By: Lake Forest Staff
Taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health, yet it’s often overlooked. That’s why we are excited to introduce the Mental Health Awareness Lecture Series at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Health & Fitness Center. This series will feature expert speakers from various fields of mental health who will share valuable insights on understanding and managing mental health challenges.
Each session will focus on different aspects of mental health, from grief and loss to brain health and emotional well-being. Our goal is to provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to improve your mental health and lead a balanced life. If you’re looking to gain a deeper understanding of grief, explore the latest research on brain health, or find ways to connect more authentically with yourself and others, this lecture series offers something for everyone.
Presenter: Ron Migalski, LCSW
Topic: Behavorial Health and Physical Activity
Ron Migalski, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Supervisor who has more than 25 years of valuable experience in behavioral health. Throughout his career, he has held various leadership roles in the non-profit sector, healthcare and for-profit organizations. Ron believes that connection, authenticity, courage and comfort are essential for starting a successful therapy journey. He understands that each individual seeking help comes from a unique background and has different goals in mind, but they often share a common destination: healing. As a psychotherapist, Ron focuses on creating a safe and welcoming space for his clients, guiding them as they take their first steps on the path to recovery. With his extensive experience and compassionate approach, Ron is dedicated to supporting those in need and helping them achieve their personal goals in therapy.
Presenter: Dr. Jana Wingo, Neuropsychologist
Topic: Brain Health and Cognitive Wellness
Dr. Wingo, a neuropsychologist and licensed clinical psychologist in Illinois, provides neuropsychological evaluations for adults. Specific clinical interests include neurodegenerative diseases, traumatic brain injury, brain tumors, epilepsy, stroke and psychiatric disorders. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she earned her doctorate from Loyola University Chicago focusing her research on traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer’s disease and electrical injury. Upon completion of her pre-doctoral internship at the University of Chicago, she spent two years at the Medical College of Wisconsin completing a neuropsychology fellowship. In 2015, she started working in the Neurobehavior and Memory Clinic of the Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology & Alzheimer’s Disease at Northwestern University.
Presenter: Kathryn Krzykala, LCSW
Topic: Death, Grief and Loss: Emotional, Psychological and Physical Connection
Throughout our lives, we face many types of loss that can bring us grief and sadness. This can include the death of a loved one or a beloved pet, the pain of a divorce, losing a job, or ending a friendship. We may also grieve when our children move out, when we don’t have children, or when we watch our dreams slip away. As we age, we face the reality of our own mortality which can be daunting. In grief therapy, we explore both helpful and unhelpful emotions, thoughts and behaviors. Through this process, we seek to find our purpose and meaning, and we search for answers to life’s difficult questions.
Kathryn Krzykala, L.C.S.W., a psychotherapist, specializes in grief and loss, as well as trauma, anxiety and depression. With certification in EMDR and as a Grief Counselor Specialist, she incorporates Mindful Self-Compassion into her practice to help individuals navigate their grief effectively.
Don’t miss these insightful lectures—join us for a deeper understanding of mental health and well-being.
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