Authenticity in Therapy and Life
In this week's episode of Finding the Unicorn in You, Dr. Jaime G. Raygoza sits down with Sara Stanizai, a licensed marriage and family therapist and owner of Prospect Therapy. Sara's journey from art history student to mental health professional offers valuable insights into cultural competency, ethical business practices, and the importance of authenticity.
A Unique Path to Mental Health
Sara's background as a first-generation American born to Afghan parents in Los Angeles shaped her perspective on cultural identity and mental health. Her career path took unexpected turns, from studying art history and Latin to working in marketing and social services. Seven years in forensics, progressing from case manager to supervisor, provided a solid foundation for her eventual launch of Prospect Therapy in 2018.
Prospect Therapy: A Safe Space for Diverse Communities
Prospect Therapy stands out as a queer and trans affirming practice that focuses on first-generation Americans and immigrant communities. Sara's approach emphasizes:
Cultural competency in therapy
Creating safe spaces for vulnerability
Matching clients with appropriate therapists, even if it means referring them elsewhere
Balancing Ethics and Business
Sara openly discusses the challenges of reconciling personal values with running a corporation. Her commitment to ethical practices is evident in:
Providing inclusive benefits, including health insurance for disabled employees
Setting appropriate pricing while maintaining ethical standards
Avoiding unnecessary client retention
Mental Health Insights
Sara shares valuable perspectives on mental health management:
Advocating for alternative journaling methods, like recording thoughts as if doing a podcast
Emphasizing the importance of therapists having their own therapists
Discussing delayed emotional processing and stress management techniques
Navigating Cultural Identity
Sara's experiences as an Afghan-American, particularly around 9/11, offer powerful insights into the complexities of cultural identity. She stresses the importance of cultural competency in therapy while acknowledging that some clients may prefer therapists from different backgrounds.
The Unicorn Lesson: Authenticity and Intentional Living
Sara's key life philosophy encapsulates the essence of "Finding the Unicorn in You":
"Don't be sorry. If you are sorry for what you're doing or saying, then don't do it. And if you are going to do it, then don't apologize for it."
This powerful statement emphasizes:
Making deliberate choices
Owning decisions
Acknowledging that helping others may require sacrifice, but should be a conscious choice
Sara's "unicorn lesson" serves as a reminder to live authentically and purposefully in both personal and professional spheres.
Conclusion
Sara Stanizai's journey and insights offer a compelling look at the intersections of personal identity, professional ethics, mental health practice, and business management. Her commitment to authenticity and cultural competency in therapy provides valuable lessons for professionals across various fields.
Don't miss our next episode of Finding the Unicorn in You for more inspiring stories and insights into personal growth and professional development!
Connect with Sara Stanizai:
For therapy services:
Website: prospecttherapy.com
Instagram: @prospecttherapy
For business coaching and other services:
Website: sarahstanizai.com
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