Mental Health is mental wealth! Too much attention is focused on mental illness and not enough focused on our mental health. Evidence shows that good mental health supports good physical health, better immune function, healthier relationships, and overall life satisfaction. Too few of us dedicate enough time each day to our self care. Taking care of the basics such as: proper nutrition, exercise, good sleep hygiene and positive thinking all play into our well-being. Our thoughts and feelings, health habits, relationships, spirituality, careers, and leisure contribute to life satisfaction.

Dr. Lisa Saponaro, your local Clinical Psychologist, has been practicing in her hometown of Plantation, Florida. Dr. Saponaro utilizes the contemporary concepts of Positive Psychology as a main part of her treatment philosophy to effectively approach sources of suffering such a depression or anxiety. After 20 years in the field of psychology, she knows that reduction of suffering is only a small part of therapy. Helping people flourish and build their wellness tool box is really Dr. Saponaro’s passion. Dr. Saponaro undstands that relationships are a central part of our wellbeing and the therapeutic relationship is one that can be critical in helping a person resolve difficulties and uncover talents. Dr. Saponaro helps couples and individuals learn Active Constructive Responding to improve communication and lead to better relationships. She not only treats problems (mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, addiction, ADHD, divorce, etc.); she incorporates the building of positive emotions, utilization of signature strenghts, clarification of values and finding meaning to help people unlock their true potential. As a Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Saponaro strives to facilitate the tenants of Positive Psychology in her practice through education about core values and strengths. Traits such as compassion, perseverance, grit, gratitude and flow are cultivated helping people flourish and reach their goals. Dr. Saponaro provides expert guidance and supportive accountability for the individuals, couples and families that seek counseling services. She uses rigorous scientific data from the field of positive psychology to drive effective and dynamic treatments that can not only manage symptoms, but increase wellbeing and happiness. One of the best things about Positive Psychology exercises is they make us feel good – they are simple and even fun. This leads to consistent implementation of growth inducing and resilience building techniques and overall easy improvement in wellbeing. One of Dr. Saponaro’s favorite positive psychology exercises based in gratitude. Think about something very specific that you are thankful for today and give thanks to the person responsible. See what happens to your mood afterwards. Finally! Something that is addicting and good for us! Dr. Saponaro looks forward to getting all of Plantation, Florida hooked on Positive Psychology. Dr. Saponaro truly believes that there is not only a solution to depression, anxiety and suffering; but that the limits of resilience, growth and the potential for happiness are endless. At the Center for Psychological Growth and Wellness, our motto is We Nourish - You Flourish! South Florida, Come grow with us!

Mindfulness is about being intentionally grounded in the present moment, allowing yourself to manage one moment at a time, helping you place full attention to the here and now. Although the effects of mindfulness impact each person differently, for many, it allows them to address life stressors in a calmer, intentional way and improves their quality of life. For more information, click on the links below: The 7 Most Inspirational Mindfulness Ted Talks Psychology Today on Mindfulness Example scripts for mindfulness practice at the Center for Koru Mindfulness Our mindfulness group will teach participants mindfulness meditation techniques that can be particularly helpful in managing stress and anxiety. Group schedule and format Mindfulness group will run for 12 weeks. Groups will take place on Fridays from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm. First group to start on May 6th, 2016. Groups consist of a brief educational piece related to mindfulness, followed by discussion and practice of mindfulness skills. Connect with individuals who share your struggles, fears, and interests in these weekly group therapy sessions. Cost $45 each session, pay as you go $40 each session, pay for 4 sessions at a time $35 each session, pay for the full 12-session course. Contact Us Some insurance companies are accepted. Call us at (954) 577-0095 for more information about the groups.

Rana el Kaliouby: This app knows how you feel -- from the look on your face Martin Seligman: The new era of positive psychology Gratitude | Louie Schwartzberg | TEDxSF Ben Ambridge: 10 myths about psychology, debunked Dan Gilbert: The surprising science of happiness Jill Bolte Taylor: My stroke of insight VS Ramachandran: 3 clues to understanding your brain Brené Brown: The power of vulnerability Susan Cain: The power of introverts

Understanding our strengths and weaknesses is the first step toward making meaningful changes. Take a free screening below to identify your areas of growth.

The winter season can bring with it stress, sorrow, and anxiety. Instead of focusing on gifting and baking, take some time to focus on your personal mental health. Psychotherapy, also know as talk therapy can help people to overcome obstacles, gain insight into negative behavior and eliminate self defeating patterns in order to make positive changes for improved mental health. Complete the year with a greater sense of self-confidence and personal growth with Plantation counseling services. Plantation Florida Counselor As the days grow short, the weather becomes challenging, and stress builds, this time of year can leave many people feeling overwhelmed. Counseling can help clients to improve communication skills, relationships, and self-image. Dr. Lisa Saponaro, PhD. is a Plantation, FL Psychologist who helps people to enjoy more peaceful and balanced lives. She provides guidance, support, and expertise as her clients take this journey of self-discovery and personal goals. She serves clients from Plantation (33326, 33324, 33325) and the surrounding areas of Sunrise and Davie Florida. Couples and Family Counseling Plantation Dr. Saponaro is a licensed clinical psychologist that provides psychological testing, individual therapy, couples counseling in Plantation, family counseling, and group therapy. She has had great success in helping clients to overcome substance abuse, family issues, and relationship concerns. Dr. Lisa Saponaro, PhD. Performs counseling services from her private practice located off University Drive in Plantation Florida. Her office provides an understanding and supportive environment, where she is able to help her clients identify their strengths, overcome obstacles, and reach personal growth. ANXIETY AND STRESS TESTS Understanding our strengths and weaknesses is the first step toward making meaningful changes. Take a free screening below to identify your areas of growth. Mental Health Assessment Anxiety Test Depression Test What are your stress triggers? Coping and Stress Management Skills Test