Masada

🗓️ Save the Date: October 13-19, 2024 🗓️ This week marks OCD Awareness Week (#OCDweek), an essential global initiative aimed at dispelling myths and breaking the stigma surrounding obsessive-compulsive disorder. At Masada, we are dedicated to supporting the over 200 million people worldwide living with OCD. We understand that misconceptions about this condition can significantly hinder individuals from seeking and receiving the effective treatment necessary for them to thrive. By raising awareness and educating the public, we can collectively contribute to a world where mental health is prioritized and accessible. Whether you're sharing informative content, personal stories, or advocating for mental health in your community, every effort counts towards making a profound impact. Join us in making a powerful difference this #OCDweek. Let’s change lives together by embracing understanding, support, and effective interventions. #MentalHealthMatters #MasadaCares #ProfessionalCommunity #OCDawareness

Today, on World Mental Health Day, we are focusing on this year’s theme: Mental Health at Work. At Masada, we understand the importance of creating a supportive work environment where mental health is prioritized. Promoting mental well-being at work not only benefits individuals but also leads to a more productive and engaged workforce. We’re sharing Seven Actions You Can Take for Better Mental Health at Work to encourage our team and the broader community to prioritize their well-being. Let’s continue working together to foster a healthier, more supportive workplace every day. #WorldMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthAtWork #MasadaProud #WellbeingAtWork #SupportAndEducate #MentalHealthMatters

🌍 Today is World Mental Health Day! 🌍 At Masada, we are deeply committed to making mental health a priority in our community. This year’s theme focuses on ensuring mental health is a global priority for all. By fostering awareness, providing access to resources, and offering support, we aim to break the stigma and create a world where seeking mental health care is normalized and encouraged. Mental health impacts all of us. Let’s work together to raise awareness, provide support, and make well-being a reality for everyone. Your mental health matters, and together, we can make a difference. #WorldMentalHealthDay #MasadaProud #MentalHealthMatters #BreakTheStigma #CommunityWellness #SupportAndEducate #GlobalMentalHealth

Meet Cynthia Aguilar, LMFT, one of our dedicated Clinical Supervisors at Masada. Cynthia has been with us for 7 years, starting as a community-based therapist and recently stepping into her role as a Clinical Supervisor. When asked what inspires her in her work, Cynthia shared, “I’ve always been fascinated by people’s stories—where they’ve been and where they hope to go. It’s an honor to hold space for them as they navigate both the darkest parts of their journey and the beauty of their resilience. The most inspiring part is watching clients begin to believe in themselves and recognize that, despite their challenges, they are the authors of their own stories.” Cynthia’s Hispanic background plays an essential role in her approach to serving the community. “As someone who shares a cultural background with many of the families I work with, I feel a natural connection. Speaking the same language and having similar experiences allows me to build trust and rapport quickly. I always prioritize understanding both personal and family values, which are key components in the Hispanic/Latino/a community.” A moment that stands out in Cynthia’s career is when the mother of a former client reached out with exciting news. “I worked with this family for years, helping the client recognize their potential. The mother called to tell me that her child had achieved their goal of obtaining a student work permit and started their first part-time job. It’s moments like these that remind me why I do this work—seeing families continue to thrive and knowing I played a part in their journey.” We’re incredibly grateful for Cynthia’s leadership and the positive impact she brings to our team and the community we serve. #HispanicHeritageMonth #MasadaFamily #LatinxLeadership #MentalHealthMatters #CommunitySupport #CulturalCompetency #FamilyEmpowerment

Meet Ariel Reyes, ACSW, one of our dedicated Outpatient Therapists. Ariel began his journey at Masada as a Wraparound Child and Family Specialist, returned to school to earn his Master’s degree, and has now returned to Masada in his new role as an Outpatient Therapist. “What inspires me most is helping clients who come to us with challenges that can feel overwhelming. Seeing the growth and progress that clients and their families achieve over time is incredibly rewarding,” Ariel shares. As a Latino male who grew up in a culture where mental health was often stigmatized, Ariel is committed to challenging that narrative. “I use my own experiences to normalize mental health treatment for clients and families who may have faced similar challenges. It’s important to show that seeking help is a sign of strength, not vulnerability.” One moment that stands out for Ariel was working with a young client struggling with anxiety and low self-esteem. “When we first began treatment, the client and caregiver felt overwhelmed. After six months, the client met his treatment goals and no longer experienced anxiety. During our final session, the caregiver joked, ‘I think you did too good of a job because now his self-esteem is through the roof!’ It’s moments like these that remind me why I’m passionate about this work.” We are proud to have Ariel’s dedication and expertise on our team, making a positive impact in the lives of our clients and community every day! #HispanicHeritageMonth #MasadaFamily #MentalHealth #LatinxTherapists #CommunitySupport #Empowerment #CulturalCompetency

Meet Cynthia Lugo Diaz, ACSW, one of our dedicated Outpatient Therapists. Cynthia began her journey at Masada as a Case Manager, returned to school to earn her Master’s degree, and is now back with us as a Therapist. Cynthia shared, “I’m deeply inspired by the strength and resilience of my community. As a Chicana, I carry the stories and struggles of my ancestors, and I see those same battles reflected in the lives of the individuals we serve. Knowing that my work helps uplift not just individuals but entire families and generations fuels my passion.” Her cultural background and shared experiences allow her to connect deeply with clients facing challenges related to identity, systemic oppression, and generational trauma. “I strive to honor my clients’ cultural identities and empower them to embrace their traditions, languages, and stories as sources of strength.” One of Cynthia’s proudest moments was working with a young Latina client struggling with her dual identity. Through their work together, the client developed a healthy sense of self and found power in embracing both sides of her heritage. “Seeing her growth was incredibly rewarding and a reminder of why I do what I do—to help our clients find healing, pride, and power in who they are.” We’re proud to have Cynthia on our team and grateful for her commitment to making a positive impact in our community every day! #HispanicHeritageMonth #MasadaFamily #MentalHealth #CommunityImpact #LatinxTherapists #CulturalCompetency #Empowerment

October is ADHD Awareness Month, and at Masada, we're dedicated to raising awareness and promoting understanding of ADHD. This neurodevelopmental disorder affects both children and adults, often impacting attention, executive function, and working memory, which can make daily tasks more challenging. By increasing awareness, we can help provide the necessary support and resources for individuals with ADHD to thrive in their personal and professional lives. Join us this month in learning more and supporting ADHD awareness. Visit ADHDAwarenessMonth.org to discover how you can contribute to this important cause. #ADHDAwarenessMonth #MasadaProud #MentalHealthMatters #ADHDSupport #CommunityAwareness #ADHDAcceptance

As we close out #RecoveryAwarenessMonth, it’s important to highlight the vital role that relationships and social networks play in fostering love, hope, and support. At Masada, we understand that recovery is a journey made easier through connection and encouragement. No matter who you are or where you are on your path, with the right support, long-term recovery is possible. Together, we can make recovery a reality for everyone. Learn more about how you can support someone on their recovery journey: https://lnkd.in/gApze4-U. #RecoveryMonth #MasadaProud #EndTheStigma #SupportAndRecovery #CommunityHealing #RecoveryForAll

As we reach the final day of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, it's important to remember that we all have a role to play in #SuicidePrevention. Starting a conversation with someone who may be struggling, offering support, and modeling self-care are powerful ways to provide hope to those who need it most. At Masada, we are committed to fostering a supportive community where mental health is prioritized and help is always within reach. #SPM24 #MasadaProud #MentalHealthMatters #SuicidePrevention #SupportAndCare #YouAreNotAlone

✨ Celebrating Human Resources Professionals Day! ✨ Today, we’re recognizing Silvia Velasquez-Cruz, our dedicated Human Resources Specialist, who plays an essential role in supporting our team and advancing Masada’s mission. “I’m inspired by our staff who work together to support our communities and further Masada’s mission,” Silvia shares. As an HR professional, she’s committed to ensuring that every employee feels safe, supported, and valued in the workplace. One of Silvia’s proudest achievements is the introduction of the “Wellness Corner” segment in our employee newsletter. “It’s all about spotlighting ways to prioritize health and wellness and encouraging staff to use the tools and services offered through our benefits package,” she explains. This initiative has helped promote well-being across the organization. Silvia also sees HR as a unique opportunity to shape a positive experience for new employees from day one. “HR is often one of the first points of contact for new staff, and I see it as a chance to set a positive tone for their journey with Masada,” she says. She’s passionate about fostering a supportive and compliant work environment that aligns with our values and mission. For Silvia, the most rewarding part of HR is hearing feedback from staff about how her efforts are making a difference. “Knowing what’s working and what can be improved motivates me to continue enhancing the employee experience,” she says. Thank you, Silvia, for your dedication to supporting our team and making Masada a place where everyone can thrive! 💼👏 #HRProfessionalsDay #EmployeeWellbeing #Wellness #WorkplaceCulture #MasadaValues #HumanResources