Stephanie Hernandez, LPC Introduction: After the long, dark winter months in Chicago, many of us feel the lingering effects of post-winter blues. The cold, cloudy days can take a toll on our mental well-being, leaving us drained and disconnected. But as spring arrives, it brings with it a fresh start, offering a chance for renewal, balance, and personal growth. At …

By: Stephanie Hernandez, LPC  Writer’s Note:If you’re reading this and feeling overwhelmed by the uncertainty of the immigration process, I want you to know that you are not alone. The stress, fear, and anxiety that accompany immigration policies and legal battles are very real, and they can take a toll on your mental health. At Gemstone Wellness, we see this every …

Stephanie Hernandez, LPCAt Gemstone Wellness, we want to acknowledge the heaviness of the world. We are being bombarded with uncertainty, division, and unrest quickly, and it can feel like there’s no escape. As therapists and humans trying to navigate such times, we also understand how overwhelming this must be. I want to remind you that during these times of uncertainty, you …

Stephanie Hernandez, LPC  Note: Happy New Year from all of us at Gemstone Wellness! We hope this new year brings you an abundance of warmth, joy, and magic. As we step into 2025, we want to thank you for being a part of our community. We’re excited to continue supporting you on your journey toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. Here’s to …

Stephanie Hernandez, LPC Introduction: The holidays are here, and so is the chaos—packed schedules, family drama, and that never-ending list of things to do. It’s like a festive version of running a marathon, but instead of water stations, there are cookie platters. In addition to still working and waiting for the weekend, what if you gave yourself time to slow down …

Title: A Guide to Navigating Political and Cultural Conversations: Surviving the Family Dinner Table Stephanie Hernandez, LPC A Thought For Our Readers:  As we approach another season of family gatherings and the holiday season, there’s a collective sense of pause, holding our breath and wondering what potentially could come next, especially in a time where there can be political and …

Collective anxiety, science behind turbulent times, existentialism, practical strategies, community  By Stephanie Hernandez, LPC  “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” — Viktor Frankl Introduction: There’s a notable shift in the air—our daily routines noticeably suppress the underlying unpredictability and collective anxiety. In our current world, it often feels like chaos reigns supreme. …