Wellness Wave Wisdom

  By Jacob Maldonado Jacob is a graduate student at San Diego State University, obtaining a Master's in Multicultural Counseling through the CBB program and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in LGBTQ+ Studies. Born and raised in San Diego, he received his Bachelor's in Psychology with minors in Queer Studies, Counseling, and Social Change, at SDSU. He is particularly interested in working in community mental health, specifically with individuals belonging to historically marginalized communities. What is Substance Use? While many relate substance use to addiction, recognizing the distinction is crucial for one’s approach to their health. Substance Use (Disorder) is a clinical diagnosis that covers a wide range of difficulties experienced by individuals who use substances. Addiction can describe a range of behavior/emotions individuals may experience in the context of their environment, with physical, emotional, or mental difficulties stemming from the addiction. The distinction...

By Natasha Jackson Natasha has worked in the mental health field for the past ten years, with experience in both residential and outpatient settings, treating adolescents, adults, families, and couples. As a Black Therapist, she sees the value of representation in the mental health field, and finds unique opportunities to support her clients who can often feel misunderstood by therapists who may not share this aspect of their identity. Natasha is also passionate about working with members of the following communities: body positivity, LGBTQ+, racial justice, military spouses, and single mothers. 1. “It Only Happens to Certain People” There’s a myth that DV/IPV only affects specific groups, such as those from lower-income backgrounds or specific communities. In reality, DV/IPV cuts across all demographics—race, gender, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and cultural backgrounds. Wealth or status may simply shield the abuse from public view. 2. “It’s Just Physical Violence” Some m...