Beyond The Barriers with Alex Hatley and Alexis Prunczik

 The stigma surrounding mental health has various impacts on individuals, such as preventing them from seeking treatment and causing discrimination in the workplace. Addressing stigma can lead to better access to care and resources for those with mental health conditions, as well as promoting social inclusion and empowerment for individuals to manage their health and pursue their goals. It can also foster a stronger, more diverse community. During the podcast, Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS discuss the importance of mental health and the challenges faced by marginalized communities when it comes to accessing mental health resources. He is joined by two preseasoned therapists, Alex Hatley and Alexis Prunczic, who share their personal experiences and insights on the topic. Together, they discuss the impact of systemic racism, poverty, and other social factors on mental health and how community involvement can help in raising awareness and promoting access to mental health services. They emphasize the need for Stigma around mental health needs to be addressed in order to promote well-being and reduce discrimination against those living with mental health challenges. To reduce stigma, it is important to promote open conversations, educate ourselves and others, and advocate for supportive policies and human rights. Acknowledging individuals' abilities and empowering them to reach their full potential can also help reduce stigma. Media also plays a role in perpetuating or reducing stigma, so it is important to be mindful of the content we consume and create.

Mental health stigma is a negative attitude or belief towards people with mental health conditions, and it is common in society. Public stigma is when people view mental health negatively and may prevent individuals from seeking help. There is also self-stigma where individuals put themselves down or identify strongly with their diagnosis. Structural stigma is when societal structures create an environment of stigmatizing certain groups, such as those in the LGBTQ+ community or low-income individuals. The consequences of mental health stigma can include individuals not seeking This was a conversation about the stigma surrounding mental health and the barriers that prevent people from seeking help. The participants discussed the societal pressures and stereotypes that contribute to the stigma, and how this can lead to social isolation and discrimination for those struggling with mental health challenges. They also discussed the importance of education and empathy and the need for more accessible and supportive mental health services in the workplace.

Alexis M. Prunczik and Alexandra Hatley are both master 's-level Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate students at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
Ms. Prunczik is a mental health professional of six years; her work includes being a Direct Support Professional II within group homes, an Autism Support Specialist, an Applied Behavior Analysis Therapist, and currently a Qualified Professional and Employment Support Professional III. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Minor in Alcohol & Drug Studies through East Carolina University.
Ms. Hatley also previously has experience as a Registered Behavioral Technician within the Applied Behavior Analysis field and double-majored in psychology and sociology during her undergraduate studies at East Carolina University. She volunteered at a Crisis Text-Line center for over a year and is interested in growing as a professional through knowledge and advocating for both equality and access.
#multiculturalism #decolonizetherapy #mentalhealthawareness

Hosted by Felipe Blue, LCAS, LCMHCA, CCS

Recorded at More Than Therapy

201 W Main Street

Suite 316

Durham, NC 27701

Director of Photography:

Kaya Jay

Intro Music:

Felipe Blue