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Hakikat specializes in offering therapeutic support to a diverse clientele, ranging from children to adults. Her areas of expertise include addressing a broad spectrum of mental health concerns, such as depression, suicidal ideation, anger management, anxiety, grief, trauma, and attachment. She approaches her work through a trauma-informed lens and prioritizes cultural considerations in her interactions with children and families.
Having gained extensive experience with clients from various backgrounds, Hakikat adeptly navigates the behavioral and emotional challenges faced by individuals at different developmental stages. A core aspect of her therapeutic approach involves a strong focus on utilizing clients' strengths as valuable tools for managing their mental and emotional struggles. Hakikat believes that individuals do not have to face their challenges alone. Her goal is to build upon the innate strengths of clients while collaboratively evaluating current stressors, reflecting on past experiences, and guiding clients toward a healthier and more fulfilling future.
Amanda has been in the field of counseling and mental health since 2006, with over a decade of experience ranging from a Bachelors in Community Studies to her Masters in Counseling Psychology. Amanda is a LMFT, licensed in California and Oregon. She is abi-racial therapist, the owner of Yes To Therapy, which employees diverse clinicians with over 12 languages spoken across the team. Amanda is trained and certified in Internal Family Systems and Brainspotting. On Amanda's time off, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three huskies.
"The Intersection of Faith and Mental Health" is an engaging presentation that dives into the complex and nuanced relationship between faith, religion, and mental well-being. This presentation addresses several critical topics that highlight the impact of faith on mental health and encourages participants to reflect on their beliefs and biases. The presentation begins by creating a safe space for dialogue on this important, yet touchy subject. We will be shedding light on the concept of religious trauma, showcasing how religious beliefs and experiences can profoundly affect an individual's mental health. Real-life case studies and examples provide insights into the sources and consequences of religious trauma. Moving from challenges to solutions, participants will also learn and explore the positive aspects of faith and religion in mental health. We highlight how spirituality and religious practices can serve as effective coping mechanisms, offering comfort and resilience in times of emotional distress.
In our presentation, we recognize that faith is a deeply personal and multifaceted concept. We will examine the diverse ways individuals define and experience faith, emphasizing that it can manifest innumerous forms, from organized religion to personal spirituality.
Most importantly, we aim for participants to leave with an understanding of the need for inclusive and culturally sensitive mental health support. We will discuss strategies for establishing therapeutic spaces that cater to the needs of faith-based communities. These approaches aim to promote mental health and well-being within diverse religious contexts.
The presentation concludes with a participatory activity, inviting attendees to engage in self-reflection. This introspective exercise encourages participants to explore their own biases and beliefs about the intersection of faith and mental health. It fosters empathy, self-awareness, and open dialogue, promoting a more informed and empathetic perspective on this critical intersection.
Throughout this presentation, participants gain a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between faith and mental health. They explore the challenges and benefits that faith can bring, and the significance of creating supportive and inclusive spaces for individuals from diverse faith backgrounds. Moreover, the self-reflection activity encourages attendees to better comprehend their own perspectives and biases, fostering empathy and dialogue. We hope our workshop better equips clinicians and therapists to work with differing faith-based communities.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
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