Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Manriquez.
Hi Sarah, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I feel like it’s a calling. I’ve always been a natural helper and knew that I would be working with people as a career in some capacity. I care about people and I care about making the world a better place. Through the years, I have learned more about my intuition and empathic nature which led me to where I am today. In High School, I participated in several church mission trips. We would go into different communities and help with home repairs or volunteer in whatever capacity was needed. I loved the human connections I experienced through the helping process.
During college, I studied abroad in Costa Rica and worked with the Alternative Spring Break programs. These experiences helped me to gain an understanding of diverse cultures beyond my own lived experiences and increased my Spanish skills. I obtained two Bachelor’s degrees – one in Spanish and one in Social Work. After 5 years of college, I needed a break from school. I worked for the next 5 years as a case manager in different settings: HIV/AIDS Clinic, Hospital, Domestic Violence Shelter, New Immigrant Programs and High School. I loved the work, but I also knew I wanted to do more. I returned to school and obtained my Masters in Social Work in 2008.
Over the last 17 years, I have stretched myself as a person and lifelong learner. I have served in management positions, presented at local and state conferences, been interviewed for TV and Podcasts, participated actively on community boards and in local advocacy groups, served as a University level instructor (both in the classroom and in the field) and attended many continuing education trainings. I have received awards and many accolades, but the thing that makes me the most satisfied is seeing the change that I make in someone’s life. I honor being able to accompany someone through their difficulties and seeing them grow and heal.
In the last few years, I have been leaning into my intuitive side and connecting to deeper spiritual practices. These include Tarot and Oracle Reading, Shamanism, Reiki, Medical Intuition and Buddhist Psychology. I use these tools to help me find my footing when I am walking through my own life challenges and accompanying individuals through theirs. These are not necessarily things that I use in my professional practice, but they certainly inform my perspective and are a big part of my self care.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’m not really sure how to answer this question. I certainly don’t think that things have been completely smooth through the years. I have experienced clinical burnout and probably some secondary trauma, but I have my own tools and support network to help me move through the difficult times. A good friend once told me that as a therapist, “you will learn so much more about yourself than you will ever learn about any of your clients.” I can now say that is absolutely true. I have had to dig deeper into self understanding and exploration that many people avoid for most of their lives. I have good days and bad days just like anyone else. Over the years, I have attended trainings that make you figure out your personality type and such. The one that resonates with me the most is learning that I am an INFJ-T personality type. Which basically means that I can be a fierce advocate for others, am highly empathetic and also highly critical of myself. I continue to search for balance between professional advocacy and self compassion.
During the COVID shutdown in 2020, I made some major life changes; I got divorced, quit my job and went into private practice. I was terrified to take these steps, but they had been years in the making. I wanted and needed change in my life. I often say that people either came out of the shutdown with an engagement and a new baby, or a divorce and a new job. Apparently, I chose the later. It was a very scary time for the country, the world and also for me. I took the jump despite my fears and I am so glad that I did. I love what I do and I have maintained a successful therapy practice for the last 5 years.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Clinical Social Worker and fully bilingual (Spanish/English). I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a therapeutic modality for trauma survivors. I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). I utilize these modalities to support the growth and healing of my clients.
I have also taught and supervised many social workers over the years. I received the Margot Award for Outstanding Field Instruction as a practicum instructor. I love that former students continue to seek out my guidance and mentorship as they move forward in their careers because I made an impact in their learning and professional growth.
How do you define success?
I think success is measured by three things: (1) making a lasting, positive impact in the lives of others; (2) leaving things better than you found them and (3) showing up for yourself every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.angelrosecounseling.com
