Access and Empathy: Navigating Mental Health Barriers

In this conversation, Lacy Simmons, a licensed psychotherapist, shares her journey into mental health, focusing on her work with the unhoused population in Los Angeles. She discusses the intersection of mental health and homelessness, the barriers individuals face in accessing services, and the importance of trauma-informed care. Lacy emphasizes the need for compassion, understanding, and the recognition of humanity in those experiencing homelessness. She also highlights the significance of boundaries in therapy and personal life, and the evolving landscape of mental health treatment, advocating for greater accessibility and inclusivity in mental health services.

Lacy Simmons is a licensed therapist and clinical social worker in Los Angeles, California. One of her professional areas of focus includes working to support the mental health and recovery of unhoused Angelenos as they transition from street homelessness into permanent supportive housing. Additionally, in Lacy's private practice she is known as "The Boundary Therapist" and works with adults on understanding the importance of establishing healthy boundaries in all aspects of their lives. Lacy uses multiple treatment modalities to address trauma recovery including EMDR.

Story Notes:

• Introduction to Lacy Simmons and Her Journey
• Addressing Homelessness and Mental Health
• Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Services
• Success Stories in Mental Health Support
• Seeing Humanity in the Unhoused
• Understanding Trauma-Informed Care
• The Importance of Boundaries
• Navigating Chronic Illness and Support
• Evolving Mental Health Landscape

To learn more about Lacy Simmons, visit:

Website: https://msha.ke/theboundarytherapist

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theboundarytherapist/

To learn more about the Social Brew, visit:

https://socialbrew.us/