We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sarah Mauskapf. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sarah below.
Sarah, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
From a young age, when asked to describe myself, creative was always one of the first words that came to mind. I’ve always loved the arts and began studying music in the second grade. This curiosity and passion for music continued throughout my childhood, and you could always find me doodling or exploring a new craft. I learned to quilt and crochet from my paternal grandmother, my maternal grandmother always let me help her stitch afghans, and both of my grandfathers never hesitated to let me help in the workshop. My creative roots started at a young age, and my family helped nurture that creativity into something lasting and meaningful.
I’ve always understood the power of the arts, and the stars seemed to align when I learned about music therapy during my junior year of high school. I’ve been practicing music therapy since 2014, and from the beginning, I knew I wanted to expand my ability to support others through creative expression. This desire led me to pursue a master’s degree in art therapy and clinical mental health counseling. This combination of disciplines has allowed me to merge my creativity with my passion for helping others, to harness the arts as a bridge to healing, self-expression, and growth.
Working in a field centered on creativity can also lead to creative burnout, which is something I’ve experienced firsthand. The things that once brought me joy started to feel like obligations. So, how does one keep creativity alive? For me, it’s a multifaceted process that begins with caring for myself as a person, not just as a professional. That means setting boundaries, engaging in restorative self-care, and giving myself permission to step away. Like many creatives, I find it hard to “switch off,” so I’ve learned to be intentional about scheduling downtime and identifying what truly replenishes me… whether that’s being outdoors, spending time with family, or simply allowing space to do nothing at all.
Another way I keep creativity alive is by embracing novelty and newness. Exploring something unfamiliar – whether it’s a new art form, a different medium, or a fresh perspective – rekindles my curiosity and excitement. For me, that often takes shape in the form of photography. I don’t typically integrate photography into my therapeutic work. It’s something I do purely for myself. Photography allows me to view the world through a different lens, and it helps me reconnect with my creativity.
For me, keeping creativity alive is an ongoing balancing act between giving and restoring, creating and resting, routine and discovery.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m a professional counselor, board-certified music therapist, and registered art therapist with over a decade of experience in mental health and educational settings. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Music Therapy from Slippery Rock University and dual Master of Arts degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy from Pennsylvania Western University.
In 2024, I founded Beyond Words Creative Arts Therapy with the mission of providing compassionate, creative, and individualized care. Healing and growth is not one-size-fits-all, and I believe everyone deserves a space to be heard, supported, and empowered in the way they communicate best. Whether through music, visual art, or reflective conversation, creative arts therapy offers unique and accessible pathways to emotional growth and self-discovery.
I live in Pittsburgh, PA, with my husband and our two young sons. Inspired by my own journey as a mother and therapist, I’ve always dreamed of creating a space that feels both creative and compassionate – a space for connection, healing, and hope. Beyond Words brings that dream to life by integrating expressive arts with traditional talk therapy in a welcoming, inclusive environment.
In addition to supporting individuals and families, I’m deeply passionate about helping the helpers. I understand the emotional weight carried by educators, therapists, parents, and caregivers, and I’m committed to offering a space where they can process, recharge, and reconnect with their purpose. Through creative supervision, expressive workshops, and individual therapy, I aim to support those who so often put others first.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three qualities that have shaped my journey the most are work ethic, a learner’s mindset, and a positive attitude.
Work ethic has been the foundation of everything I do. I’ve always believed in showing up fully – whether that’s for my clients, colleagues, or creative projects. I often joke that my drive is part dedication and part anxiety, but the truth is, consistent effort matters more than perfection. For anyone early in their journey, focus on building habits that help you stay consistent.
A learner’s mindset has kept me growing both personally and professionally. In fields like counseling and creative arts therapy, professional development is essential to staying effective and responsive to the people we serve. Staying curious, seeking feedback, and trying new approaches keeps us evolving and prevents burnout. For those starting out, embrace learning as a lifelong practice.
Finally, a positive attitude has been essential. Not in a “toxic positivity” way, but as a conscious choice to see possibility and meaning in the work. In creative and helping professions especially, there are days that test your patience, empathy, and hope. Choosing optimism allows me to stay grounded in purpose and connected to why I do this work. For those early in their journey: protect your sense of hope. Surround yourself with people and practices that help you refill your cup, because your energy is part of the work you offer others.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
Over the past 12 months, my biggest area of growth has been strengthening my boundaries. Just because something once felt right doesn’t mean it still serves you. Over the last year, I’ve been intentional about putting myself in spaces where I’m respected, wanted, appreciated, and valued.
This shift has impacted both my personal and professional life. In my work as a therapist, it allows me to show up more fully for my clients while modeling healthy boundaries and self-respect. It has also helped me be clearer about how I spend my time, energy, and focus, so I can invest in what truly matters.
My family has always been my foundation, reminding me of my worth and providing unwavering support, and my husband has been an incredible partner and source of stability. He supports me emotionally, celebrates my achievements, and reminds me to pause and take care of myself along the way. His perspective and encouragement have helped me navigate challenges with resilience, making this period of growth possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.therapy-beyondwords.com/
- Instagram: TherapyBeyondWords
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