This episode holds a special place in my heart as a Proud Filipina - a few weeks ago I sat down with Licensed Professional Counselor, Cristina Castro. In this episode, we spoke about the different representations of mental health in Filipino households - the struggles, the triumphs, and the lessons learned. Please know that our perspectives are based on our personal experiences. This is about us for us and for those who can relate. We also would like to dedicate this episode to a Filipino-American comedian and actor, JoKoy, and his most recent movie, Easter Sunday - a true milestone for Filipinos in Film. Salamat Jokoy for reminding us that it is okay to have tabos in our bathrooms.

More about Cristina Castro:

I'm Cristina Castro and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and doctoral student at Adler University in Counselor Education and Supervision. I practice at Gray Matter Therapy in Vernon Hills, IL. I immigrated from the Philippines to America when I was 12 years old with my family. My mother is rooted in Batangas and my father is from Pampanga, although we are mainly from Manila. As a clinician, mental health is important to me because I see firsthand the positive impact it has in changing people's lives. As Filipinas, mental health allows us to create a stronger connection to ourselves which leads to healthier and happier relationships with our community.

You can find Cristina Castro in the following:

Gray Matter Instagram: @graymattertherapy

Gray Matter Facebook:https://m.facebook.com/graytherapy

Gray Matter Website:www.graymattertherapy.net

Psychology Today:https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/maria-cristina-castro-vernon-hills-il/882165

Kasamahan email:president@kasamahan.org