Sarah Schonian, Ph.D., LMFT

I received my Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Upon completion of my masters, I continued my academic journey at Texas Tech University, where I received my Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy in the Department of Community, Family, and Addiction Sciences.

I have research, teaching, and clinical experience working with substance use disorders, process or behavioral addictions (e.g., eating disorders, self-harm, gambling, etc.), trauma, and other mental health diagnoses. I taught an undergraduate course entitled, Understanding Alcohol, Drugs and Addictive Behaviors at Texas Tech University, where I was given the opportunity to teach and mentor students about both substance and process-related addictions. In addition to my clinical and teaching experience in the field of addiction and recovery, I also have experience as a researcher. More specifically, I have been involved with several research teams; designing and implementing various research projects related to addiction and recovery. I have served as a mentor to others interested in research in the field of mental health, addiction, and recovery. .

I worked as a mental health professional in various settings, including residential treatment, inpatient psychiatric care, outpatient facilities, and private practice. My primary area of clinical focus has been individuals, couples, and families living with substance use and co-occurring eating and mental health disorders. I have experience in curriculum development, implementing research-based protocol and intervention, and leadership experience. I have also trained other therapists on subjects related to appropriate clinical interventions for substance use and other process addictions, professionalism in behavioral health-related fields, and other relevant topics. Outside of my clinical experience, I have owned and operated a residential treatment facility for women seeking recovery from substance use and eating disorders. Throughout my experience as a business owner, I found a passion for the design and implementation of more effective strategies and operating systems for healthcare-related businesses. I have provided consultation to help healthcare and other wellness-related businesses implement strategies for growth, structure, compliance, and efficiency.