Today we’d like to introduce you to Taz Barnes Sartor.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My name is Taz Barnes Sartor. I am the founder and owner of Lighthouse Therapeutic Services (LTS)- an outpatient mental health clinic based in Lanham, MD. I am a licensed therapist with over ten years of experience working with underserved populations. My passion for this work began in childhood, back in Sacramento, CA where I grew a deep empathy and commitment towards supporting individuals experiencing housing and food insecurity. It was then that I recognized early, that all people are multifaceted and are ultimately doing the best that they can with the resources accessible to them.
During the pandemic, as society grappled with slowing down and reflecting on challenges, I seen it as an opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and create LTS. The aim was to provide a beacon of hope in the dark times, encouraging people to find inner resilience and cope with life’s challenges. My vision for LTS was to offer mental health services that adapt to the evolving needs of our clients and provides a nurturing environment that fosters healing, growth and empowerment.
I believe it is my life’s purpose to be a change agent by fostering a community where individuals can thrive despite adversity. At LTS, we strive to do this everyday by bridging gaps in mental health access and empowering people to navigate their personal challenges with confidence and support.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Creating and establishing an outpatient mental health clinic has been anything but a smooth road, marked by significant challenges and obstacles. One of the primary struggles has been the lack of representation, particularly as a Black woman in the field. This underrepresentation can lead to a feeling of isolation and an additional hurdle in navigating professional spaces where diversity is limited.
Furthermore, the complexities of obtaining accreditation and licensure represent substantial hurdles. These processes are often demanding, requiring an in-depth understanding of regulatory standards and meticulous attention to detail. Securing a physical facility adds another layer of challenge, involving negotiations, financial planning, and meeting community needs.
In overcoming these obstacles, gaining insight through collaboration with knowledgeable colleagues has been crucial. Sharing experiences and building a supportive network has provided much needed guidance and encouragement. I am thankful to God for keeping me in moments where it was challenging to see the light.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Lighthouse Therapeutic Services?
Lighthouse Therapeutic Services (LTS), is an outpatient mental health clinic based in Lanham, MD. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services with a focus on therapy, medication management, substance use treatment and resource linkage. Our holistic approach aims to address the needs of individuals, couples, families, and communities through prevention, intervention, treatment, and education. Our clinic strives to immerse ourselves into the community through various outreach events to include our Mental Health Awareness Walk, Thanksgiving Giveaway, and Annual Toy Drive.
At the heart of LTS’s mission is the WE CARE model:
Wellness- directed towards the optimal care of everyone;
Excellence-in providing consistent, reliable, and trustworthy service;
Compassion – towards the community we serve;
Acceptance – of everyone’s right to compassionate care;
Respect – of everyone’s unique path towards their own healing;
Empowerment – in each individual voice and encouragement to participate in their own care;
These principles are our framework for building a supportive environment, aiming not only to treat but also to educate and empower our clients- helping them achieve long-term wellness and resilience. Through these endeavors, LTS strives to become a cornerstone in mental health support within our community.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
My faith in God followed by my passion to serve others experiencing mental health challenges. Let’s be real, life can be hard- so I am very intentional about sowing seeds of kindness, compassion, empathy, and respect. Striving daily to be self disciplined and goal oriented is a plus.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ltherapeuticservices.com/
- Instagram: ltherapeuticservices
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LTherapeuticServicesDMV/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lighthouse-therapeutic-services-3a0648250/
