A conversation with a psychotherapist on mental health and the intersection with dance movement therapy.
Aaron Mason is a licensed psychotherapist and movement artist based in the Los Angeles area. His study of dance has included the techniques of Hip-Hop, House, Jazz, Ballet, Modern, and most recently West-African dance.
Aaron received his bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of San Diego in 2006, and his Master’s in Counseling Psychology from California State University, Long Beach with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2014. Aaron is currently the clinical director of REACH LA, a non-profit organization serving LGBTQ+ BIPOC in the Los Angeles area, and also maintains a small private practice. Aaron is currently continuing his education through the study of dance movement therapy in hopes of blending his passions for dance and the healing arts.
In this episode, we talked about his perspectives on mental wellbeing, thoughts on different branches and practices (ie. dance movement therapy), the importance of having connection, finding your tribe, and finally last but not least; how critical it is to be kind to your mind.
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Time Stamps
00:00:00 -- Intro
00:04:43 – What is Mental Health?
00:06:23 – History of mental health
00:08:53 – Branches of mental health
00:13:53 – Spectrum / Recognizing mental health
00:18:43 – Importance of Language
00:22:23 – Gender differences of emotional sensitivity
00:25:53 – Mental Health Stigmas
00:30:13 -- Importance of connection/belonging
00:32:01 -- Find your tribe
00:37:10 -- Importance of self-talk / personal dialog
00:41:53 -- Pandemic's impact on mental health
00:46:53 -- Tools for offering mental health support
00:50:20 – Star Trek Discovery - a future of compassion
00:57:08 – Evolution of mental health practices
00:59:43 – Sense vs sensitivity
01:04:23 – Navigating societal pressures
01:07:23 – Movement dance therapy
01:09:53 -- Social Media’s influence on mental wellness
01:17:48 – Pandemic’s influence on mental health professionals
01:21:23 – How can mental health practitioners be supported?
01:22:53 – Background & Origin
01:30:23 – Dance brings people together
01:35:43 – Mental health resources
01:38:23 – Support with sensitivity & compassion
01:41:23 – Closing statements
