Jon StojanTherapy is a tool for receiving validation and support in moving through life’s challenges. Whether used short-term for specific stressors or long-term to discover negative patterns of behavior and thinking, it can be instrumental in helping someone feel understood and empowered. When offered in a safe, collaborative, and non-judgemental way, therapy can transform lives. People of all ages benefit from receiving therapy to address challenges and concerns. Each practitioner has unique strategies to offer, making it important for clients to select the right care provider.
Sara B. Glazer (LCSW), a clinical therapist and life coach serving as the Clinical Director of California Centers for Recovery, is working to destigmatize addiction and other challenges clients face. Her passion for helping others inspired her to explore a minor in psychology during her undergraduate, leading her to pursue a Master’s in social work. Sara is deeply interested in the psychological aspects behind substance abuse, particularly how it can affect everyone, no matter their background.
“Since the beginning of my career in therapy, I have mostly focused on addiction and substance abuse,” Sara says. “People of all ages, races, and economic backgrounds are connected through an addiction, making it an intriguing aspect to study, but also a complex thing to support others through. The level of stigma varies depending on a person’s cultural background, adding another layer of difficulty for helping them get sober.”
Outside of addiction, Sara is also certified to help clients with ADHD, anxiety, and depression related struggles. Her experience with EMDR is another valuable tool adolescents, adults, and couples can use to process traumatic memories that may prevent them from living to their fullest.
As Sara was completing her degree in social work, an internship at a youth homeless shelter opened her eyes to the harsh realities of treating addiction. Clients often wait too long to seek help out of shame, and families can also exacerbate this issue. Depending on how a client’s family members view therapy and addiction, they can sometimes prevent someone from receiving treatment. A lack of awareness about the early signs of addiction can also make intervention nearly impossible.
Despite numerous reasons why addiction isn’t treated, there is still hope for patients and their families. Practitioners like Sara aim to educate the masses about addiction through keynote speaking and public engagements.
“Whether we’re addressing mental health or addiction, advocacy work is pivotal for reducing stigma and encouraging people to ask for help when they need it,” Sara says. “Through education and accessible therapy services, I hope I can help hundreds if not thousands of people and their families heal the wounds of addiction and trauma.”
As Sara explores opportunities to share these messages in the media, she will continue empowering individuals to meet their long-term goals by coordinating care for those that she manages and offering a safe space for her clients.