About A Safe Space for Self Injury Support

Sarah Brecht is the Founder and Group Leader of A Safe Space for Self Injury Support, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals affected by self-injury. With over 29 years of personal experience and 9 years as a group leader in a S.A.F.E. Alternatives support group at St. Thomas Hospital in Akron, Sarah brings extensive lived experience and professional insight to her leadership role.Sarah holds certifications in Youth Mental Health First Aid from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and is certified as a group leader in the NAMI Educational Programs: NAMI Hearts & Minds, NAMI Sharing Hope, and NAMI Ending the Silence. Her advocacy extends beyond her leadership, as she has volunteered with the Self Injury Foundation and mentored individuals at Running2bWell.Sarah is also the co-author of Beyond the Razors Edge and has produced a YouTube informational video on self-injury. Her expertise has been featured in multiple magazine articles and on Good Morning America. 

It is my honor to be writing on behalf of Sarah Brecht and I am so excited for her to be starting a self-injury group for teens. I have been fortunate enough to observe her growth over the last few years, while managing some complex stressors. Sarah has walked a similar path as some of the adolescents and teens coming to her group, giving her not only credibility, but also deep empathy. Her scars from self-injury tell a story that she has worked hard to have power over and this is something she wants to share with her group—the ability to re-author your stories and to find coping skills that work for each individual. Sarah is kind and is a hard worker. She is creative with a sense of silliness and sarcasm that is relatable to teens. She cares for others and goes above and beyond to make those around her feel validated and supported. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge and giving back to teens in a way that is meaningful while also giving them tools to set them up for life. Safe Steps for Teens is a much needed service for the community and will provide a safe environment for those who struggle with self-injury to feel less alone and supported. 

Molly McDowell-Burns PhD, IMFT-S, LPCC-S, RPT, AAMFT Approved Supervisor

Sarah‘s non-judgmental and compassionate approach to recovery has helped me during some of the most difficult times in my life. I can truly say I wouldn’t be where or who I am without the skills, knowledge, and support she’s given me.

Tess, former group member