"There is a correlation between cultural identity formation and wellness. And so that's the heart of this center. It's creating a space that is culturally affirming, intergenerationally engaging, human gathering space, that can be a natural entry point for speaking to the bigger issues of mental health..."

Stephanie Garma Balón, MA, AMFT (she/her) is a second-gen, cisgender, Pinay-American, daughter of immigrant parents of Ilokano & Visayan decent & proud Mama—born/raised on occupied land of the Ramaytush Ohlone people, AKA: San Francisco/Daly City. She is also the co-chair of Filipino Mental Health Initiative (FMHI) in San Mateo County.

In this episode, Steph shares the unfolding of her therapist journey. We invite you to listen in as she walks us through the different life experiences that led her to the field of mental health — the journey she refers to as "following the breadcrumbs." Steph also shares about her heartwork: providing a culturally affirming and healing space for the Filipino/a/x community through the Social Enterprise Cultural Center, which is set to open by 2022.

If you have some time, could you so kindly visit the FMHI website to learn about the vision and mission for the Social Enterprise Cultural Center. Or, share this episode to someone who may be yearning to connect with the Filipino/a/x community. Maraming salamat for joining us.
To reach us: [email protected]
To reach Steph: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-balon-ma-amft-8b139a8
IG: @stephrock333
Filipino Mental Health Initiative: [email protected]
Social Enterprise Cultural Center: https://fmhi-smc.org/social-enterprise-community-center/
Disclaimer: Content on this podcast is not intended to substitute for professional advice.

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