Psychologist Doc Ana

17/08/2025

✨ One of those rare moments where I pause, take it all in, and realize—this isn’t a dream.

What an incredible honor and blessing it has been to be invited as one of the Learning Facilitators at Doun Kisen, a distinguished Japanese shipowner and operator known for its fleet of over 100 bulk carriers, including kamsarmax, ultramax, and handysize vessels.

I had the privilege of engaging with a remarkable group of professionals—Ship Captains, Chief Engineers, and other maritime leaders—on a topic that lies close to my heart: mental health and well-being of seafarers.

Mental health remains a significant yet often under-discussed concern in the maritime industry. I shared my passionate advocacy focused on:
• Self-care practices
• Help-seeking behavior
• Preparing for life’s inevitables such as health challenges, retirement, and other transitions that can deeply affect our well-being.

It was both humbling and fulfilling to open up this dialogue with those who shoulder so much responsibility at sea. Together, we reflected, learned, and hopefully took a few steps forward toward a more compassionate and resilient maritime community.

💬 My heartfelt salutation and gratitude goes to:
• Capt. Makoto Maeda – Senior General Manager
• Capt. Danilo Lulo – Deputy Marine Manager
• CE Meldwin Moral – Technical Superintendent

This opportunity was made possible through the generous support of my classmate, Capt. ML De Lara, and Sir Nico Apilado—thank you for the trust and confidence.

Thank you, Doun Kisen, more power!

*Oh by the way, I can also travel to Japan or any parts of the World 😉😄

04/08/2025

𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐞.

Take that brave step.

It can just be a call away! 💪

28/07/2025

Nothing is coincidence.

Every soul you meet is written in your destiny to teach you, to heal you, or to love you.

Nothing and no one arrives by accident. Even the heartbreaks come with hidden lessons wrapped in pain. Some souls are just passing through, meant only to spark the next version of you. Others stay, gently unfolding parts of you that you didn't know existed. In the grand tapestry of life, every thread every soul is part of your becoming.

Becoming isn’t about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. Instead, it's a mean of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self 💕

18/07/2025

🌱 Day One or One Day? You Decide.

We’ve all said it before:

🗣️ “One day I’ll start journaling.”
🗣️ “One day I’ll leave this toxic cycle.”
🗣️ “One day I’ll prioritize my mental health.”

But here’s the truth — “One day” often becomes “No day.”

Change doesn’t wait for the perfect timing. Growth doesn’t happen by accident. Healing? It begins with a choice.

Today is hard. You might not feel ready. But what if you took one small step — not to have it all figured out — but just to begin?

🌟 Let today be DAY ONE.
One breath.
One boundary.
One brave decision.

You don’t need to feel ready to take the first step — just willing.

💬 The difference between “One Day” and “Day One” is just one decision. Make it yours.

14/07/2025

I often bring this up during the Human Bingo activity — and it always leads to a conversation about perspective. Truth is, there’s usually a reason behind someone being perceived as “Bida-Bida.” And sometimes, it’s not a bad thing.

Just be mindful of these three things:

> Your Tone of Voice
> How You Say It
> Your True Intention

Personally, I believe there’s nothing wrong with being a “Bida-Bida” — as long as it’s done the right way. And always remember: the audience impact? That’s just 10%! 😄 The other 90%? That goes to your performance, your attitude, and your aspirations. 💪😉

Calling someone “bida-bida” when they’re just being active or enthusiastic often reflects more about the person saying it than the one being labeled. Here’s why it can be problematic:

1. Discourages Initiative
When someone is eager to help, participate, or go the extra mile and gets labeled “bida-bida”, it discourages others from being proactive, especially in school or work settings. People start thinking: “Ay, baka matawag akong bida-bida.” So they hold back, even if they have something valuable to contribute.

2. It’s Often Rooted in Insecurity or Envy
Sometimes, people feel threatened or insecure seeing others shine. Instead of appreciating someone’s drive, they label it negatively to bring them down to their level.

3. It Can Foster a Toxic Culture
A group that mocks or alienates active members develops a culture where mediocrity is normalized and excellence is ridiculed.

4. It Mislabels Confidence or Leadership
What others may see as “bida-bida” might actually be: Confidence, Leadership, Passion, Responsibility. Yet people throw the term like it’s an insult, when in fact those traits are crucial in teams, classrooms, and communities.

Better Perspective:
Instead of saying “bida-bida”, we should be asking: “How can I support or learn from this person’s energy or commitment?” Encouraging others to lead, volunteer, or speak up creates a more empowering environment for everyone.

If someone’s “bida-bida” behavior is genuinely inconsiderate or dominating, there are kinder and more constructive ways to give feedback. But most of the time? People just don’t like seeing someone stand out. Let people shine. Their glow doesn’t dim yours. 😊💕

11/07/2025

Making Your Own Decisions as A Way Of Life

Kevin Hart once said, “Your life today is the sum total of your choices. So, if you’re not happy with it, look back at your choices and start making different ones.”

Making your own decisions is the key to personal freedom and taking complete personal responsibility for yourself is, in fact, the most important thing you can do when making life-changing decisions.

When making any decisions, some may seem small and inconsequential, while others will be life-altering and influence the path of your life in various ways.

Regardless, the trial and error is what allows us to make better choices for ourselves and others as we grow into more mature individuals.

https://www.1vibrantlife.com/making-your-own-decisions/

10/07/2025

FIND YOUR IKIGAI

07/07/2025

"We can't help everyone, but everyone can help someone."

Though mental health professionals may be few, we continue to offer what we can, with compassion and care. It is both a privilege and a blessing to be entrusted with someone’s life story. I’m grateful to have partnered with like-minded individuals who share the same purpose and heart.

I'm thankful to be partnered with like-minded individuals who are driven by the same purpose.

is here for you :-*

Talking to one client can already be very tiring. Two in a day is just right for me.

Psychotherapy is not just a simple talk, it's a heart to heart talk between two people, where both open up, feel weak, but also start to heal.

I pray for more mental health advocates who will help close the big gap in mental health care.

We need more kind hearts, listening ears, and helping hands. 💚

Ctto: Espada Psychological Consultancy

05/07/2025

I thank God for making me an instrument to take care others ♥️

Psychologists are licensed health professionals authorized to provide mental health services under Philippine law.

• Licensed to Diagnose and Treat
Under the Psychology Act (RA 10029), only registered psychologists may legally conduct psychological evaluations, diagnose mental health conditions, provide therapy, and issue official diagnostic or fitness certificates.

•Provide Evidence-Based Treatment and Referrals
Psychologists are required to deliver scientifically validated interventions such as therapy, behavior modification, and rehabilitation. They may also refer clients to psychiatrists or medical professionals for medication and further care.

•Practice Health Psychology and Behavioral Interventions
RA 10029 includes behavioral intervention and psychological consultation within the scope of practice. Psychologists can help clients manage stress, quit smoking, improve sleep, increase physical activity, and adopt healthier lifestyles. These interventions support both mental and physical well-being and may be applied in clinics, schools, workplaces, or hospitals.

•Recommend Leave of Absence or Immediate Resignation
The Mental Health Act (RA 11036) allows psychologists to recommend leave of absence or immediate resignation if the individual’s mental health condition impairs functioning or puts the individual at risk. This may justify waiving standard notice periods in employment settings.

•Issue Certificates and Written Recommendations
Psychologists may issue clinical certificates such as mental fitness for employment, study, or legal purposes. They can also provide written recommendations for accommodations, adjustments, or after-care based on their clinical judgment.

•Facilitate Involuntary Admission and Safeguards
Psychologists are allowed to assess and recommend involuntary psychiatric admission in cases of danger to self or others. This is permitted under RA 11036 and must follow proper legal safeguards to protect patient rights.

•Maintain Confidentiality with Duty to Warn
RA 10029 protects privileged communication. However, psychologists are ethically and legally required to disclose information if the client presents serious and imminent danger to self or others.

•Engage in Policy, Education, and Professional Development
RA 10029 and RA 11036 mandate psychologists to participate in continuing education, service development, and mental health advocacy in institutions, communities, and workplaces.

Their legal authority to diagnose, treat, and safeguard mental well-being affirms that psychologists are essential health workers who deserve full recognition and respect. 🌙🪷

28/06/2025

Mental Health First Aid training at the University of Antique 💕

Mental health first aid training equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to someone developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis.

No one should feel alone on their journey.