Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Cierra Sellman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Cierra, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
Five years ago, I took a risk that ended up changing my entire life. At the time, it didn’t feel brave, it felt terrifying. My drinking had gotten so bad that I didn’t recognize myself anymore. My daughter had just turned four, and instead of being home to celebrate, I was in an inpatient treatment facility. I remember lying in bed that night wondering if she would ever understand why I wasn’t there, or if she’d ever forgive me.
When I left treatment, I thought that was it; I’d be done drinking for good. But it didn’t work out that way. I relapsed again and again. Each time, I told myself it would be different, and each time, I ended up right back in that dark place. I hated myself for it. I felt like I was failing as a mother, failing as a person. But deep down, I still wanted the life I knew was possible if I could just stay sober.
The truth is, I was scared. I thought life without alcohol would be boring and empty. Drinking had been my escape, my comfort, my identity for so long. But eventually, I hit a point where I couldn’t keep living like that. I decided to give recovery one last honest shot; no more half-measures, no more excuses.
The beginning was rough. I had to face my pain head-on, rebuild trust, and figure out who I was without alcohol. But little by little, life started to change. My daughter and I rebuilt our bond. Now she’s 10 years old, and we’re closer than ever. She knows her mom is present, dependable, and sober.
Looking back, I see that getting sober wasn’t just about putting down the drink; it was about believing I was worth saving. Today, I’m an Addictions Counselor, helping others take the same scary risk I once did. I’m breaking generational curses, showing my daughter that change is possible, and living proof that even if you fall down a hundred times, you can still get back up and win.
The biggest risk I ever took was betting on myself; and it turned out to be the best decision I have ever made.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My name is Cierra, but most people call me CiCi. I am an Addictions Counselor, a mom to a 10 year old daughter, and a woman who’s passionate about helping people transform their lives through recovery. My path into this field started with my own journey; I know what it’s like to feel trapped in addiction, to lose your sense of self, and to fight your way back.
In my role, I provide both group and individual counseling for people struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. My approach is not one size fits all; I meet clients where they are, helping them identify their own strengths, unpack the root causes of their struggles, and build the tools they need for lasting change. I also focus heavily on topics like trauma, boundaries, relapse prevention, self-esteem, and healthy coping skills because recovery is about so much more than just stopping the substance; it’s about rebuilding your whole life.
What makes my work unique is the way I connect with people. I don’t just talk at clients; I listen deeply. I’m not afraid to be real, to share pieces of my own story when it’s helpful, and to create a space where clients feel safe enough to be honest. I think that’s why people open up to me; they can tell I understand.
I’m most proud of the life I’ve built for myself and my daughter. I grew up seeing cycles of addiction and hardship, and I’m determined to break those patterns; not just in my own family, but in the lives of others.
If there’s one thing I want people to know about me and my work, it’s this; I believe in second chances. I believe people can change, even when it feels like they’ve tried and failed a hundred times. My job isn’t just about counseling; it’s about walking beside people as they rediscover hope, self-worth, and the belief that a better life is possible.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
A story that shows my resilience is what happened after my first stay in inpatient treatment. I thought I would never drink again, but I relapsed multiple times. Instead of giving up, I moved into an all women’s sober living house; my daughter couldn’t live with me there, but I had her several days a week. I got a sponsor, worked the 12 steps, and took a service position. Over time, I became the house manager, which gave me purpose and responsibility.
While living in sober living, my old counselor asked me to share my story with the women at an inpatient facility. As I walked out, I said, “I wish I worked here”. She told me to submit my resume, and I was hired as a behavioral tech. Four years later, I have grown into different positions and now work as an Addictions Counselor.
That journey taught me that resilience isn’t about never falling; it’s about getting back up, doing the work, and believing you can create a life you’re proud of.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
One lesson I had to unlearn was that asking for help is a weakness. I used to think I had to handle everything on my own, but in recovery I learned it takes a village. Leaning on my sponsor, therapist, counselors, and peers showed me that accepting support is actually a strength.
Now, as an Addictions Counselor, I help others see that leaning on others is a key part of healing and growth.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: Cierra Sellman
Image Credits
Dionta Wallace