In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall speaks with Teresa Sands about the complexities of recovery, stigma, and harm reduction. Through powerful reflections, Teresa challenges traditional narratives around addiction, emphasizing the importance of asking individuals what they truly want from recovery. The discussion delves into key themes such as sex work stigma, the war on drugs as a war on people, and the need for culturally responsive pathways to recovery. Together, they explore the value of lived experience in shaping effective care, the role of transparency and accountability in treatment, and the idea that abstinence is not the only path to healing. This episode encourages listeners, both professionals and those in recovery, to rethink societal approaches to substance use and embrace a more inclusive, compassionate model of support.
Guest:
Teresa Sands is a devoted advocate, educator, and leader dedicated to advancing addiction recovery and promoting harm reduction initiatives. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Teresa deeply connects to her community and brings a unique perspective to her work. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a focus on addiction studies from Indiana Tech. She is pursuing her Master of Social Work at the University of Nevada, Reno. Additionally, she is a Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist, blending professional expertise with lived experience to empower individuals affected by Substance Use Disorder (SUD) while keeping people who use drugs safe and ensuring they have a seat at the table. As an Admissions Coordinator, she helps individuals and families overcome the challenges of accessing treatment, guiding clients through the complexities of care, and providing them with the resources and support they need to start their recovery journey. With 18 years of experience in show business, Teresa also brings a unique empathy and understanding to her advocacy for sex workers and survivors of sex trafficking. Her background has fueled her passion for human rights and commitment to creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels respected and supported. Teresa is a proud member of the Recovery Advocacy Project Nevada, where she actively advocates for policies that support all individuals, including people who use drugs. She is also the Nevada Chapter Lead for Young People in Recovery, where she collaborates with amazing community partners to organize harm-reduction workshops, conduct overdose prevention training, facilitate Narcan distribution events, and create pro-social and safe spaces for the LGBTQIA community. Through these efforts, she emphasizes the importance of educating 2 communities about multiple pathways to recovery and ensuring equitable access to care for underserved populations.
