Mindful Connections: Empowering Marginalized Communities in Therapy

In this captivating episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, our host delves into an enlightening discussion with Kayla Bell-Consolver, a dedicated therapist and advocate for mental health. Kayla passionately discusses her approach to therapy, which emphasizes authenticity and a deep connection with her clients, focusing particularly on black, indigenous, and LGBTQ communities. She also shares valuable insights on the importance of recognizing early life influences on mental health and how our past can continue to impact us as adults. Join us as we explore the transformative power of therapy and the steps toward mental health awareness and intervention.

Show Notes:

0:00 - Introduction of Kayla Bell-Consolver and initial thoughts on mental health.

1:00 - Kayla discusses how thinking about the negative can often lead to anxiety and how she helps her clients through these situations.

2:22 - Kayla emphasizes the importance of being an ally and supporting those going through mental health struggles.

4:11 - Discussion about QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) training and how they equip individuals to handle conversations about suicide prevention.

7:40 - The significance of recognizing and understanding the warning signs of mental health issues.

9:56 - Kayla expresses her views about the myths surrounding mental health and the importance of opening up conversations about it.

11:40 - How to respond and provide non-judgemental support when someone opens up about their mental health struggles.

14:10 - Kayla talks about the new suicide hotline number and the resources available for immediate help.

16:56 - The discussion shifts to breaking stereotypes about how therapists should look and the importance of authenticity in her practice.

21:26 - Kayla reflects on the populations she primarily works with and why it's crucial for her to connect with her clients genuinely.

26:56 - The conversation wraps up with Kayla's thoughts on what she hopes to bring to the upcoming panel discussion.

Quote from the episode: "You need to feel seen, connected, and heard. You can't just verbally state it. So for me, I much rather show up in what I feel good because I think it's more important that we show up, so we can create those spaces and be more authentic." - Kayla Bell-Consolver

About the Guest:

Kayla Bell-Consolver is the Director of Drake Student Counseling Center and an innovative therapist passionately dedicated to empowering individuals through transformative therapy sessions. She prides herself on serving predominantly black, indigenous, and LGBTQ communities, fostering a therapeutic environment where her clients can genuinely connect, and feel seen, and heard. Kayla champions authenticity in her practice, breaking away from stereotypes and encouraging her clients to embrace their unique identities. Her commitment extends beyond individual therapy sessions as she advocates for mental health awareness in the wider community, promoting education and intervention through QPR training.

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