This episode of 'This is Beacon' features Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon welcoming special guest Courtney Rovere, a licensed clinical social worker and educator, as part of the #Jointheconversation series. Theconversation centers around the importance of mental health, wellness, andCourtney's journey in the field. Courtney shares her experiences working in theHudson Valley, her education in Boston, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemicon her decision to return home. She highlights the need for systemic change inthe mental health field, particularly emphasizing the role of women whoconstitute a majority of the workforce. Courtney discusses her research and thesignificant issues like burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and workforce turnover.She suggests solutions such as creating safe and affirming workspaces,elevating the voices of those with lived experiences, reducing rigid fundingconstraints, and focusing on collective care. The episode underscores theimportance of small, everyday efforts to foster community and support mentalhealth.