Grace & Grit Recovery

Holistic Recovery Support for Professionals & Families

Recovery is a journey of transformation with compassionate support

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You don't have to do this alone

Recovery is possible, and it starts with compassionate and supportive guidance from someone who understands the journey firsthand.

As a Certified Recovery Specialist with 39 years of continuous sobriety, I help individuals and families navigate the complexities of substance abuse and addiction, mental health challenges, and disordered eating recovery through personalized, holistic support.

39+
Years of Sobriety
100%
Personalized Support
LA & NY
Serving Both Coasts
Carol Ester - Certified Recovery Specialist

Meet Carol Ester

Certified Recovery Specialist

My journey of 39 years continuous sobriety and five years of abstinence from disordered eating gives me profound insight into the challenges of recovery. I understand because I've lived it.

Beyond my personal recovery, I successfully navigated the complexities of running a multimillion-dollar business while raising two children with individual challenges. These experiences shaped my approach with resiliency, compassion, and deeply practical ideas and values.

I believe in meeting people exactly where they are, supporting them discovering their own unique path to recovery. There's no one-size-fits-all solution—recovery is as individual as you are.

Empathy

Understanding through lived experience

Collaboration

Working together on your journey

Solution-Oriented

Focused on possibilities, not problems

Why This Matters

Professionals and families face unique recovery challenges, including privacy concerns, demanding schedules, high-pressure environments, and the need to maintain a public persona.

The Environmental Recovery Approach

Sustainable recovery through holistic, mind-body-spirit connection

🧘

Mindfulness & Meditation

Developing a consistent meditation practice that creates inner calm and self-awareness

🌿

Holistic Wellness

Easy, healthy eating combined with gentle movement—hiking, walking, and Feldenkrais breathing techniques

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Creative Expression

Discovering creativity as a pathway to healing and self-discovery

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Nurturing Spaces

Creating personal environments at home that support your recovery journey

🤝

Support Systems

Building both internal resilience and external networks of support

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Connection & Service

Animal care and advocacy as tools for ongoing healing and purpose

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Executive Recovery Support

Specialized support for professionals balancing high-pressure careers with recovery, maintaining discretion and effectiveness.

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Transition & Aftercare Planning

Strategic planning for sustainable recovery, from treatment facility transitions to long-term lifestyle integration.

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Relapse Prevention Strategies

Proactive planning and support to identify triggers, build resilience, and maintain lasting sobriety.

"Recovery is about creating an environment where health and healing can flourish. Sustainable recovery emerges from a holistic 'environmental' approach with a full spectrum of solutions. It's about creating internal and external support systems that nurture healing at every level—mind, body, and spirit."

— Carol Ester

How I Can Support You

Personalized recovery services tailored to your unique journey

Individual Recovery Support

One-on-one guidance, mentoring, and advocacy for those navigating addiction recovery and mental health challenges

  • Personalized recovery planning
  • Weekly support sessions
  • Crisis support between sessions
  • Resource navigation and advocacy
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Family Support & Guidance

Support for families navigating the complexities of a loved one's addiction or mental health challenges

  • Family dynamics assessment
  • Communication strategies
  • Boundary-setting support
  • Co-recovery guidance
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Eating Disorder Support

Specialized support for those struggling with body image issues and disordered eating patterns

  • Body image work
  • Intuitive eating principles
  • Emotional regulation techniques
  • Self-compassion development
Learn More →

Virtual & In-Person Sessions

Available for clients in Los Angeles and New York, with virtual sessions for those outside these areas

Flexible Scheduling

Sessions scheduled to accommodate your life and responsibilities

Confidential Support

All sessions are completely confidential and conducted in a safe, non-judgmental space

Words from Those I've Supported

"Carol's understanding comes from a place of genuine experience. She doesn't just know recovery—she lives it every day. That authenticity made all the difference in my journey."

— J.M.

Los Angeles

"The holistic approach Carol takes helped me see recovery as more than just abstinence. It's about building a whole life worth living."

— S.R.

New York

"Carol helped our family understand addiction in a way that brought us closer together instead of tearing us apart. Her guidance was invaluable."

— Family of K.T.

California

Recovery Resources

Helpful tools and information to support your journey

Crisis Support

Support Groups

Educational Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect in our first session?

Our initial session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and for you to share your story without judgment. We'll discuss your goals, challenges, and what kind of support would be most helpful for you. There's no pressure—this is your time to explore whether we're a good fit for working together.

Are you a therapist or counselor?

I'm a Certified Recovery Specialist, not a licensed therapist or medical professional. I provide recovery support, guidance, mentoring, and advocacy based on my lived experience and training. Many clients work with me alongside their therapist or treatment team, and I'm happy to collaborate with other professionals supporting your recovery.

Do you work with families?

Yes! I provide support for both individuals in recovery and their families. Family dynamics play a crucial role in recovery, and I can help families understand addiction, set healthy boundaries, and support their loved ones effectively.

What if I'm not ready to commit to full recovery?

I meet people wherever they are in their journey. You don't have to have all the answers or be "ready" to reach out. Sometimes the first step is simply having a conversation about what recovery might look like for you.

How long do people typically work with you?

This varies greatly depending on individual needs and goals. Some clients work with me for a few months during a transition period, while others find ongoing support beneficial for maintaining long-term recovery. We'll discuss what makes sense for you.

What are your rates?

I offer different service packages depending on your needs. Please contact me to discuss your situation and I'll provide detailed information about rates and payment options. I never want cost to be a barrier to getting help, so let's have a conversation.

Ready to Begin?

Take the first step toward transformative recovery. Reach out today for a free consultation.

Get in Touch

Email

carolester90265@gmail.com

Phone

310-351-7712

Locations

Los Angeles, CA | New York, NY

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All inquiries are completely confidential. I typically respond within 24 hours.

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