In recognition of World Mental Health Day, LifeStance Health is proud to present a special panel discussion featuring our team of experienced clinicians. Our experts dive into important topics such as reducing mental health stigma, overcoming barriers to care, and the role telehealth plays in expanding access to services.

We also explore the impact of mental health across different populations and share practical self-care tips that everyone can apply to maintain mental wellness.

Moderator: Nicholette Leanza – Therapist (Independence, OH)

Our panelists include:

• Sabrena A. Ness, MS, LPC – Regional Clinical Director/Clinical Counselor (Windsor, CO)

Key Topics Covered:

• The importance of World Mental Health Day and LifeStance’s mission

Learn how LifeStance is making mental health care more accessible and how you can prioritize your mental wellness!

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As we recognize ADHD Awareness Month, LifeStance provider Lisa Dejarnette shares her insights into the challenges faced by those with ADHD, clarifying common myths and misconceptions. With over 30 years of experience and a personal connection to the disorder, Lisa explains the different types of ADHD and emphasizes the importance of proper diagnosis and community support.

She highlights how ADHD affects daily life and self-esteem, encouraging understanding and acceptance from loved ones. We explore the necessity for accurate resources and tailored treatments while celebrating the strengths of individuals with ADHD.

Learn more about ADHD

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On this episode, Nicholette discusses the sensitive topic of losing a loved one to suicide with LifeStance Therapist Amber Hulgan. Amber shares insights on key risk factors and warning signs, dispels common myths such as the belief that discussing suicide plants the idea, and emphasizes the importance of open conversations.

She discusses her personal experience of losing her mother to suicide and offers advice on coping strategies, including the use of support groups and therapy.

We highlight effective prevention strategies and resources such as the 988 national helpline. 

Learn more about a Safety Plan for Suicide Ideation

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In this episode, we discuss the holistic approaches to understanding and managing depression with LifeStance therapist, Dr. Natalie Grandy.

Dr. Grandy covers the definitions and types of depression, common myths and misconceptions, and practical coping strategies. She highlight the significance of physiological basics such as sleep, diet, exercise, and social connections, as well as the role of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in managing depressive symptoms. 

Learn more about Depression

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LifeStance therapist Taylor Buss shares her extensive experience working with pediatric and young adult cancer patients and offers valuable advice on managing initial emotional reactions, handling information overload, disclosing a diagnosis, and coping with end-of-life decisions.

Key takeaways include the importance of having a support system, seeking mental health support, and being gentle with oneself throughout the cancer journey.

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September is National Recovery Month. LifeStance therapist J. “Andrew” Dewey, joins us and courageously shares his personal story of addiction and recovery. He discusses his journey through detox, homelessness, and his transformative experience with therapy and Smart Recovery. Andrew also emphasizes the importance of self-worth, the impact of supportive individuals, and the need for comprehensive addiction programs.

His story highlights the stigmas associated with addiction and homelessness and advocates for treating people with dignity and support. Through his own experiences, Andrew now helps others in their recovery journey as a licensed professional counselor.

Learn more about Addiction Treatments and Services

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In this episode, Nicholette interviews therapist Kellie Boyle about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Kellie shares her journey towards specializing in EMDR, explaining the science behind how it helps in processing traumatic memories and other mental health issues.

She discusses the eight phases of EMDR therapy, its effectiveness in treating conditions like trauma, anxiety, depression, and more, and highlights the benefits of this therapeutic approach compared to traditional forms of therapy. 

Learn more about EMDR Therapy

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In this episode, Nicholette interviews McKenze Rogers, LifeStance Health's Marketing Integrations Manager, who shares her recovery journey from an eating disorder while being a student athlete. McKenze emphasizes on the prevalence of eating disorders among college athletes. She also recounts her experiences as a Division I Champion Diver at Stanford, sharing the intense and unforgettable moments, distinctions achieved, and the impact of a pivotal conversation with a Chinese diving coach at the age of 12.

McKenze explains how her eating disorder intensified after retiring from athletics and the significant moment that led her to seek help. She emphasizes the vital role of group and individual therapy, nutritional counseling, and supportive literature in her recovery. 

Read more on McKenze's story by visiting this blog. 

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As we enter the Back to School season, Regional Clinical Director, Aimee McWilliams joins us to discuss the challenges students face when transitioning from high school to college. Amy shares valuable insights into managing the emotional, social, and academic hurdles that arise during this critical time.

From addressing grief over leaving high school behind to navigating new social dynamics and building effective coping strategies, Aimee offers practical tips to help students prepare for a successful college experience.

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Join clinicians Nicholette Leanza and Kara Engebretson as they explore practical personal development tools to enhance self-care and well-being. This episode delves into specific books, podcasts, and resources that can help individuals develop effective self-care practices.

Kara emphasizes the importance of a morning routine, highlighting impactful reads like "Miracle Morning" by Hal Elrod and "Change Your Story, Change Your Life" by Kindra Hall.

She also recommends podcasts such as The Ed Mylett Show and the Quote of the Day, along with the GrowthDay app by Brendan Burchard for daily inspiration and practical tools.

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