### Episode Title:

**Navigating Mental Health: Growth, Boundaries, and the Impact of COVID-19 with Sarah Coates**

### Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Sarah Coates, the founder and owner of 180 Counseling, to discuss the evolving landscape of mental health services. Sarah shares her journey from a school counselor to leading a thriving mental health practice with six locations and over a hundred therapists. We delve into the significant growth of her practice during COVID-19, the increasing demand for teen mental health services, and the critical role of boundaries in personal and professional life. Sarah also highlights the importance of in-person therapy, the impact of social media on mental health, and the potential future implications of AI in therapy.

### Key Points Discussed:

1. **Introduction and Background**:

- Sarah Coates' journey from a school counselor to founding 180 Counseling.

- The rapid growth of 180 Counseling, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

2. **Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health**:

- Increased demand for mental health services during the pandemic.

- Growth of 180 Counseling’s physical locations and the rise in the number of therapists.

3. **Teen Mental Health**:

- The surge in teen mental health issues post-COVID-19.

- The dual impact of social media as both a tool and a challenge for mental health.

4. **Importance of Boundaries**:

- Understanding and setting personal and professional boundaries.

- The significance of communicating boundaries effectively.

- Challenges faced by parents in setting boundaries for children, especially those struggling with addiction.

5. **In-Person vs. Telehealth Therapy**:

- The irreplaceable value of in-person therapy sessions.

- The role of telehealth during the pandemic and its limitations.

6. **Future of Mental Health Services**:

- Potential implications of AI in therapy.

- The importance of continuous professional and personal growth.

7. **Community and Collaboration**:

- The collaborative spirit among mental health professionals in the Triangle area.

- The value of referring clients to trusted colleagues for specialized care.

8. **Advice for Seeking Help**:

- How to find a therapist and the importance of community recommendations.

- Utilizing resources like Psychology Today and local practices like 180 Counseling.

### Guest Bio:

**Sarah Coates** is the founder and owner of 180 Counseling, a comprehensive mental health practice with multiple locations across North Carolina. With a background as a school counselor and extensive experience in private practice, Sarah has grown her company significantly, particularly during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. She is passionate about providing quality mental health services and is dedicated to helping individuals, families, and communities thrive.

### Resources Mentioned:

- [180 Counseling](https://180nc.com)

- [Psychology Today](https://www.psychologytoday.com)

### Links:

- Follow 180 Counseling on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/180Counseling) and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/180Counseling).

- Visit [Finding New Waters Podcast](https://findingnewwaters.com) for more episodes and updates.