In this enlightening episode of "It's Where I Am," host Zandra Polard engages with school counselor Katie Ordonez to explore the vital differences between school counselors and psychologists. They delve into the importance of social-emotional wellness in students, discuss innovative programs like the Hope Squad aimed at suicide prevention, and highlight the critical role peers play in supporting each other. Katie shares valuable insights on identifying warning signs of distress in youth, the sig...
Sep 28, 2024•26 min•Ep. 114
Zandra Polard hosts a discussion on mental health and wellness, focusing on adolescents. Dr. Kennard emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in their child's treatment, highlighting that parents are experts on their child. Danielle McCafferty stresses the need for parents to regulate their own emotions to model healthy behavior for their children. They discuss the significance of understanding both the child's and parent's perspectives. Dr. Kennard introduces Sun Arch Academy, a reside...
Sep 14, 2024•27 min•Ep. 113
In this episode, host Zandra Polard sits down with Dr. Kennard, a behavioral health expert, and Danielle McCafferty, an educator and trauma-informed yoga instructor, to discuss the challenges of working with adolescents. They explore practical strategies for teachers, like fostering trust and connection, dealing with trauma, and managing classroom behaviors. Dr. Kennard shares her experience from a residential care facility, explaining how to support adolescents with complex needs. Meanwhile, Da...
Sep 07, 2024•28 min•Ep. 112
In this enlightening episode of It's Where I Am, host Zandra Polard interviews renowned yoga instructor Danielle McCafferty about her innovative approaches to stress management and trauma healing through yoga and breathwork. Danielle shares her extensive studies across Southeast Asia and Europe, highlighting techniques like ecstatic breathwork and Thai massage that bridge somatic therapies with modern wellness practices. The conversation delves into the scientific benefits of breathwork, its app...
Aug 31, 2024•30 min•Ep. 111
In this episode of "It's Where I Am," Zandra Polard sits down with Kristopher Fields, a remarkable community leader from Texas who has turned his life around from being an at-risk youth to receiving prestigious honors like the United States Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. Kristopher shares his journey of overcoming personal struggles, finding redemption, and dedicating his life to inspiring the next generation. Through his organization, "Wise Up to Rise Up," and his book, From Dreams to...
Aug 17, 2024•30 min•Ep. 110
In this heartfelt episode, Zandra Polard sits down with Brian Hagens, founder of Dream Dads, an organization dedicated to supporting fathers across the country. Brian shares his deeply personal journey of growing up in Long Beach, becoming a father, and the challenges he faced in advocating for fathers in a society that often overlooks them. The conversation takes a profound turn as Brian, known as "Limmie" to his newly reunited family, recounts his experience of discovering his adoption, reconn...
Aug 10, 2024•30 min•Ep. 109
In this episode of "It's Where I Am," host Zandra Polard sits down with Danielle McCafferty, a former crime scene analyst turned yoga instructor. Danielle shares her journey from the criminal justice field to becoming a yoga teacher, focusing on trauma healing. They discuss how yoga can be a powerful tool for addressing and releasing trauma stored in the body. Danielle also talks about her book "You Have the Key," which offers mantras and affirmations for personal growth. Listen in as they explo...
Aug 03, 2024•27 min•Ep. 108
In this inspiring episode, Zandra Polard sits down with Ashley Tesoro, reigning Mrs. Universe, to discuss her extraordinary journey in the world of pageantry and beyond. From starting in beauty pageants at the tender age of six to becoming a successful soap opera actress and now holding multiple prestigious titles, Ashley shares her experiences and insights. She delves into the mental health challenges of the industry, the importance of self-acceptance, and the significance of charitable work. A...
Jul 27, 2024•25 min•Ep. 107
In this episode of "It's Where I Am," host Zandra Polard explores the unexpected mental health benefits of boxing with Coach Danny Vela of Undefeated Boxing in Henderson, Nevada. Zandra shares her personal journey from a concerned mother to an enthusiastic supporter of the sport. Coach Danny delves into how boxing builds work ethic, character, and confidence in both children and adults. They discuss the gym's supportive environment, its impact on the community, and the transformative stories of ...
Jul 20, 2024•29 min•Ep. 106
In this episode, host Zandra Polard returns from a sabbatical and dives into a conversation with Alex Bernal, the Clark County Parks and Recreation Community Outreach Coordinator, and his colleague, Sharon Steele. They discuss their innovative rebranding of the "Gang Intervention Team" to the "Gap Intervention Team" and the multifaceted approach they take to support at-risk youth in Las Vegas. They delve into the importance of community involvement, preventive measures, and the crucial role of p...
Jul 13, 2024•30 min•Ep. 104
Join Zandra Polard as she continues her insightful discussion with Alex Bernal and Sharon Steele in part two of their conversation on community outreach and youth intervention in Las Vegas. This episode delves into the critical services provided by Clark County's recreational centers, including educational support, life skills workshops, and vital resources for at-risk youth. The guests share inspiring success stories and emphasize the importance of addressing community needs through trust, coll...
Jul 06, 2024•30 min•Ep. 105
In this episode of "It's Where I Am" on 91.5 FM, guest host Dr. David Gennis from Great Mind Counseling and Wellness Center discusses the integration of occupational therapy in mental health services. Joined by colleague Anna Ketron Cusano, an occupational therapist, they delve into the basics of OT, its historical roots, and its application in enhancing the quality of life for patients with severe mental illness. The conversation highlights the holistic, individualized approach of Great Mind Co...
Jun 22, 2024•30 min•Ep. 103
In this heartfelt episode of "It's Where I Am," Dr. David Gennis from Great Minds Counseling and Wellness Center engages in an inspiring conversation with Pedro from Paradigm Artistry. Pedro shares his transformative journey from struggling with self-esteem and cystic acne to discovering the power of makeup and cosmetology. Highlighting the profound impact of beauty on mental health, Pedro recounts his experiences as an EMT during the pandemic, his work with individuals with special needs, and h...
Jun 15, 2024•30 min•Ep. 102
In this episode of "It's Where I Am" on 91.5 FM KUNV, guest host Dr. David Gennis, Clinical and Public Relations Director at Great Mind Counseling and Wellness Center, delves into the essential topic of behavioral health inpatient treatment. Joined by esteemed psychiatrist Dr. Deepa Hasija, they discuss the services offered at Desert Parkway Behavioral Health Hospital, demystifying the processes and addressing common concerns about mental health crises. They explore what families can expect duri...
Jun 08, 2024•26 min•Ep. 101
In this heartfelt episode, host Zandra Polard returns from her sabbatical to delve into the impactful work of Alex Bernal and Sharon Steele from the Clark County Parks and Recreation Department. The conversation focuses on the transformative New Directions and Gap Intervention Team (GIT) programs aimed at supporting at-risk youth. Alex and Sharon discuss their innovative approaches to filling the gaps for kids in need, the evolution from gang intervention to comprehensive community support, and ...
Jun 01, 2024•26 min•Ep. 100
In this episode of "It's Where I Am," guest host Dr. David Gennis, clinical and public relations director from Great Mind Counseling and Wellness Center, spotlights the work of Sara Hernandez, a licensed clinical social worker from TheraNevada Mental Health. Sara shares her journey from being a nervous intern to becoming an expert in providing therapy for diverse populations, including children, adults, elders, military personnel, and first responders. They discuss the importance of reducing sti...
May 25, 2024•30 min•Ep. 99
In this heartfelt episode of "It's Where I Am," guest host Dr. David Gennis from Great Mind Counseling and Wellness Center welcomes Tiosha, a single mother of two, to share her parenting journey. They discuss the challenges and rewards of raising children with a significant age gap, the importance of setting boundaries, and the vital role of a supportive community. Tiosha opens up about her strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, the significance of self-care, and the value of ap...
May 18, 2024•30 min•Ep. 98
Join Dr. David Gennis as he hosts a candid conversation with Natalie Davidson, Referral Relations Specialist at Recovery Ways. Together, they delve into the complexities of mental health treatment, offering insights into Recovery Ways' tailored approach to care. From addressing dual diagnoses to fostering compassion in service provision, they highlight the importance of individualized support and the upcoming expansion of mental health services in Nevada. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding o...
May 11, 2024•30 min•Ep. 97
Join Dr. David Gennis as he guest hosts "It's Where I Am" on 91.5 FM, delving into the intricate dynamics of the Battle of Inner Children with guest Christina. In this insightful episode, Christina shares her personal journey of seeking therapy and rebuilding a relationship with her estranged mother, highlighting the profound impact of childhood trauma on adult relationships. From discussing abandonment issues to fostering self-worth and positive perspectives, the conversation offers a beacon of...
Apr 27, 2024•28 min•Ep. 96
Join Dr. David Gennis as he explores the intricacies of the coming out process with special guest Adam, a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community. From the initial fears and anxieties to the empowering journey of self-acceptance, this insightful conversation delves into the challenges faced by individuals during their coming out journey. Through personal experiences and reflections, listeners gain valuable insights into supporting loved ones through this transformative process. Tune in to "It's Whe...
Apr 20, 2024•28 min•Ep. 95
Join Dr. David Gennis as he hosts "It's Where I Am" on 91.5 FM KUNV, exploring mental health resources and reducing stigma. In this episode, Dr. G welcomes back psychiatrist Dr. Deepa Hasija from Satori Behavioral Health to delve into the complexities of child psychiatry and the use of psychotropic medications. From understanding diagnostic assessments to discussing treatment options and potential side effects, Dr. Hasija provides invaluable insights for caregivers navigating the journey of supp...
Apr 13, 2024•30 min•Ep. 94
In this enlightening episode of "It's Where I Am," host Dr. David Gennis delves into the world of adolescent mental health with Stephanie Brown, a community liaison at Willow Springs Center in Reno, Nevada. Together, they explore the facility's comprehensive approach to mental health services for adolescents aged 12 to 17, shedding light on its unique locked residential treatment program and outpatient services. Through an in-depth discussion, listeners gain insight into Willow Springs' philosop...
Apr 06, 2024•26 min•Ep. 93
Join Dr. G and Scooter from Great Mind Counseling and Wellness Center as they tackle listener questions on mental health in this insightful podcast episode. From addressing self-esteem issues to managing sad or anxious moods, they provide practical tips and strategies for navigating various emotional challenges. With a focus on perspective-taking, self-talk, and fostering healthy relationships, they offer valuable advice for individuals and parents alike. Additionally, they shed light on support...
Mar 23, 2024•30 min•Ep. 92
Join Dr. G and Cassandra Cotton, a marriage and family therapist intern, in a heartfelt discussion about the Neba L. Wright Foundation. Named after Cassandra's daughter, the foundation aims to provide support, care, and resources to individuals and families navigating the complexities of grief and loss. Through workshops, seminars, and community events, the foundation creates a safe space where people can find solace, share their experiences, and receive the support they need. Explore the journe...
Mar 16, 2024•28 min•Ep. 91
Dr. G engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Don Butterfield, the Chief Executive Officer of Reno Behavioral Health Care Hospital (RBHH). Together, they explore the vital role RBHH plays in the mental health landscape of Nevada, discussing the comprehensive range of services provided, from inpatient and outpatient programs to specialized care for adults and youth. Don Butterfield shares insights into the hospital's commitment to individualized care, community support, and its Flourish ...
Mar 09, 2024•29 min•Ep. 90
Join Dr. G on "It's Where I Am" as he sits down with Levy Shultz, a passionate candidate running for the US House of Representatives in Nevada's fourth congressional district. In this engaging conversation, Levy sheds light on critical issues such as affordable housing and healthcare reform. Drawing from personal experiences and a military background, Levy advocates for change, emphasizing the need for civility in politics and a commitment to the well-being of everyday citizens. Discover his uni...
Mar 02, 2024•29 min•Ep. 89
In this enlightening episode, Dr. David Gennis hosts Shawna Hewson, Assistant Clinical Director at Radiant Ketamine Clinic, shedding light on the transformative world of ketamine therapy. Discover the groundbreaking FDA-approved uses of ketamine for mental health, from treating treatment-resistant depression to managing symptoms of PTSD and chronic pain. Shawna demystifies common misconceptions, sharing insights on the safety and efficacy of ketamine treatments. Gain a deeper understanding of ho...
Feb 17, 2024•29 min•Ep. 88
Join Dr. David Gennis in an engaging conversation with Dr. Colleen Mullen, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and host of the newly launched podcast, Love Unboxed. Dr. Mullen shares insights from her 20 years of experience in helping couples navigate through trauma, codependency, and the complexities of relationships. Love Unboxed is a unique podcast where listeners can submit relationship dilemmas, and Dr. Mullen "unboxes" these topics, offering practical advice and valuable insights. Fro...
Feb 10, 2024•30 min•Ep. 87
In this episode of "It's Where I Am", Dr. David Gennis welcomes Dr. Deepa Hasija, a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist, to discuss mental health care in Las Vegas. They explore the importance of reducing stigmas surrounding psychiatric services and emphasize the comprehensive approach taken at Satori Behavioral Health. Dr. Hasija shares insights into her clinic's mission, addressing the scarcity of child psychiatrists in the community and highlighting the significance of early int...
Feb 03, 2024•29 min•Ep. 86
Join Dr. G in this enlightening episode as he engages in a thought-provoking conversation with special guest, Dr. Nicole Andreatta, a psychologist, marriage and family therapist, and executive coach. Dr. Andreatta delves into the realm of positive psychology, challenging common misconceptions and sharing insights into its transformative impact. Explore the roots of positive psychology, uncover the virtues and character strengths that contribute to human flourishing, and learn practical approache...
Jan 27, 2024•30 min•Ep. 85