Dr. Sandra Madaris, LCSW, CSW

Dr. Sandra Madaris is a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia who helps people facing addictions, trauma and abuse, anger, low self-esteem, and depression. She brings 23 years of professional experience to sessions and speaks plainly and directly with clients. She aims to treat people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion as they begin difficult changes.

Her sessions focus on practical, doable steps. She tailors conversations and plans to each person's needs. That might look like learning new coping skills, shifting the habits that feed addiction, or practicing ways to manage strong emotions.

Sandra uses a mix of approaches depending on the problem. She draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to build values-based action, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to change unhelpful thinking and behaviors, and Client-Centered methods to create a supportive space. She also integrates elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Emotionally-Focused Therapy when helpful.

Over two decades of work have included helping people with abandonment, attachment issues, codependency, caregiving stress, and substance concerns. She frames treatment around real-life goals like improving relationships, reducing risky behaviors, and feeling more stable day to day.

Starting therapy is framed as a process. Sandra collaborates with each person to set clear, achievable goals and adjusts the plan as progress unfolds. People work at a pace that matches their situation and readiness.

Evidence-informed approaches for online work

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps people clarify what matters to them and take small steps toward those values. It is often used for addiction, anxiety, and depression by focusing on action instead of fighting difficult thoughts. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy looks at how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors connect and teaches specific skills to change patterns that keep problems going. It is practical for changing habits and coping with mood shifts. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes a warm, nonjudgmental relationship and gives people space to explore their concerns while the therapist follows their lead.

Finding the right approach is part of the process. The therapist will work collaboratively to choose methods that match the person's goals and preferences. Goals, symptom patterns, and personal style all help decide which combination of approaches to use.

The biography does not list specific online session formats, so confirm available options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when schedules are tight. It can also help maintain continuity when life is unpredictable. Licensed professionals adapt exercises and homework to the online setting so progress continues between sessions.