Beyond the Couch
Beyond the Couch is a podcast exploring the intersection of Asian Pacific Islander South Asian American (APISA) identity and mental health. Hosted by three therapists, Diana Liao, LMHC, Samantha Waldman, LMHC, and Christie Kim, LMHC, our mission is to demystify therapy and uplift stories from our community. Join us every Wednesday as we delve into essential topics from identity and perfectionism to courageous stories of healing and collective care with fellow therapists, experts, and community members.
Beyond the Couch is a proud initiative of Bridges Mental Health, is a stigma-free hub for Asians, Pacific Islanders, and South Asian Americans (APISA) to discuss, navigate, and seek mental health care. Find a therapist, join our therapist community, and follow us on Instagram @bridgesmentalhealth.
Beyond the Couch
Finding Your Ikigai: A Healing Journey with Anna Li
This week, Diana chats with Anna, the visionary behind Healing Journey Retreats, who shares her powerful mental health journey and the transformative steps she took to reclaim her sense of purpose. Anna opens up about her experience being laid off from a high-stress tech job, struggling with toxic workplace environments, and feeling disconnected from her true calling. As a Chinese Canadian, she also touches on the pressure of security, the scarcity mindset, and how she took a leap of faith to prioritize her mental well-being. Anna discusses how travel exposed her to alternative ways of living and entrepreneurship, igniting her passion for creating retreats focused on mental wellness. From navigating stigma around mental health to opening up conversations with her parents about her struggles, Anna offers heartfelt advice and creative tips for others looking to do the same.
Introducing Anna (she/her), the passionate visionary behind Healing Journey Retreats. With a decade of experience in the tech industry, she knows firsthand the pressures and challenges that can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression. Her own journey of mental health recovery led her to a transformative path. Seeking solace in travel, Airbnb hosting, therapy, yoga, and art, these became her steadfast companions through the ups and downs of life. It was a three-month sojourn in the tropical paradise of Tulum, Mexico, that acted as a powerful catalyst. The sun, the ocean, the vibrant culture, and the enriching experiences there breathed new life into her body and mind, significantly shortening her battle with depression.
This transformative experience prompted Anna to channel her personal healing journey into a 7-night retreat experience, envisioned to guide others toward healing and self-discovery, just as it had for her. Her mission is to provide a safe space for individuals to rejuvenate, find inner balance, and discover the transformative power of mindfulness and neuroscience. Connect with Anna on Instagram @healingjourneyretreats and anna@thehealingjourneyretreats.com
Bridges Mental Health connects Asian, Pacific Islander, South Asian Americans (APISA) with culturally responsive mental health professionals and resources. We hope to make mental health care more accessible and approachable across the Asian diaspora.
Find a Therapist
Join our Clinician Community
Write to us with comments & questions, we'd love to hear from you.
@bridgesmentalhealth
bridgesmentalhealthnyc@gmail.com
buymeacoffee.com/bridgesmh