Gina Balit, MA, LMFT, ATR

03/09/2024

Did you watch “Vardavar!,” Disney’s episode centered on the traditional Armenian festival, Vardavar?

The episode of MICKEY MOUSE FUNHOUSE premiered on the Disney Channel and is written by Kathleen Sarnelli Kapukchyan, whose husband is Armenian.

In the episode, Minnie Mouse wears the wrong outfit to celebrate Vardavar. Minnie, Mickey, and their friends are greeted by the goddess Astghik who wears a traditional Armenian Taraz, as she comes down from her magical temple and splashes them with water! The episode is set in the Land of Myth and Legend, which is modeled after Armenian architecture– notably Garni and Cascade, creating an amalgamation of the two sites. The character of Astghik is voiced by Liana Bdéwi, who is of Armenian heritage.

The episode is filled with cultural references– Minnie wears an Armenian Taraz, Armenian is spoken throughout the episode, and we even catch a glimpse of Chip and Dale selling tahn and making khorovats.

The episode marks the first-ever representation of Armenian culture at Disney.

“Vardavar!’’ is available on DisneyNow.com and in the DisneyNow app, and will be available on Disney+ at a later date.

03/09/2024

03/09/2024

Mattel’s Barbie brand just launched its first mental health career—and they chose to show Barbie as an art therapist! AATA hopes Art Therapy Barbie will give parents and caregivers an opportunity to talk about mental health with kids and explore the power of art-making in wellness.

02/08/2024

So honored to have received this award! I completed my year as President of our wonderful chapter. Forever grateful for the impact it's had on my professional journey. 🙏

01/22/2024

Since 2019, we have been recognizing one chapter member each month on social media for their service as a volunteer. This month we celebrate Gina Balit, LMFT, ATR!
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Gina is now Past President on our board as has been the Advertising Chair for many years. She was known as VP of Marketing for 6 years and last year was honored to complete her presidency. She is a Registered Art Therapist and SoulCollage®️ facilitator. She works with young children of divorce and abuse in her Woodland Hills private practice. She is also passionate about helping her Armenian community and doing freelance designing and bookkeeping on the side. Visit her website to find out more: www.theartofmft.com. Thank you Gina!

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For a full list of our volunteers (board members, special interest group chairs, committee chairs, etc), visit our website www.sfvcamft.org.
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