Exploring Holistic Mental Health & Family Dynamics with Hawani Tessema

01/11/2024 34 min

Listen "Exploring Holistic Mental Health & Family Dynamics with Hawani Tessema"

Episode Synopsis

In this insightful episode, Roselynn Onah welcomes Hawani Tessema, founder of HuMarkable LLC, a mental health practice focused on prevention, psychoeducation, and trauma-informed care. Hawani shares her journey into counseling, from her early days as a youth leader to becoming a mental health professional with a unique perspective on holistic, strength-based approaches to care. Together, they explore the critical role of mental health in relationships, family dynamics, and the importance of addressing mental well-being proactively.
Segment Highlights:

Origin StoryHawani reflects on her path into mental health care, inspired by her volunteer work within her community. She emphasizes the impact of creating a trusted space for others and how her early experiences influenced her dedication to formal training in counseling.

Why Prevention and Trauma-Informed Care?Hawani discusses her commitment to preventive mental health care, focusing on psychoeducation to help individuals understand and manage potential mental health challenges before they escalate. She highlights the power of addressing root causes and social pressures that contribute to mental health issues, particularly within family and cultural contexts.

Family Dynamics & Cultural PressureExploring themes common in her practice, Hawani delves into the cultural and familial expectations that many youth face, often resulting in performance pressures. She offers insights into balancing parental expectations with healthy boundaries for children, especially within multicultural settings.

Hot Seat SegmentIn a scenario involving a mother-daughter relationship strained by religious differences, Hawani shares strategies for navigating complex family dynamics with respect for each individual’s autonomy. She emphasizes the importance of empathy, clear communication, and personal boundaries.

Understanding Trauma & Trauma-Informed CareHawani breaks down what trauma really means, from “big T” and “small t” trauma, to the significance of trauma-informed care in ensuring that individuals feel safe and supported without triggering past traumas. This segment is an accessible guide to understanding and approaching trauma in ourselves and others.

Rapid Fire Questions

Favorite Self-Care Activity: Music and long walks by the National Mall.
Mental Health Myth: Therapy isn’t just for those in crisis—proactive care is powerful!
Advice for Therapy Newcomers: Therapy is a two-way journey; be open, communicative, and ready to explore.



Connect with Hawani Tessema:

Website: humarkable.com (Launching Soon)
Spotify: Check out her reflective music on spirituality, relationships, and healing.

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