Welcome, My name is Sarah Karkanis, and I am a Registered Psychotherapist and operator of Sanctuary Wellness Clinic in Toronto, with limited availability in Whitby.

I support individuals who feel stuck in cycles they can’t think their way out of—patterns of perfectionism, over-functioning, shutdown, emotional overwhelm, or the constant pressure to “optimize” themselves. Many of my clients look put-together on the outside but feel disconnected, exhausted, or trapped inside old relational patterns on the inside.

My work is rooted in trauma recovery, somatic therapy, and EMDR, with a deep trust in the nervous system’s capacity to heal. I take a slow, relational, body-based approach—integrating EMDR gently and intentionally rather than rushing through protocol-driven models. Together, we explore the underlying patterns that keep you stuck and reconnect you with the wisdom of your body.

My therapeutic approach weaves together attachment-based work, Somatic Experiencing® training (currently Intermediate I), polyvagal principles, and client-centered therapy. Our work focuses on building internal safety, developing emotional regulation, unlearning old coping strategies, and strengthening the mind–body connection.

This is a space to understand yourself more deeply—not by striving or self-correcting, but by coming home to your body, your boundaries, and your authentic way of being.

Welcome, My name is Sarah Karkanis, and I am a Registered Psychotherapist and operator of Sanctu... Read More