From the Gridiron to Greater Healing: Dr. Steve Sanders’ Mission to Transform Mental Health Care

From the Gridiron to Greater Healing: Dr. Steve Sanders’ Mission to Transform Mental Health Care

Dr. Steve Sanders has always been driven by purpose—first on the football field, and now in the field of mental wellness. A former NFL player turned healthcare entrepreneur, Dr. Sanders has seamlessly transitioned from running plays to running operations as the Chief of Operations at Inner Community Health, the mental health practice he co-founded with his wife, Dr. Mirica “Mimi” Sanders, star of Bravo’s Married to Medicine.

His passion for mental wellness was ignited long before founding the practice. After retiring from professional football, Dr. Sanders authored Training Camp For Life and launched a Leadership and Character Development Curriculum that mentored athletes at every level. “The same discipline that made me successful in sports,” he shares, “became the foundation for mentoring and mental transformation.” His program not only guided players through high-stakes competition but prepared them for life beyond the game.

steve sanders photo
steve sanders photo

Today, that mentorship continues through a new lens. As Chief of Operations, Dr. Sanders manages the strategic and operational growth of their mental health clinics—ensuring quality, accessibility, and sustainability. When asked what motivates his work, he explains, “There’s a mental health crisis in our communities—especially among minorities. I couldn’t stand on the sidelines. I had to be part of the solution.”

Dr. Sanders and Dr. Mimi have an ambitious goal: to open five mental health clinics across Georgia and eventually expand nationwide. Their united vision is grounded in holistic wellness and removing the stigma around mental health, particularly in underserved communities. “We want people to know that mental strength is just as important as physical strength,” Dr. Sanders emphasizes. “Everyone deserves access to healing.”

From author and athlete to advocate and entrepreneur, Dr. Sanders continues to inspire others to lead lives rooted in resilience, purpose, and wellness.


About Dr. Steve Sanders

Dr. Steve Sanders is a former NFL athlete, author, and co-founder of Inner Community Health, a leading mental health practice based in Georgia. With his wife, Dr. Mirica “Mimi” Sanders, he is transforming access to mental health care through holistic services and community outreach. Author of Training Camp For Life, Dr. Sanders created a mentorship program for athletes focused on character and leadership development. As Chief of Operations, he plays a pivotal role in expanding mental health services across Georgia with a vision for nationwide impact—especially in underserved communities.