Creating Safe Spaces: The Role of Therapists in Mental Health Support

"We as poor people need help. We as whatever caveat comes your way, we need help because it's just a human response. We were made to ask for help. We were made to look for help, period. It's biblical and it's natural however way you want to look at it." - Breanne Ward

In this thought-provoking episode of the Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis engages in a compelling conversation with guest Breanne Ward, a respected mental health therapist, and advocate. Together, they explore the importance of creating safe spaces for mental health support, especially within marginalized communities. Breanne Ward passionately discusses the necessity of normalizing help-seeking behavior and shares her approach to making mental health therapy accessible and relatable.

Time Stamped Shownotes:

• [32:24] Breanne talks about the fear often associated with reaching out for help and the portrayal of this in various commercials.
• [32:53] Discussion on the need to normalize asking for help, especially among people of color and other marginalized communities.
• [33:38] A historical perspective on the treatment of marginalized communities in medical situations and how this impacts perceptions of mental health therapy.
• [34:38] Breanne shares her efforts to change perceptions about mental health treatment through platforms like Facebook.
• [35:07] A look into the life of a therapist - how Breanne balances her work and personal life.
• [36:15] Breanne discusses how she recharges and maintains her well-being, highlighting the importance of nature and physical activity.
• [37:15] The role of a supportive community and accountability partners in maintaining mental health.
• [39:56] Breanne mentions the therapist of color meetups she organizes to provide a safe space for people who might not have a supportive community.
• [41:30] Details on where to find and connect with Breanne.

About the Guest:
Owner of Forward Consulting LLC, Breanne Ward is a mental health therapist and advocate committed to making mental health support accessible, especially to marginalized communities. She is passionate about creating safe spaces where individuals can express their emotions freely, normalize help-seeking behavior, and work towards improved mental health.

Where to Connect:
To connect with Breanne Ward, find her at Forward Consulting LLC, located at 43rd and University in Des Moines, 4309 University Avenue. She is currently accepting new clients who wish to explore the benefits of therapy. Feel free to follow Forward Consulting LLC on Facebook and Linkedin. You can also find more about her work and services by Googling "Forward Consulting LLC" or "Breanne Ward".

Connect with Corey:
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