NERC Employee Spotlight: Sarah Survell

When Sarah Survell was looking for an internship to complete her master’s degree, she connected with the New England Recovery Center (NERC) after hearing strong recommendations.

She reached out only to serendipitously discover that one of her professors at Fitchburg State was already part of the organization. It was meant to be.

Today, Sarah serves as Clinical Supervisor at NERC’s Acute Treatment Services (ATS). Her path, from intern to clinician to leadership, has unfolded alongside her own addiction recovery journey.

Leading with Lived Experience

Sarah’s decision to enter the field of substance misuse treatment was deeply personal. With personal and family experience in recovery, she was drawn to a space where she could connect her professional goals with something more meaningful.

While she approaches sharing her recovery journey thoughtfully, she recognizes the impact it can have in breaking down stigma and reshaping assumptions about what addiction recovery looks like.

“Sometimes people are surprised,” said Survell. “And that opens the door to a bigger conversation. Why is that surprising?”

That perspective allows Sarah to meet clients where they are as someone who understands the complexity of rebuilding.

Creating Space for Change

Since joining NERC, Sarah has steadily grown within the organization, moving from intern to clinician, then lead clinician, and now clinical supervisor.

In her current role, she supports clients and staff, helping guide the clinical environment while creating space for people to heal and begin again.

For Sarah, part of that work involves showing clients what’s possible.

“I went from early recovery, not knowing if I’d even finish my master’s program, to being in a leadership role,” said Sarah. “That can give people hope, especially when they’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed.”

The Moments That Matter Most

While milestones and long-term success stories are meaningful, Sarah finds the greatest reward in the smaller, day-to-day moments that signal transformative change.

She recalls seeing clients begin to relax into themselves, connecting with peers, and realizing they can feel comfortable without substance misuse.

“They start to see that they can just be themselves,” said Survell. “That no one is judging them, and that they can actually enjoy being present.”

It’s also meaningful to see former clients return, whether to share their progress or even to work alongside staff.

“Seeing someone who was once struggling come back in a completely different place is incredible,” said Sarah. “Those wins really stay with you.”

A Person-Centered Approach

One of the aspects Sarah values most about NERC is its commitment to individualized care.

Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model, the team works to understand each client’s unique circumstances, whether that involves coordinating outpatient care or building a plan that fits around daily responsibilities.

“Everyone’s situation is different,” said Survell. “We’re able to meet people where they are and help them build something that works for them.”

That flexibility helps clients leave treatment with practical, realistic next steps, essential to long-term progress.

Taking the First Step

For individuals considering treatment, Sarah emphasizes keeping an open mind.

“There’s nothing to lose by coming to treatment,” said Sarah. “Everyone here is rooting for you. No one is here to judge. You’re here to be supported.”

For those supporting a loved one, she said, “Just continue to show that you care. Even small reminders that someone is loved and not alone can make a huge difference.”

In a space where self-esteem can easily be worn down, those messages can carry real weight.

Building Hope Every Day

Sarah’s work helps people see beyond where they are right now, reinforcing that addiction recovery can lead to a life that feels stable and fulfilling. She lives this belief every day. And for her clients, that makes all the difference.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction or co-occurring disorders, call the New England Recovery Center today at 1-877-MyRehab.