Creating Inclusive Recovery Spaces: Insights from Grachelle Sherburne
So one of the things that I think we can do to help make progress is number one: set your intention, know your why.
How can we make recovery more inclusive for people of color? That's the pressing question Grachelle Sherburne tackles in this episode of Soberful. As a diversity and inclusion consultant, Grachelle joins hosts Veronica Valli and Chip Somers to shed light on the unique challenges faced by minorities in addiction and sobriety. Her conversation is both eye-opening and heartfelt, offering a fresh perspective on creating safe spaces for those who often feel marginalized in traditional recovery settings.
Grachelle dives into the importance of uncomfortable yet necessary conversations about race and addiction. She emphasizes the need for inclusivity and awareness, pointing out the blind spots that many might not even realize exist. Through her expertise, she shares actionable steps to improve outcomes for people of color in recovery. One of the standout topics in this episode is equine-assisted therapy.
Grachelle explains how working with horses can be a transformative experience for those in recovery, helping them practice and learn vital therapeutic skills in a non-judgmental environment. It's a fascinating look at an unconventional but effective method of support. The episode also touches on the historical context of racism and its impact on substance use and addiction. Grachelle discusses how the war on drugs has disproportionately affected people of color, leading to significant disparities in addiction and sobriety outcomes.
Her insights are not just informative but also a call to action for better education and intentional efforts to address these inequalities. Whether you're in recovery yourself, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in learning more about the intersection of race and addiction, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice. Tune in to hear Grachelle's wisdom and join the conversation on making recovery spaces safer and more inclusive for everyone.