Meet POPSUGAR's Mental Health Advisory Board
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Mental health has officially stepped out of the shadows and into the spotlight. Most people know that the mind plays a key role in overall well-being, and today, we're not afraid to talk about it. Everyone from celebrities to athletes to more local role models speak candidly and frankly about their own mental health journeys, and that example encourages the rest of us to do the same.
More adults are seeking out treatment for mental health, according to 2022 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And Google's 2022 Year in Search report showed that people are increasingly searching for information about how to handle difficult emotions like anxiety and depression and where to find mental health podcasts and books.
So to commemorate Mental Health Awareness Month this year, POPSUGAR is striving to celebrate all the ways we take care of our mental well-being, big and small — from going to therapy (or taking time off therapy) to unwinding in front of the TV with friends.
We're also committed, as always, to providing accurate and useful information about mental health topics and resources. As part of that mission, we're launching a mental health advisory board of trusted therapists and psychologists who we can rely on for up-to-date information and inspiration. Swipe through to meet our experts.*
*POPSUGAR content does not serve as medical advice. You should always consult your doctor regarding your health and before starting any course of medical treatment.
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Aliza Shapiro, LCSW
Aliza Shapiro, LCSW, is a licensed psychotherapist in New York City and founder of Therapy in the City, LCSW PLLC. In her clinical work, Shapiro helps adults, young adults, and adolescents overcome a wide array of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, OCD, emotion dysregulation, and related disorders.
Prior to starting her practice, Shapiro completed her degree at the Silberman School of Social Work, where she studied health and mental health, with a focus on neurobiology and the treatment of mental health disorders. Shapiro continued her clinical training and studied cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) under the direct guidance of Harvard professor Dr. David Rosmarin and psychiatrist Dr. Charles Swenson, respectively.
In addition to her clinical work, Shapiro studied leadership and management at The Wharton School of Business. Prior to opening her practice, she served as the VP of people and culture at the Center for Anxiety. Shapiro currently serves as a consultant and board member of Teen Health 101.
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Lynn Saladino, PsyD
Lynn Saladino, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist based in New York City. Her private practice, Dr. Lynn Psychology, PLLC, has brought a holistic and practical approach to mental wellness for the New York City and Boston communities for almost 15 years.
As psychology editor of Health magazine and author of its mental health column, "Let's Talk It Out," she offered an approachable perspective to mental health concerns. Her work has included features in Oprah Daily, NBC, and Business Insider. Dr. Lynn is on a mission to make mental health straight-forward and fun whenever possible. She's excited for the opportunity to bring this to the POPSUGAR community.
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Israa Nasir, MHC-LP
Israa Nasir, MHC-LP, is a psychotherapist, speaker, and founder of the digital mental health brand WellGuide. Nasir curates meaningful experiences through therapy, workshops, engaging creative content, and speaking engagements to further amplify the message of emotional wellness and personal growth. Her work is focused on transforming the way we talk about mental health, taking it from a place of shame to a place of empowerment, with a specific focus on identity formation and healing for the AAPI immigrant (first and second generation) experience.
Her previous clients include, but are not limited to, Columbia University, the NYPD, Mental Health America, Pepsi Co., Ernst & Young, Meta, and Yale University. Nasir holds a master's in mental health counseling from The Derner Institute, NY. She currently lives in New York City and is working on her debut book, scheduled to be published in 2024, on toxic productivity.
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Alyssa Mancao, LCSW
Alyssa Mancao, LCSW, is a licensed psychotherapist and group practice owner in Los Angeles. With more than a decade of experience, she helps clients understand how their thoughts and experiences impact self-perception and relationships. In addition to her work as a therapist, she also conducts corporate wellness workshops on managing conflict, burnout, and stress.