The City of Chandler’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Division, together with the ARISE Alliance Institute, will again offer the Building Better Mental Health series to local residents. The initiative includes two free sessions led by licensed clinical social worker Estefana Johnson, who aims to provide practical tools for mental wellbeing.
The first session is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, and will focus on understanding stress responses and regulating the nervous system. The second session will be held on Tuesday, September 23, covering strategies for setting boundaries and building strength within the community. Both workshops will run from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Downtown Chandler Library located at 22 S. Delaware St.
Adrianna Erickson, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Program Coordinator for the City of Chandler, said, “Our hope with this series is to create a welcoming space where community members can learn simple, everyday tools to care for their mental health. We want people to walk away feeling supported, connected and empowered.”
Estefana Johnson brings over two decades of experience in behavioral health and specializes in trauma treatment and memory reconsolidation techniques. She co-developed Critical Memory Integration (CMI) as part of her work with Arise Alliance and currently leads clinical training efforts for CMI nationwide. Johnson also practices at Lighthouse Psychiatry and TMS and serves as Clinical Director for ASA Now, a nonprofit that supports foster and adoptive youth.
“Growing up Hispanic, therapy wasn’t an option. I know the stigma, and I understand the need. That’s what drives my passion to normalize human struggles and make support accessible to everyone by bringing mental health tools straight to the community,” Johnson said.
No registration is required for these sessions; seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. More information about the Building Better Mental Health series can be found on the city’s Mental Health page.
