and make everyone happy. For now, take time for you. It’s time to replenish."- Alyse Ruriani
Therapy to take you from surviving to THRIVING.
