In this conversation, Lacy Simmons, a licensed psychotherapist, shares her journey into mental health, focusing on her work with the unhoused population in Los Angeles. She discusses the intersection of mental health and homelessness, the barriers individuals face in accessing services, and the importance of trauma-informed care. Lacy emphasizes the need for compassion, understanding, and the recognition of humanity in those experiencing homelessness. She also highlights the significance of boundaries in therapy and personal life, and the evolving landscape of mental health treatment, advocating for greater accessibility and inclusivity in mental health services.

Lacy Simmons is a licensed therapist and clinical social worker in Los Angeles, California. One of her professional areas of focus includes working to support the mental health and recovery of unhoused Angelenos as they transition from street homelessness into permanent supportive housing. Additionally, in Lacy's private practice she is known as "The Boundary Therapist" and works with adults on understanding the importance of establishing healthy boundaries in all aspects of their lives. Lacy uses multiple treatment modalities to address trauma recovery including EMDR.

Story Notes:

• Introduction to Lacy Simmons and Her Journey
• Addressing Homelessness and Mental Health
• Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Services
• Success Stories in Mental Health Support
• Seeing Humanity in the Unhoused
• Understanding Trauma-Informed Care
• The Importance of Boundaries
• Navigating Chronic Illness and Support
• Evolving Mental Health Landscape

To learn more about Lacy Simmons, visit:

Website: https://msha.ke/theboundarytherapist

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theboundarytherapist/

To learn more about the Social Brew, visit:

https://socialbrew.us/

In this episode of The Conscious Cup Podcast, Don and Bridget Brewster share their journey of founding Agape International Missions (AIM) and their work in combating sex trafficking in Cambodia. They discuss the origins of AIM and how they were inspired to take action after witnessing the trafficking of children in Cambodia. The couple explains the various programs and initiatives AIM has implemented, including aftercare centers, a SWAT team, an employment center, and a school. They also highlight the importance of self-care and celebrating victories in the fight against trafficking. The Brewsters emphasize the need for financial support, prayer, and awareness-building to combat this issue.

Story Notes:

• The Origins of AIM and the Need for Action
• The Programs and Initiatives of AIM
• Taking Care of Oneself and Celebrating Victories
• Supporting the Fight Against Sex Trafficking
• Future Plans for AIM
• Getting Involved in the Fight Against Trafficking

To learn more about Bridget and Don Brewster, visit:

https://aimfree.org/

To learn more about the Social Brew, visit:

https://socialbrew.us/

Join Simone Ispahani on The Conscious Cup podcast as she delves into the inspiring journey of Jenny Footle, the incredible founder of Beautiful Feet Wellness, in this week's episode. In this episode, Simone and Jenny discuss the origins of Beautiful Feet Wellness, Jenny's personal experiences with human trafficking, and the impactful work she does to help survivors heal holistically—body, mind, and spirit.

Jenny shares her journey from volunteering at safe houses to founding Beautiful Feet Wellness, emphasizing the importance of community and real relationships in the healing process. With a background in fitness and personal training, Jenny explains how physical activity plays a vital role in helping survivors reconnect with their bodies and move from a state of survival to thriving.

The episode also delves into the challenges Jenny faced as a person of color and someone with lived experience, highlighting the barriers she overcame to establish and sustain Beautiful Feet Wellness. As Jenny pursues her studies in public health, she sheds light on the holistic approach the organization takes and the significance of building a strong support system for survivors.

Story Notes:

• Building Community and Connection
• Formation of Beautiful Feet Wellness
• Mission and Approach of Beautiful Feet Wellness
• Challenges Faced as an Entrepreneur
• Supporting Long-Term Healing
• Moving from Surviving to Thriving
• Upcoming Events and Projects
• Book Release

To learn more about Jenny Footle, visit:

Website: https://beautifulfeetwellness.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautiful.feet.wellness/

Website: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/railroad-jenny-footle/1143803183?ean=9798223788607

To learn more about the Social Brew, visit:

https://socialbrew.us/