Episode 103: Breaking Barriers: Addressing Ableism in Mental Health and Advocating for Change [featuring Janelle Johnson]

I just had an amazing session on my podcast, the All Things Private Practice Podcast, with the incredible Janelle Johnson, a licensed therapist and founder of Bridges Family Life Center. And let me tell you, the insights we discussed were mind-blowing! Janelle opened up about their journey in the mental health field, focusing on her own neurodivergence struggles, challenging her own internalized ableism, and advocating for equity in education. We dove deep into the role of therapists in addressing ableism and dismantling the problematic aspects of the mental health system. Are we just bandaging or truly understanding the root causes of struggles? We delved into the experiences of marginalized communities, the importance of cultural sensitivity, and the power of relationships in healing trauma. And we even talked entrepreneurship and innovation! So, get ready to unpack and unlearn the complexities surrounding mental health. This conversation will challenge your perspectives and empower you to make a positive impact in the world! Reasons to listen: 1. Understand about Internalized Ableism: Many mental health professionals may struggle with their own internalized ableism, consciously or unconsciously perpetuating harmful beliefs and practices. 2. Learn about Systemic Analysis: It is crucial for therapists to understand that mental health struggles are not isolated issues; they are often intertwined with social, economic, and institutional factors. 3. Hear Patrick and Janelle talk about their own journeys with Autism & ADHD diagnoses, and how they've had to do a lot of deep, introspective work to help unpack their own stigmas and beliefs. 4. Identify the disconnect between Mental Health Practice and Social Issues: The mental health field often focuses on individual struggles without adequately acknowledging the systemic and social factors that contribute to mental health challenges. This episode delves into the intersectionality of mental health, disability, and social issues such as racism, trauma, and economic challenges. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast 🎙️Spotify 🎙️Apple 🎙️YouTube Music ▶️ YouTube ✈️ Learn about Retreats 🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community 🗨️ Join the free All Things Private Practice FB Community ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad & Heard! ✨ The Receptionist for iPad: I want to thank The Receptionist for iPad for sponsoring this episode. The Receptionist offers an iPad list check-in option where clients can scan a QR code to check in, which negates the need for you to buy an iPad and stand. Go to thereceptionist.com/privatepractice and sign up for a free 14-day trial. When you do, you'll get your first month free. And don't forget to ask about our iPad list check-in option. ✨ Heard: I want to thank Heard for sponsoring this episode. Doing your own accounting as a self-employed therapist is stressful. I get it because I've been there. When I first started my private practice, I wasn't sure how much to save for taxes or how quarterly taxes worked. I didn't want to fuck up and get in trouble with the IRS. That's why I'm so glad I found Heard, the financial back office for therapists. Through easy-to-use software and awesome support, they help therapists manage their bookkeeping, taxes, payroll, and more, with affordable monthly and annual plans. They even help therapists set up a bank account, form a business entity, and open a retirement plan. Schedule a free consultation today at joinheard.com/atpp and use code ATPP at checkout, to get your first month for free.