Photo Credit: Sahra Robinson

Sahra Robinson, a dedicated advocate for women’s well-being, celebrates Women’s History Month by amplifying the importance of understanding and prioritizing the unique mental needs and challenges faced by women. With a passion for enhancing overall wellness and quality of life, Sahra has made it her mission to empower women, nurture their mental health, and foster a deeper understanding of their individual journeys.

Through her work as a psychotherapist and founder of Serenity Zone, Sahra has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of addressing and supporting women’s mental health. Her personal experiences, including caring for her mother at a young age and overcoming her own challenges, have shaped her empathetic approach to helping women navigate through life’s obstacles.

By recognizing the significance of Women’s History Month, Sahra aims to shed light on the accomplishments, struggles, and resilience of women throughout history. She believes that by comprehending and prioritizing the mental well-being of each client, women can unlock their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

Join us as we delve into Sahra Robinson’s inspiring journey, her commitment to advocating for women’s health, and her unwavering dedication to empowering women during Women’s History Month and beyond.

Thank you for joining us today. Can you tell us about your journey in healthcare and how it began?

Sahra Robinson: Certainly. My exposure to healthcare started when I was just 20 years old. My mother had a massive stroke, and I suddenly became her caregiver while also taking on the responsibilities of being the head of the household. It was a challenging time, as I had no prior training or preparedness for such a role. However, my mother always emphasized the importance of taking a moment to breathe. I started practicing breathing exercises to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Additionally, I created a “no” list to prioritize my time and establish healthy boundaries.

It’s incredible how you found strength in such difficult circumstances. How did this experience shape your career path?

Sahra: My mother’s resilience and the impact I had on her care inspired me to pursue a career in social work. At the age of 21, I graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Work and became a psychotherapist. My mother always believed that I had a gift for connecting with people and helping them through challenging times, and I turned that into a fulfilling career.

That’s truly inspiring. In your work, you mentioned the importance of handling and conquering diversity. Could you elaborate on your approach?

Sahra: Working with diverse populations can be a challenge, as people may question how someone different from them can understand or relate to their experiences. I firmly believe that authenticity and empathy are key to handling and conquering diversity. By being genuine and empathetic, we can create connections and bridge gaps in understanding.

Absolutely. Women often bring unique qualities to the healthcare industry. What are some of these qualities, in your opinion?

Sahra: Women bring nurturing, empathy, strong communication skills, and a holistic approach to healthcare. These qualities contribute to a more compassionate and patient-centered approach to wellness.

It’s wonderful to see the positive impact women make in healthcare. Could you share a success story that you are proud of?

Sahra: One success story that stands out is my work with a 40-year-old male client who was going through a difficult divorce. He was dealing with depression, anxiety, and overwhelming circumstances. We worked together for almost two years, and when he completed treatment, he had transformed his life. He was sober, employed, in a healthy romantic relationship, and practicing the relaxation techniques he learned in therapy. Years later, he reached out to express his gratitude for saving his life. It’s moments like these that reaffirm the importance of the work we do.

That’s truly remarkable. As we discuss women’s health, what pressing issue do you believe affects women in healthcare?

Sahra: One pressing issue affecting women in healthcare is the lack of emphasis on preventative mental health care. While preventative care is strongly advocated for in physical health, mental health often takes a backseat. It’s crucial to promote psychoeducation and early detection of mental health issues to ensure women receive the necessary support and resources.

Absolutely. Advocacy plays a vital role in addressing these issues. How are you advocating for women’s health and well-being?

Sahra: I am actively joining and getting involved in various platforms that promote women’s health and well-being. By raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and supporting initiatives, we can collectively work towards better healthcare outcomes for women.

That’s wonderful to hear. Lastly, what advice would you give to those starting their healthcare journey, particularly women?

Sahra: I would encourage anyone starting their healthcare journey to make emotional connections by being transparent, authentic, and respectful. Actively listen to others, truly hearing what they have to say. Building authentic connections is crucial in providing meaningful support and care.

Thank you for sharing your valuable insights and experiences with us. Your journey is truly inspiring, and we appreciate your contributions to the healthcare field.

Sahra: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure to share my story and advocate for women’s health during Women’s History Month.

Written in partnership with Tom White