Monday, April 25, 2016

Apps & Online Tools (Mental Health Version!)



Our cell phones and computers have become almost a part of us. One might even state "these technologies are an extension of the self." As these technologies are such an integral part of our lives, why not utilize these up to their utmost potential. We will be sharing a few of our favorite apps and website which can be used for a more healthful daily life.



Selfspective Mood Tracking: this app allows one to track moods at various times of the day. It has the potential to make one more self-aware of their emotional states. These emotional states can be linked to contexts in the app and tracked over time to give one a grander picture of the emotional states over time.


Calm: Meditate, relax, breathe & enjoy simple guided mindfulness stress reduction: this app allows one to meditate and relax in a few different ways; the app has three guided program options in which one can choose based on relaxation styles. The app can guide the meditation sessions one chooses to participate in on their own. Adding a meditation routine can aid in reducing stress and inducing calmness.


Zenify - Meditation and Mindfulness Training Techniques for peace of mind, stress relief and focus: this app provides short mindfulness tasks, these tasks allow one to tune in and become more conscious of everyday tasks with these short assignments delivered via the app. These mindfulness practices allow for less stress, calmness and overall relaxation.


MoodKit - Mood Improvement Tools: this app has hundreds of mood improvement activities, this app also tailors activities based on one’s desires, it also has a journal and mood logging option, one may also add reminders. This app also has a vast customizable option and a whole host of other options for a variety of different needs for overall better mental health.

CounselChat.com: this website is a great tool for anyone who may have a question they would like answered by professionals in the mental health field. This website also allows for individuals to seek therapists in their local areas. The website provides answers to questions that many people may have but have not received answers to from professionals.

We hope you find these applications and website useful for a more (mental) healthful daily life! 

Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Introductions


 Hello! and welcome to our blog! 
In order to lead a joyful life, we must come to the understanding that life is a journey that will take us along many different paths at different points in our life. As human beings if we come to the understanding that we will always be evolving; becoming our best self means that we are open to evolving and renewing ourself based on our present moment. Becoming our best self is to be mindful and present and one with our evolving needs.
We are practitioners in the mental health field, we hope to inspire wellness and awareness in your life through some golden nuggets of our experiences and training. In addition, share valuable resources to continue living a well balanced life. 
Below is a little bit about each one of us. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Joanna Cortes-Agnello has been in the counseling field for over thirteen years. She has worked with various populations specializing in individual work with adults and with therapeutic interventions with children and adolescents. In addition to providing mental health counseling services through her private practice, Joanna works for the City University of New York as a licensed mental health professional and as a lecturer teaching psychology in the Behavioral Sciences Department. 
Joanna Cortes-Agnello received her Ed.M in Psychological Counseling from Columbia University in 2003. In addition to her psychological counseling degree, Joanna is both a licensed Mental Health Counselor and a licensed School Counselor. Joanna also has a Master of Arts degree in Social-Organizational Psychology from Columbia University, but has a passion for clinical work and for helping individuals to reach their full potential. 
Joanna specializes in individual and EMDR therapy. In addition, Joanna specializes in anxiety disorders; traumas (PTSD); difficult life transitions; grief counseling and adolescent issues. As a licensed mental health counselor with over thirteen years in the counseling field, she understands the importance of living a joyful life. She believes the key to a therapeutic relationship is the connection made. Her goal is to work collaboratively with you to provide the necessary tools to enable you to grow as an individual. Her approach is holistic, collaborative and based on acceptance and compassion.  
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Desiree received her Bachelors Degree from the University of California, Davis.  She completed her Master’s in Counseling at Long Island University, Brooklyn. Using a cognitive behavioral and person centered approach, her practice consists of aiding clients in discovering inner strength and renewed confidence that enables them to reach the life goals they hope for.  Practicing in the field over 7 years, Desiree has extensive experience with children, adolescents, college students and adults.
Desiree Specializes in anxiety disorders, depression, relationship issues, and issues related to anger. Desiree's practice is centered on using a holistic and eclectic approach to therapy. She works with clients to help them feel more comfortable and less anxious, feel more confident in a new environment and adjust to the difficulties life can bring. Individuals have the answers within themselves and when given the space to explore, the solutions can be found. Her goal is to work with her clients to discover ways to allow for positive change and personal growth. 
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Tanupreet Suri received her Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling degree from Long Island University in Brooklyn, New York. She received her Bachelors of Arts from University of Maryland in Baltimore. Tanu is also a limited permit mental health counselor in New York City. In addition to providing counseling services, Tanu also works for the City University of New York as an Advisor and a Wellness Consultant for the University's STEM Initiative.
Tanu has extensive background working with a range of populations in various areas, including community health, health education, awareness, promotion, and wellness. She also has years of additional experience working with the college-aged population providing one on one and group therapy on college campuses.
Tanu's therapeutic philosophy focuses on a holistic approach, utilizing a variety of therapy techniques. She has been trained in the humanistic approach, psycho-dynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and more. She strongly believes in the integrative model in which an eclectic style is utilized tailoring the therapy to each individual's needs. Tanu works in a very collaborative, empathetic and supportive manner. 
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Looking forward to sharing with you soon!