Below are past events!
Scroll below to read, listen or watch the replay!
Scroll below to read, listen or watch the replay!
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As a board member of the Pennsylvania Association of Addictions Professionals (PAAP), I was invited to a panel interview on PCN with TV host, Chris Cap of the Inside PA Boroughs show. The show, "Battling Addiction in the Commonwealth," highlighted to the public the very important and exceptional work of PAAP members across Pennsylvania with those battling addiction.
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March is Problem Gambling Awareness. Gambling disorders is a process addiction. The National Council on Problem Gambling seeks to increase public awareness of problem gambling and promote prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Gambling disorders are not as easy to detect as a substance or alcohol use disorder. So many people are suffering in silence because of it. I had the privilege to talk about it on WHYY. If you or someone you know are having problems with Gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER (or) text 800GAM
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988 Diaspora Campaign for Mental Health
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Holly Sawyer, PhD, LPC, NCC, CAADC, SAP founder of Life First Therapy, offers a special focus on helping professional Black women navigate micro-aggressions in the workplace. “Black women in general face mental health concerns around depression, anxiety, trauma and racism,” Sawyer pointed out. “It is important for Black people to understand that all people have mental health. However, not everyone has a mental illness. Therapy is not just for people who have a mental illness. Furthermore, therapy is just not for white people. When Black folk think therapy is just for white people, it upholds the stigma further. It is important for Black people to know that they can go to therapy for anything that they feel they need to process and it does not necessarily mean you have a mental illness.”
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Incorporating Multiculturalism in Clinical Supervision
Multiculturalism is a valuable and necessary component of effective clinical supervision. We spoke with Holly Sawyer, PhD, NCC, LPC, CAADC, SAP, about the importance of culturally sensitive supervision and advice for incorporating multiculturalism.
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John Mulaney's first call in rehab was from Pete Davidson. Why connection is important for recovery.
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Though he makes no mention of his love life in the special, relationships were at the core of Mulaney's recovery. He speaks throughout the special about how his friends, counselors, fellow patients and even his former drug dealer helped in his recovery. The stories he shares help break stigma surrounding getting help, experts say.
"Whether you know John Mulaney or not, when famous people come out and talk about their substance use disorder recovery journey, it helps," says Holly Sawyer, director of the Masters in Addictions Counseling program at Drexel University. "Everything around substance use disorder is still stigmatized. … The more (those in the public eye) come forward and are honest about their journey, it helps because there are so many people who can't just come out to their families about their substance use disorder." |
Matthew Perry and Alcoholics Anonymous: Does the anonymity perpetuate a stigma?
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Alcoholics Anonymous was founded in Akron, Ohio, in 1935, and one of its core tenants is its dedication to maintaining personal anonymity. According to its website, this provides protection for all members and especially newcomers, allowing disclosure to remain their choice. The word "anonymous" is an option, A.A. says, not an obligation. It's meant to provide as much privacy as an individual may desire.
There are many reasons why people may opt to keep their addiction a secret. Most commonly, the fear of judgement is often all-encompassing, especially in a culture that still demonizes substance use as a "moral failing," rather than a disease. "A.A. provides safe spaces that people could go to, to identify and talk about their addiction because they may have felt ostracized by family members or society at large," says Holly Sawyer, professor and director of the Masters in Addictions Counseling program at Drexel University. "So when you have this community where everyone can be anonymous, that makes you feel like you're not alone, that you're not being judged." |
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I had the pleasure and an amazing time speaking at Killin' It Camp hosted by Joe Sanok, Practice of the Practice in Cancun, Mexico where I spoke about ways you can tap out before burning out when working in and owning a group practice. I led an interactive activity with some of the most amazing private practice therapists where I helped them identify ways they to leverage owning a group practice as passive income.
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Dr. Holly Sawyer presented at the NBCC Foundation 2022 Bridging the Gap Symposium: Eliminating Mental Health Disparities June 4–5, 2022, in the Washington, D.C., metro area. The theme for the Symposium is Elevating Families and Communities, with an emphasis on counseling skills, research, and resources that can improve, strengthen, or enrich the lives of families, communities, and those impacted by trauma.
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How can you learn from others while following your own path? What are some things to consider when working with diverse populations? Why is harm reduction so important?
In the third episode of the Diverse Clinicians Series, Joe Sanok speaks with Dr. Holly Sawyer about making therapy easily accessible to diverse populations. In this Podcast:
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It was a pleasure participating in the health talk conversation with Marley Dyer of Shut Up or Talk Up Wellness lifestyle brand.
* Their goal is to educate on the many specialties within healthcare and the importance of researching and scheduling appointments with the appropriate healthcare providers. * This “Health Talk” initiative focuses on mental, emotional and physical health with medical professionals. I was able to educate and share feedback on these topics! * Hope you enjoy our video chat 😀 |
Practitioners in Mental Health this video is for you. Reynelda Jones , LMSW-C, CAADC, ADS, CIMHP and I are updating our viewers on what has happened with our businesses since the launching of the Glowing Up in Private Practice eBook. If you're thinking of starting your own private practice and are not sure where to start; want to learn about passive and active income outside the therapy room; watch the video below!
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How to Feel Empowered as a Highly Sensitive Person in the WorkplaceThe Am I OK? Podcast helps individuals with issues related to being an empath and a highly sensitive person.
I specifically talked to podcast host, Lisa Lewis, LPC, LMFT about How to Feel Empowered as a Highly Sensitive Person in the Workplace. We dove into...
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How to Implement Self-Care and Prevent Burnout in Your Daily Life with Dr. HollyListen to Sass Says podcast where I predominantly discuss self-care practices and strategies to prevent burnout. Christie and I talk about scheduling sex, self-medicating and addiction, microaggressions in the workplace, trauma, and how therapy is for everyone. I also shared with Christie my own motherhood journey. Remember, therapy is for everyone because all have mental health.
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What are some lessons that you've learned from that COVI(D) life? Venture Cafe Philly hosted a conversation with between Tiara Durham and I about how we manage our sanity and make sense of what has happened over the last 18 months.
Watch Replay Below |
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During the pandemic, we have seen many health challenges and not just due to COVID! Many people have struggled with stress, isolation, mental issues, abuse, and more. Dr. Dee Stokes invited me to join her in helping others understand and learn how to fight against DIS-EASE of all kinds during her Health Awareness series this month. Watch the replay below!
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Eleanor Murkey invited me on her platform to discuss the perspective of a mental health therapist and coach, how gratitude can build confidence, navigating depression, and defining mind focus.
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The Pros of Online TherapyOn Wednesday, March 3rd, I discussed the benefits of online therapy and why it may be the best fit for your life. Watch replay below.
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Mental Health & Communities of Color On Tuesday, February 9th, I was on a panel with other therapists at Slippery Rock University where discussed mental health, the Black community and the benefits of going to therapy. Watch the replay below.
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Targeted Self-Care: Redefining Your Approach to Healthy LivingIf you missed the event on Targeted Self-Care hosted by Community Health Training Alliance, watch the replay below!
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Sip & Tip Business Happy HourHey Friends!
Friday, January 15th, 7-9 pm with Hot and Mobile CEO, Jackie R. I shared helpful tips on how to juggle life as a business owner with a mate, partner and/or family. I also nonjudgmentally shared challenges with having a partner that doesn't understand entrepreneurship and the lack of support. I also co-judged a 60-second pitch competition! |
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On Wednesday, January 13th, Dr. Valerie Daniel, PhD, LCSW and I presented a webinar on Targeted Self-Care for Uniquely Stressful Times. We discussed:
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Addressing Microaggressions:
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On Sunday, January 10th, the Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association invited me to facilitate an important conversation on microaggressions, and how Occupational Therapists need to address this in healthcare and educational environments.
Philly Hott Radio Presents: The Romans 12:2 Experience Radio Show
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I was a 2-time guest on The Romans 12:2 Experience Radio Show where I shared strategies and insight on how to navigate through the holiday season. Watch the replay here!
Philly Hott Radio Presents: The Romans 12:2 Experience Radio Show
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Saturday, September 26th, I was a guest on the Romans 12:2 radio show. Watch the replay!
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Dr. Holly Sawyer Sincerely Syreeta, WURD Radio
I was a guest on WURD's Happy Hour, a talk radio show hosted by Sincerely Syreeta that provides listeners with the soundtrack for life, compelling conversation for thought, and information for an improved livelihood. Happy Hour on WURD ultimately offers an empowering, fresh and innovative platform for millennial's and the broader community to connect.
I shared with listeners and viewers how it became a thing back in 1986 when the Chicago Tribune coined the term to describe how the nation used "retail therapy" to nurse themselves mentally. Today, at least 65% of women use retail therapy to buy clothes, whereas men at 40% buy food. Retail Therapy is the act of shopping in order to feel happier or improve your mood (depression, stress, anxiety, etc.). Anxiety is usually the most common reason people use retail therapy. Please note, retail therapy is a short-term comfort as purchases are considered a "comfort" buy.
I shared with listeners and viewers how it became a thing back in 1986 when the Chicago Tribune coined the term to describe how the nation used "retail therapy" to nurse themselves mentally. Today, at least 65% of women use retail therapy to buy clothes, whereas men at 40% buy food. Retail Therapy is the act of shopping in order to feel happier or improve your mood (depression, stress, anxiety, etc.). Anxiety is usually the most common reason people use retail therapy. Please note, retail therapy is a short-term comfort as purchases are considered a "comfort" buy.
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Retail therapy can turn into an addiction or compulsive buying disorder. If you find yourself doing any of the following, consider seeing a therapist:
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Here are 9 ways to use retail therapy in moderation.
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If you missed me Wednesday, September 9th at Noon where I shared discussed ways to embrace yourself through criticism from a lens of self-love and understanding, you can watch the presentation below!
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Understanding Microaggressions: How to Be Culturally Supportive of Your Employees
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How does an employer handle today’s cultural environment to ensure positive diversity and productivity?
Watch this timely webinar on microaggressions in the workplace and how to avoid them. As an employer, you will learn how to handle today’s cultural environment to ensure positive diversity and productivity. I share the psychological impacts of Microaggressions, how they show up in the workplace, best ways to eliminate them and how to be culturally supportive of employees. I also shared ways to create a more inclusive workplace environment and steps to take to ensure diversity for a sound business.
Watch this timely webinar on microaggressions in the workplace and how to avoid them. As an employer, you will learn how to handle today’s cultural environment to ensure positive diversity and productivity. I share the psychological impacts of Microaggressions, how they show up in the workplace, best ways to eliminate them and how to be culturally supportive of employees. I also shared ways to create a more inclusive workplace environment and steps to take to ensure diversity for a sound business.
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Throughout the month of July, Adonica Shaw, Podcast Host of "I Surrender," is featuring a special series of interviews for minority mental health awareness month to raise awareness about issues that impact minority communities.
I recently spoke with Adonica about How to Manage Racial Microaggressions in the Workplace. |
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Wednesday, July 1st at Noon me and my colleagues shared our stories and experiences with racism. We discussed our different stories.
We shared our black experiences in a safe space. We answered questions from the audience and provided suggestions going forward in the face of ongoing racial injustice with the hope for long-term change to create a better future. If you missed it, click on the replay below! |
Awesome Women in Philly: Launching an Online Therapy Practice
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Dr. Holly has launched an online group practice, The Therapy Loft Collective and is currently hiring for Pennsylvania Licensed Therapists who are looking to practice therapy online. Anyone interested in applying must be licensed, have a Masters degree with 2 or more years of clinical experience. Resumes can be sent to [email protected]
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Strong Witness is a platform founded by LaToya Smith, LPC. Strong Witness is a platform designed to give people a safe space to share their stories, any stories of triumph, victory, pain, joy, gratitude, shame, love or defeat.
Thursday's episode (May 21st) featured Frank Minikon, Kimberly Turner and yours truly! The theme was "under pressure" and "redirection" as Frank discussed his "why" for moving across the country, Kimberly shared her experience with having 4 miscarriages and I dove into the weight of being told "no" in many attempts in trying to climb the latter in the 9 to 5 world while dealing with imposter syndrome once "arriving." Follow Strong Witness on Facebook for live stories every Thursday! |
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On Thursday, May 7th, I was featured at the Science Center, Venture Cafe to share ways to target self-care specifically to your needs and how to access for burnout.
Entrepreneurs wear a lot of different hats. This can result in burnout and negatively impact your relationships, business, physical, emotional, spiritual, social and mental health. Watch below! |
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On Thursday, April 23rd, I was part of a conversation with Frantzcez Lys, MSW and Sabeen Shaiq, LCSW about how to implement the proper balance to ease anxieties and promote balance through a holistic lens to persevere through this pandemic even better than when it started. Watch the replay below!
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On Tuesday, April 21st, I was part of a discussion for singles in the in quarantine to help them transform and renew their mind! Leave feeling encouraged, equipped and empowered. Click below to watch the replay and download the FREE resource guide! |
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On Thursday, April 16th, I was featured at the Science Center, Venture Cafe to share 9 ways to cope with COVID-19.
COVID-19 is an overwhelming experience that many of us are having a hard time adjusting to, properly processing on our own and coping day to day with these presenting challenges. Click below to watch! |
The Resiliency Of Mompreneurs
Building a business already comes with its challenges. It takes an infinite mindset, in other words, there's no overnight to success and you're in it for the long haul. And those who venture into the game, know that the road is hard. It takes dedication and requires patience. It takes being knocked down and getting back up again. It takes a level of vulnerability to trust and to ask for help. It requires a kind of energy that will test your limits.
How Much News Is Too Much News These Days? Here's how to stay informed without becoming overwhelmed
If you regularly watch, listen to or read the news, you’re being inundated by the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis right now. But even before the pandemic dominated the media, there was always plenty of anxiety-inducing content — crime, political division, terrorism —-to watch on 24-hour cable news channels. Of course, it’s important to stay up to date on the news, especially important findings related to COVID-19 and how to keep ourselves and our communities safe. But mental health experts say watching too much bad news can take a toll on your psyche.
How to Use Doxy.me: 10 Tips for Better Telemedicine Sessions
I have been using Doxy.me, for several years to deliver teletherapy to my clients! Many people are not aware of how it works so it may seem overwhelming for the first time. If you're thinking about teletherapy with a therapist that uses Doxy.me, please read some tips on ways I recommend how to get the best user experience. I'm currently providing teletherapy for anyone living in Pennsylvania, Florida and New Jersey. Schedule today!
Coronavirus anxiety is all around. ‘Don’t oversaturate yourself,' Philly experts advise.
As coronavirus cases increase around the country, the idea of a Philadelphia outbreak is causing anxiety for many, therapists and psychologists say. Studies on the mental health effects of quarantine found that people often experience post-traumatic stress symptoms, confusion, and anger. Potential stressors include fears of infection, boredom, inadequate supplies, lack of information, and financial loss.
4 Common Stressors That Hide In Plain Sight
If you're like most folks, you can probably pinpoint the most prominent stressors in your life. This likely involves some combination of work, finances and family—just to name a few. There's also the generous sprinkling of daily stressors, like traffic jams or losing your keys. Click below to learn more!
If You're Journaling to Manage Your Anxiety or Depression, These Therapists' Tips Could Help
If you're interested in journaling to help with your anxiety or depression, click below on how to get started. Please keep in mind that journaling is not meant to replace any treatments you are currently partaking in, and is instead an additional way to potentially help improve your mental health. If you are feeling anxious or depressed and need help finding help or resources, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (1-240-485-1001) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (1-800-950-6264) have resources available.
Welcome Amirra Jenkins, Life First Therapy's First Intern
Life First Therapy gives a warm welcome to its first intern, Amirra Jenkins!
Amirra is a senior at Imhotep Institute Charter High School. She loves turtles and soft batches of chocolate chip cookies. Her favorite subject in school is English. Toni Morrison is her favorite author. Her favorite book by Toni Morrison is The Bluest Eye! Her favorite movies are Scary Movie 2, Shrek 2, and Finding Nemo.
After high school, Amirra will be attending Howard University where she will study Human Development and then pursue her masters and PhD in Social Work. Her future career goal is to become a Social Worker that specializes in mental health because of her own personal experiences and the stigma on mental health in the Black community where she hopes to get rid of the stigma and help bring more awareness! Below is Amirra's blog titled, Rites of Passage:
"A child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health and deserves the same quality of support” (Kate Middleton). In Philadelphia, mental health classes are not mandatory to take and they rarely exist. Unfortunately, there are so many children in public and charter Philadelphia schools who need to have this kind of class. Fortunately for some Philadelphia students, Imhotep Institute Charter High School is a school that provides their students with a much similar class called a Rites of Passage.
Imhotep Institute Charter High School is a cultural African centered school. The school is predominantly black, or African American high school. The environment at the school is amazing and changes for the better each and every year. As far as Imhotep goes, they go out their way to help their students. They have 2 counselors (one male and one female) and a social worker who are always on campus during school hours. Everyone is completely accessible. Other than seeking the counselors or social worker, we are provided with a safe space in our rites of passage class.
Rites of Passage is a ceremony or event marking an important stage in someone's life, especially birth, puberty, marriage, and death. Rites of Passage is mainly practiced in Africa. Imhotep has transformed this tradition into a class with ceremonies that are celebrated among completion each year. This class and completion of all 3 ceremonies are a requirement at Imhotep. Ideally, everything is all cultural.
Rites of passage classes at Imhotep are separated by male and female. Females are given a female teacher and the males are given a male teacher. The female Rites of passage class main purpose is to help our young woman identify who they truly are. One exercise that the instructor always does is “Circle Time”. This is the moment for our young woman to get a circle and open up about whatever we feel comfortable discussing and then we all comfort and help one another by giving advice. These are not mental health sessions but they definitely feel like one. Every time we form that circle and we are able to freely speak one whatever and this makes things feel so good for us all. The weights are definitely being lifted from our shoulders and it makes the school feel like a place of comfort.
The connection between mental health and rites of passage is very important to understand. Especially for African American children, who endure so much trauma and experiences that have a powerful effect on our mental health and abilities. I truly believe there should be mandatory mental health classes in schools. This is how we can tackle the mental health crisis within the youth. This is a step worth taking. The moment we fight for this is the moment mental health won't be a critical issue for our future. We can make this happen.
“Birds sing not because they have answers but because they have songs.” — African proverb
Amirra is a senior at Imhotep Institute Charter High School. She loves turtles and soft batches of chocolate chip cookies. Her favorite subject in school is English. Toni Morrison is her favorite author. Her favorite book by Toni Morrison is The Bluest Eye! Her favorite movies are Scary Movie 2, Shrek 2, and Finding Nemo.
After high school, Amirra will be attending Howard University where she will study Human Development and then pursue her masters and PhD in Social Work. Her future career goal is to become a Social Worker that specializes in mental health because of her own personal experiences and the stigma on mental health in the Black community where she hopes to get rid of the stigma and help bring more awareness! Below is Amirra's blog titled, Rites of Passage:
"A child’s mental health is just as important as their physical health and deserves the same quality of support” (Kate Middleton). In Philadelphia, mental health classes are not mandatory to take and they rarely exist. Unfortunately, there are so many children in public and charter Philadelphia schools who need to have this kind of class. Fortunately for some Philadelphia students, Imhotep Institute Charter High School is a school that provides their students with a much similar class called a Rites of Passage.
Imhotep Institute Charter High School is a cultural African centered school. The school is predominantly black, or African American high school. The environment at the school is amazing and changes for the better each and every year. As far as Imhotep goes, they go out their way to help their students. They have 2 counselors (one male and one female) and a social worker who are always on campus during school hours. Everyone is completely accessible. Other than seeking the counselors or social worker, we are provided with a safe space in our rites of passage class.
Rites of Passage is a ceremony or event marking an important stage in someone's life, especially birth, puberty, marriage, and death. Rites of Passage is mainly practiced in Africa. Imhotep has transformed this tradition into a class with ceremonies that are celebrated among completion each year. This class and completion of all 3 ceremonies are a requirement at Imhotep. Ideally, everything is all cultural.
Rites of passage classes at Imhotep are separated by male and female. Females are given a female teacher and the males are given a male teacher. The female Rites of passage class main purpose is to help our young woman identify who they truly are. One exercise that the instructor always does is “Circle Time”. This is the moment for our young woman to get a circle and open up about whatever we feel comfortable discussing and then we all comfort and help one another by giving advice. These are not mental health sessions but they definitely feel like one. Every time we form that circle and we are able to freely speak one whatever and this makes things feel so good for us all. The weights are definitely being lifted from our shoulders and it makes the school feel like a place of comfort.
The connection between mental health and rites of passage is very important to understand. Especially for African American children, who endure so much trauma and experiences that have a powerful effect on our mental health and abilities. I truly believe there should be mandatory mental health classes in schools. This is how we can tackle the mental health crisis within the youth. This is a step worth taking. The moment we fight for this is the moment mental health won't be a critical issue for our future. We can make this happen.
“Birds sing not because they have answers but because they have songs.” — African proverb
9 Ways To Help A Friend Going Through A Crisis
Here are 9 ways to help a friend going through a crisis. I was featured on the 7th tip.
Black Teens who Experience Daily Racial Discrimination Show Depressive Symptoms
Black teens experience several forms of racial discrimination every day, which leads to increased short-term depressive symptoms, according to a study by researchers at Rutgers University.
31 Days of Healthy Relationship Tips: Day 13 with Dr Holly Sawyer (Aired 12/13/19)
On this feature hosted by Sharon J. Lawrence, LCSW - C, I discuss healthy relationships. I share tips and techniques for those that find themselves riddled in guilt and involved in strained relationships with a desire to have a relationship even when it is dismissive towards themselves. I talk more about what one can do to help make this difficult shift happen. Grieving old parts of yourself that you are outgrowing is natural.
Although therapy is dope, it is a process and it takes work to heal. The real work happens between sessions. I encourage you to do your work.
Although therapy is dope, it is a process and it takes work to heal. The real work happens between sessions. I encourage you to do your work.
The need for cultural competency in therapy is so critical when working with African American clients. Having a therapist of color who understand your culture, oppression, issues that relate to your struggles is key to helping you gain the necessary life skills for success! Best thing is most therapists of color are the therapist they needed when they needed a therapist so they know exactly where you’re coming from!
I had the pleasure of being on Annie Schuessler's podcast, Rebel Therapist! Being a Rebel Therapist and working with Annie has been life changing. Take a listen as we kick the breeze on "writing your book."
Women and Guns
How do you feel about women owning guns? Are you a woman who owns a gun? Are guns just for men?
Microaggressions in the Workplace
Melanin and Mental Health are two dope therapists and hosts of the Between Sessions Podcast. It is a live streaming discussion to social media to increase awareness about mental health. As their special guest, I had the opportunity to discuss microaggressions in the workplace.
How to Have a Voice
Shrinks on Third podcast episode titled How to Have a Voice discusses Life First Therapy and the work Dr. Holly does around micro-aggressions towards professional black women.
An Interview with an Addiction Counselor: Dr. Holly Sawyer
