Sarah Oettinger, LCSW, CCTP-II

Sarah Oettinger, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Complex Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCTP-II), is the founder of Desert Bloom Counseling. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where she received specialized trauma-informed training through the Behavioral Health Training Project.

​

With extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders, Sarah's trauma-informed approach ensures a safe, supportive environment. She specializes in trauma, particularly sexual abuse/assault, using techniques like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and EMDR. While she works with clients of all ages, her primary focus is on preschool and early school-age children who have experienced sexual trauma, emphasizing the importance of early intervention.

​Sarah is dedicated to educating communities on sexual abuse and trauma-informed care. In 2019, she presented at a Learn at Lunch for the Nevada Chapter of the Association for Sexual Abusers, sharing valuable insights on age-appropriate sexual behaviors in children. In 2022, she led an 8-hour trauma-informed care training for UNLV Cares/UNLV Community Clinic, preparing interdisciplinary students with essential skills to deliver trauma-sensitive care in primary healthcare settings. In 2024, Sarah and co-presenter Stephanie Reisdorf presented at the Academy of Forensic Nursing Regional Conference on trauma-informed care. The training, approved for continuing education, addressed the history of trauma, its impact on healthcare professionals, practical applications for forensic nurses, and self-care strategies.