Early in the TFAL podcast journey we discussed therapy and mental health in Episode 2. As time has progressed the TFAL community has asked to continue the discussion around mental health. In this episode the TFAL crew has a conversation with Alyssa Lia Mancao, a therapist based out of Sherman Oaks, CA, who also goes by Lia. She specializes in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and Inner Child healing.

When quarantine began the concern over the physical toll of quarantine was not the only health crisis that was addressed. Mental health became a major concern for many due to  the increase of isolation. The CDC posted these guidelines on how to manage stress and anxiety under quarantine. The TFAL crew and Lia discuss her journey from a social worker in the justice system to her own private practice. Lia shares how therapy practices have changed because of the global pandemic and offers coping strategies like ‘Name it to tame it’ as a way of handling stress and anxiety. The conversation also delves into how mental health can manifest physically through somatic symptoms. 

Lastly, at the time of the recording several actions were taking place across the country in response to the murder of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless Black Americans. The TFAL crew and Lia briefly discuss ways to participate in the Black Lives Matter movement and how to be allies in our communities. More info on Lia’s personal practice can be found here: Alyssa Marie Wellness. Follow Lia on instagram: @alyssamariewellness

Listen through the embedded player below, download directly here or subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts here. For Folks who are on Spotify, you can take a listen to us here.

What has your mental health journey been like during quarantine? What coping mechanisms have worked for you? Let us know by emailing us at thisfilipinoamericanlife@gmail.com or leave us a voicemail at (805) 394-TFAL.