What is the role of immigration, conflicting cultural realities, and changing demographics on emotional and mental wellness in AAPI communities? We’ll bring together True West performers into discussion with Dr. Noel B. Ramirez, (Founder and Director of Mango Tree Counseling and Consulting), and Hannah Follman (Outpatient Therapist at Tranquil Solutions Counseling Center and member of the Asian Mental Health Collective). Moderated by Dr. Rujuta Mendelia of Mindful Group Practice and the Asian Mental Health Collective.

Panelists:

Dr. Noel B. Ramirez is the founder and director of Mango Tree Counseling & Consulting. He is a clinical social worker and has been working in community empowerment work in the Philly metro area since 2007. Outside of clinical social work, Dr. Ramirez is a clinical instructor for Columbia's University graduate social work program. He is the child of Filipino immigrants and was born and raised in Jersey City, NJ.

Hannah Follman, MSW, LSW, CAADC, is bringing transformative therapy to Downingtown. As an adoptee from China, she uses her identity and unique experience to enrich her approach to therapy. As an Asian-American in 2023, identity is difficult to define. Over the past four years, she’s worked with people of diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and ethnic minorities. She specializes in co-occurring mental health & substance use disorders. Hannah is driven to ignite resilience and growth for all who embark on the process of therapy.

Moderator:

Rujuta Mandelia is a mental health therapist and works with adolescents, women and LGBTQIA+ individuals struggling with identity, divorce, grief, and relationship issues in her private practice in Paoli, PA. Rujuta earned a Masters in Counseling Psychology and a Ph.D. in African American Studies from Temple University, and has a Certificate in Trauma Studies and Anxiety Disorders. She was Assistant Director and Assistant Professor of Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at Temple University.