Sara Collins, Intern
Hi friends! My name is Sara Collins, and I’m a Master of Social Work student at the University of Georgia. I am currently in my final year of the program. I’m grateful for the opportunity to join Athens Therapy Co-Op as an intern this year as I continue my journey toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with a specialization in play therapy.
Working with children has always felt like a calling. There’s something incredibly powerful about witnessing a child’s growth—watching them develop new skills, express themselves more freely, and become more resilient with time. Seeing those shifts happen right in front of me is one of the most meaningful parts of the work, and it reminds me why I show up every day.
Over the years, I’ve supported children and families in a variety of settings. I’ve worked in a residential treatment center with youth navigating trauma and mental health challenges, and I’ve partnered with the Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) to support families involved in the foster system as they work toward reunification. I currently serve as a Patient Activity Specialist at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA), where I create developmentally appropriate, play-based experiences for children during their hospital stay.
Beyond direct clinical work, I’ve also worked in the school system, directed a summer camp, and partnered with the YMCA and other nonprofits to coordinate social-emotional learning (SEL) programming. These experiences have deepened my belief in the healing power of safe relationships, playful learning, and community care.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time in nature, engaging in ongoing trainings, learning new skills, planning for the future, and being with the people I love. I’m truly honored to be part of your child’s journey and look forward to connecting with you!
Working with children has always felt like a calling. There’s something incredibly powerful about witnessing a child’s growth—watching them develop new skills, express themselves more freely, and become more resilient with time. Seeing those shifts happen right in front of me is one of the most meaningful parts of the work, and it reminds me why I show up every day.
Over the years, I’ve supported children and families in a variety of settings. I’ve worked in a residential treatment center with youth navigating trauma and mental health challenges, and I’ve partnered with the Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) to support families involved in the foster system as they work toward reunification. I currently serve as a Patient Activity Specialist at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA), where I create developmentally appropriate, play-based experiences for children during their hospital stay.
Beyond direct clinical work, I’ve also worked in the school system, directed a summer camp, and partnered with the YMCA and other nonprofits to coordinate social-emotional learning (SEL) programming. These experiences have deepened my belief in the healing power of safe relationships, playful learning, and community care.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time in nature, engaging in ongoing trainings, learning new skills, planning for the future, and being with the people I love. I’m truly honored to be part of your child’s journey and look forward to connecting with you!
