Welcome To Willfull Journey’s -I'm William Sawyer, MSW, LICSW
Virtual Therapy for Individuals and Couples in Minnesota & Florida
Meet Will
Hi, I’m Will (he/him). I’m a transformation therapist and the founder of Willful Journeys. I’m openly queer, and my life has been full of ups and downs. I dropped out of high school, joined the Mormon church, got married to a woman, and became a dad. Later, I went back to school, earned my GED, two bachelor’s degrees, and a master’s in social work. After all that, I came out as gay, found my true self, and built a new life with my husband, Bill. I’ve faced depression, anxiety, binge eating, and even survived a heart attack-but I never gave up on making positive changes.
My Family and My Animals
I live in Florida with my husband Bill. We’ve been together since 2001 and are still each other’s biggest supporters. Our family includes Bindi, our Corgi, who brings a lot of joy to our home. My horse, Herbie (registered name: Ibrakadabra KH), is a Rhinelander imported from Germany. Herbie’s father, Ideal de La Loge, is a champion show jumper who has won major competitions around the world. Herbie and I compete together, and he’s a big part of my journey back to health and happiness.
What Horses Have Taught Me
Herbie isn’t just a horse-he’s my partner and teacher. Working with him has taught me about trust, patience, and resilience. Horses are honest and require you to be present and genuine. I use these lessons in my therapy practice, helping people learn how to rebuild trust, manage emotions, and face challenges with courage. My connection with Herbie reminds me-and my clients-that growth is always possible.
How I Help Others
About 25% of my clients are LGBTQIA+, but I welcome everyone: teens, adults, people of all backgrounds, and those facing tough times. I help people with anxiety, depression, trauma, coming out, relationship struggles, and more. I use what I’ve learned from my own life, plus advanced training in therapy methods like DBT, EMDR, CBT, IFS, and the Gottman Method for couples. My approach is honest, supportive, and non-judgmental. I believe it’s never too late to change your life or find hope.
My Education
My path to becoming a therapist was unique. I left high school early, but later earned my GED and an associate’s degree. I then completed two Bachelor of Science degrees-one in Psychology and one in Family Studies-at Weber State University. After that, I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Brigham Young University. I’ve also completed advanced trainings in:
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Levels 1 & 2)
I have attended World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) and always keep learning so I can help my clients in the best way possible.
Ready to start your Willful Journey?
If you want to make a change, I’m here to help you take the next step.
Willful Journeys: Real Support for Real Change
Serving the LGBTQIA+ community and anyone ready to transform-in Florida and beyond, in person or online.
My Approach
I specialize in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. My approach is non-judgmental and compassionate, creating a safe space for you to explore your inner world, process trauma, and build practical solutions for lasting change. I believe that healing happens from the inside out, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
For couples-especially those in crisis or on the verge of separation-I draw on Emotionally Focused Therapy, the Gottman Method, and inspiration from modern romance research. My goal is to help partners rebuild trust, improve communication, and rediscover intimacy and connection.
About half of my clients are queer individuals or couples. I am committed to providing affirming, expert support for those navigating coming out, relationship challenges, trauma, and gender transitions. I’ve completed extensive WPATH training to support transgender clients at every stage of their journey.
I also have a unique specialty working with equestrians and high-performing teens and adults, helping them address challenges like ADHD, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders-so they can achieve their goals both in and out of the arena.
Who I Work With
- Individuals seeking clarity, healing, and personal growth
- Couples striving for deeper connection, understanding, and resilience
- LGBTQ+ individuals and families looking for affirming, expert care
- Equestrians and high performers overcoming barriers to success
Why Work With Me?
I bring both lived experience and professional expertise to every session. My style is warm, collaborative, and results-focused. I offer flexible, virtual sessions throughout Minnesota and Florida, with sliding scale options to ensure accessibility. If you’re curious about working together, I invite you to start with a complimentary 15-minute consultation to see if we’re a good fit.
Ready to take the next step?
Let’s work together to help you heal, grow, and thrive-just as you are.
This format introduces you authentically, highlights your specialties, and warmly invites clients to connect.