Lora Meyers, LISW

12/03/2025

This weekend, we lost one of our unhoused neighbors to the cold in downtown Toledo. He was among our most vulnerable residents.

We know this sparks frustration and anger at systems, at circumstances, at the lack of resources. Those feelings are valid. Let’s turn them into action:

-Advocate for stronger social services and housing solutions.
-Share resources that save lives in extreme weather.
-Support organizations working on the front lines.

No one should have to be outside in these conditions. Let’s care for each other, speak up for change, and keep compassion at the center of our work.

11/24/2025

🛑 STOP THE PANIC. START THE STRATEGY. 🛑

I’ve seen a lot of fear circulating about the new student loan laws and the elimination of Grad PLUS loans. I’ve looked into this extensively, and I have a different opinion. We need to take a breath and look at the math, because the reality is actually a wake-up call our profession needed.

Here is the hard truth:

1. ✨YOUR LICENSE IS SAFE. ✨
The new legislation (OBBBA) affects one thing only: the amount of federal debt you can take on. It does not touch your licensure. It does not touch your scope of practice. It does not touch insurance reimbursement. If you are already licensed, nothing changes for you.

2. THE "BLANK CHECK" IS OVER (AND THAT MIGHT BE GOOD).

For years, the government wrote blank checks (Grad PLUS loans) allowing universities to charge astronomical tuition because students could "just borrow it."

• The Reality: The new cap for us is $20,500 per year.
• The Comparison: At public universities like UT or BGSU, grad tuition is about $15,000/year. You can still afford this degree under the new limits.
• The Problem: Private schools charge $45,000+ per year for the same degree.

We have been borrowing $100k+ for degrees that pay $50k. That was never sustainable. This legislation forces private colleges to either lower their costs to match public options or explain why they are charging medical school prices for social work degrees.

3. THE REAL FIGHT IS PAY PARITY. 💵💵💵
The new law gives "Professional" degrees (Doctors/Lawyers) higher loan caps ($50k/year) because they have higher earning potential.

🤑💰Instead of fighting for the right to borrow more money, we should be fighting for the right to earn more money.💰🤑

THE BOTTOM LINE:

This is a market correction. It is going to stop the predatory cycle of high-tuition/low-wage degrees.

• To current students: Choose the affordable public program. The education is excellent, and your future self will thank you for not drowning in six-figure debt.

• To the profession: Stop advocating for more loans. Start advocating for reimbursement rates that reflect our value. We don't need more debt; we need more pay.

Let’s stop panicking and start making smart financial choices. 💪💰🧠

11/18/2025

Human trafficking is the second-largest criminal industry in the world, generating over $236 billion a year.

And the most devastating truth?

The average age of entry into s*x trafficking is just 12–15 years old.

No child, teen, or adult should ever carry this alone.

Survivors deserve more than awareness.
They deserve accountability for perpetrators, systems that protect, and comprehensive support: therapy, safe housing, education, and real opportunities to reclaim their lives.

We must support the long, nonlinear path of healing:

✨ Stand with survivors as they reclaim voice, safety, and life.
✨ Challenge any system that minimizes, hides, or protects abuse.
✨ Ensure survivors receive justice and the long-term, expert, compassionate support they need.

This moment is heavy, but it is also profoundly important.

💥Exploitation thrives in silence.
🕯️And silence shatters when truth reaches the light.

💞 If This News Is Impacting You:

If this news brings up old wounds, fear, anger, or grief, please know: your body remembers what the world prefers to forget.
• You are not alone.
• Your truth matters.
• You deserve safety, to be heard, and care that honors every part of your story.

I am here. For survivors. For truth. For the quiet revolution of reclaiming what was taken.

Please share this post if you believe in greater accountability and support for survivors.

07/20/2025

🩷 I Carry Narcan — Because Every Life Matters. 🩷

I believe harm reduction is part of healing. That’s why I now keep Narcan (naloxone) on-site — a life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose.

I hope I never have to use it.

But if the moment comes, I’ll be ready. And I want you to be, too.

✨ Here’s how you can get Narcan free in Ohio:

• Visit https://harmreductionohio.org/get-naloxone to have it discreetly mailed to your home.
• Most local pharmacies offer it without a prescription — just ask at the counter.
• Your county health department or syringe exchange program may also provide it for free.

This isn’t about judgment. It’s about safety, dignity, and meeting people where they are.

Whether you’re a loved one, a clinician, a community member, or in recovery yourself — Narcan saves lives. And everyone deserves a second chance.

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06/23/2025

06/17/2025

Heart full! 💕 Thank you for trusting me. My client waitlist is currently full.

If you're seeking support, I recommend Inspiring Wellness in Maumee or Psychology Today's therapist directory.

Thank you for understanding, and for allowing me to be part of your healing. Keep prioritizing your well-being – you absolutely deserve it! 💖

06/13/2025

Did you know that getting our kids outdoors isn't just fun, it's fantastic for their mental well-being too? 🌳☀️ Connecting with nature offers incredible benefits for children's mental health, like reducing stress and anxiety, improving focus, and boosting creativity!

Let's encourage more outdoor adventures and watch our kids thrive. What are your favorite ways to connect with nature with your little ones? Share in the comments! 👇

06/05/2025

June is Men's Mental Health Month, and I’m here to say: your feelings matter. It takes immense strength to acknowledge challenges, and even more to reach out. This month, and every month, let's empower men to openly discuss their mental well-being without judgment. You are not alone. ❤️

11/05/2024

🌲✨ Forest Bathing ✨🌲

This afternoon is expected to have record highs.

Leave your gadgets behind and enter a realm of serenity! Immerse yourself in the delightful fragrances of the forest.

Take a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and appreciate the stunning surroundings.

Marvel at the sunlight shimmering through the leaves or observe a bird gracefully hopping from branch to branch. Engage in the practice of forest bathing—a mindful approach that encourages you to be present, open, and connected to the beauty of the natural world.

Allow the forest to calm your mind and revitalize your spirit. Nature has a profound impact on mental health, helping to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and foster a sense of peace. Release stress and embrace a deep sense of well-being. 🍃💚🌞

10/29/2024

Have you heard of earthing? It's a simple practice that connects you with nature and offers amazing mental health benefits! By walking barefoot on grass, soil, or sand, you can reduce stress, improve your mood, enhance sleep quality, and boost mental clarity. Plus, it's a great way to practice mindfulness and appreciate the world around you.

To get started, find a natural surface, remove your shoes, and spend 15-30 minutes each day grounding yourself. Focus on what you hear, see, and feel. 🌍💚