I come to the practice of counseling after many years working in student services in a university setting. I find (as the research continues to show) that the most important element of effective counseling is the connection between client and counselor—we will work collaboratively. I draw on many approaches including but not limited to client-centered, mindfulness, existential therapy, attachment theory, Buddhist psychology, and internal parts work. Working in the safety of the environment we create together, you will uncover and nurture a kind, curious, warm relationship with yourself.
I am in network with Aetna, UHC/Optum, Excellus BCBS and a few others through the billing company Headway. I also take direct pay (sliding scale is $170 to $120). I meet with clients mostly online through a HIPAA compliant video platform and sometimes in person. Currently (Winter 2026), I do not have openings for new clients but I do have a waitlist.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I am licensed to practice in New York, Connecticut, Maine, and New Mexico, and registered for online counseling in South Carolina.
My current recommended reading and listening is anything from Terry Real or Richard Schwartz (see references below).
Email for an appointment, or to be put on my waitlist:
sarahhilsman@innercovecounseling.com;
607-227-4208
Recommended Reading / Listening / Viewing:
Richard Schwartz, No Bad Parts
Podcast with Richard Schwartz, Recovering Every Part of Ourselves
Terrence Real, I Don't Want to Talk About it: Overcoming the Secret Legacy of Male Depression
Podcast with Terry Real on male depression
Terrence Real, Us: Getting Past You and Me to Build a More Loving Relationship
Podcast with Terry Real on relationships
Terrence Real, Fierce Intamacy: Standing Up to One Another with Love
Tara Brach, Awakening from the Trance of Unworthiness
Andrew and Katrina Katen: Teaching Others How to Treat You: The Art of Boundary Setting
Brene Brown, TED talk on vulnerability: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCvmsMzlF7o
Diane Poole Heller, The Power of Attachment
Thais Gibson, Attachment Theory: A Guide to Strengthening the Relationships in Your Life
Dan Harris, 10% Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head...
Tara Brach, Radical Acceptance (book) and any podcast or video with Tara Brach
Harriet Lerner, Dance of Connection