We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle Hirschman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
How I Think About Risk – And the Role It’s Played in My Life and Career

Risk has never been something I’ve chased for thrill or status—but it has been a necessary companion on the journey of living and working in alignment with my values. For me, risk has often meant choosing heart over comfort, uncertainty over stability, and purpose over predictability.

Early in my career, I found myself walking the halls of Capitol Hill as a lobbyist alongside a Senator on issues I believed in and supporting new policies that were being written by NOW Legal Defense and Education Fund. But I quickly realized that my compassionate nature—so central to who I am—didn’t have a place in that environment. My heart was not only undervalued; it was dismissed. Within a year, I made what many might have seen as a “risky” decision: I stepped away from what others would call a dream career in politics and took a job as an outreach worker serving the homeless population on the East Coast.

It was one of the best decisions of my life.

That role opened my eyes to the deep systemic issues behind homelessness and addiction. It also showed me how quickly any of us—no matter our education, background, or intent—can find ourselves on the edge. That experience grounded me in a truth I’ve carried ever since: that the real risk isn’t in walking away from a prestigious path—it’s in ignoring your calling.

Since then, my career has been defined by similar leaps into the unknown. From launching addiction programs in Vietnam to starting an AA meeting in Ghana, to founding my own clinical and coaching practice in California, every step has required a level of uncertainty—and every step has been worth it.

Whether I was pioneering new programs, working in psychiatric units abroad, or building new models of sober coaching here at home, the role of risk has always been to invite growth. It asks me: Are you willing to move forward even when the outcome is uncertain, if it means staying true to who you are?

The answer, again and again, has been yes.

Taking these courageous steps has given me a life of meaning. It’s kept me connected to real people and real problems. It’s also led me to create the Creative Healing Podcast, where I interview healers from a wide range of modalities—energy workers, movement practitioners, spiritual guides, and more. My intention is to educate not only my clients, but also the broader public and medical professionals about the transformative potential of these adjunct services. So many people suffering from mental health issues, addiction, or chronic stress can benefit from healing paths that complement traditional treatment—and my hope is to shine a light on what’s possible.

That same drive to connect and create supportive spaces has inspired several of my current offerings. I now co-facilitate Nurturing Networking events for mental health professionals—spaces designed to build community, reduce burnout, and foster collaboration. I also lead Soulful Stride walking groups for the public, creating an opportunity for movement, mindfulness, and gentle conversation in nature. And through my Half Hour Haven meditations, I offer brief but powerful weekly grounding sessions to help people slow down, reconnect with themselves, and find peace amidst the busyness of daily life.

At the heart of it all, risk has been a guide—not a threat. It’s been the whisper reminding me to keep showing up authentically, even when the path is uncertain. It’s helped me live—and lead—with heart.

What should our readers know about your business?
Hirschman Clinical Services (HCS) is a coaching practice that offers action-oriented, integrative support to individuals facing complex mental health, eating disorder, addiction, and/or life transition challenges. What sets us apart is that we offer a team of master level clinicians providing coaching and we don’t just treat symptoms; we help people build meaningful lives by developing real-world life skills, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. We also offer creative healing assessments to help those struggling, find a treatment plan that works for them with reputable resources.

Clients often tell us that they feel seen, supported, and truly cared for—not just as patients, but as whole human beings.

Getting to where we are today has been anything but easy—and I wouldn’t change a thing. My journey started in policy work and non-profit outreach, and has evolved over the years into a diverse and deeply passionate path. Along the way, I’ve worked in treatment centers, psychiatric units, international programs, and community-based services, all of which shaped my understanding of what people really need to heal.

Starting my own business meant taking real risks, learning as I went, and staying true to my values, even when it would’ve been easier to follow a more conventional path. There were moments of burnout, doubt, and trial-and-error. But each challenge taught me something important—about boundaries, sustainability, and the power of staying heart-centered in all that I do.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that healing is not linear, and neither is running a business. Patience, flexibility, and integrity matter more than perfection. I’ve also learned that community is everything—having a network of like-minded professionals, supportive collaborators, and inspired clients has made all the difference.

Another key lesson: people don’t just want services—they want to feel safe, seen, and supported. That’s the heartbeat of our work at HCS. As much as our services is known for our action-oriented approach, it is important to meet each individual where they are at and at the pace they are comfortable in making changes they choose to make.

I want people to know that HCS is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and action. We are not here to give quick fixes—we’re here to walk with our clients through the challenging moments and teach them skills that can support them to . Our services are engaging, ethical, and designed to help people reconnect with themselves and enjoy life again.

The guiding quote we live by is: “Life is a journey, not a destination.” We’re honored to be a part of that journey for the people we serve.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting the LA area, I’d absolutely want to give them the kind of experience that captures the magic, diversity, and laid-back energy of the city—especially the coastline, which is hands-down my favorite part of LA.

We’d kick things off with a stay at a charming boutique hotel in Marina Del Rey—something close to the water so the ocean breeze is never far. First stop: coffee at The Cow’s End in Venice, a quirky local favorite that has the best coffee and all the locals enjoy. From there, we’d stroll down to Venice Beach, take in the eclectic mix of people, street performers, and art, and just soak up that vibrant Venice vibe.

For a bit of fun, we’d hop on scooters and ride down to the Santa Monica Pier for lunch at a seafood spot right on the water—fresh fish, beach views, and the sound of the waves. Afterward, we’d ride the Ferris wheel like tourists and laugh like kids. Depending on the mood, we might wander around the Third Street Promenade, explore some shops, catch a street performer or two, or grab a smoothie and people-watch.

By the end of the day, we’d wind down back in Marina Del Rey, feet in the sand or perched at a beachside restaurant, just in time to watch the sun set over the Pacific. It’s a perfect way to cap off the day—peaceful, beautiful, and uniquely LA.

Of course, over a full week, we’d mix in some hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains, a visit to the Getty Villa, and maybe even a sound bath in Malibu—but no matter what, the coastline would always be the anchor. There’s just something healing about being by the water, especially when sharing it with someone you love.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m incredibly grateful for the many people and communities who have supported, inspired, and walked alongside me throughout my journey. One of the most pivotal groups was the Promises team, where I worked over 25 years ago. That experience not only deepened my understanding of addiction recovery, but also planted the seed for what would later become my coaching business. Watching clients transition out of residential and outpatient care made me realize how vital ongoing support is—and I knew I wanted to be a part of that next chapter in their healing. The idea for My Sober Coach was born from that insight.

A special shoutout goes to Susanne Tarleton, who was one of my biggest cheerleaders during that time. Her encouragement and belief in my vision meant more than I can express—and gave me the confidence to carve out a new model of care.

I would also like to acknowledge Lee Ann Teaney and Stephanie Book Koehler, who have served as my supervisors, mentors, and trusted colleagues for over 25 years. I am profoundly grateful for the wealth of experience, strength, and hope they have so generously shared with me throughout our time working together.

Additionally, the Women’s Association for Addiction Recovery has been an invaluable network of professional women whose collective support, inspiration, and empowerment have significantly shaped my personal and professional growth.

And of course, there are so many more who have contributed to my business and its expansions over the years—through encouragement, referrals, collaboration, or simply believing in what I do. You know who you are—and I thank you deeply.

Success is never a solo journey, and I’m beyond grateful to be walking mine with such an incredible community.

Website: https://www.hirschmanclinicalservices.com

Instagram: @hirschmanclinicalservices

Linkedin: Michelle Hirschman

Facebook: Michelle Hirschman

Youtube: Hirschman Clinical Services

Other: Creative Healing Podcast (on apple/spotify)

https://angiemfisher.com/half-hour-haven/ (new launch; 30 min guided meditation starting 9/10/25)

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