Meet Crystal Miranda: Founder of The Healthy Mind Movement and Mental Health Professional

We had the good fortune of connecting with Crystal Miranda and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Crystal, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
The Healthy Mind Movement is a concept born from the idea that everyone deserves the knowledge to obtain a “healthy mind”. Mental health is one of the most stigmatized and neglected areas of public health, despite its widespread prevalence. Statistically, 1 in 5 adults in America experience a mental illness in any given year. But we ALL have mental health. Mental health struggles DO NOT discriminate, and we are all affected at some point – directly or indirectly. Our local community is no exception. Miami-Dade County is home to the largest percentage of people with Serious Mental Illnesses of any urban community in the United States. Roughly 9.1% of the population (more than 210,000) individuals experience a mental health condition, yet fewer than 13% of these individuals receive care. The county jail serves as the largest psychiatric facility in the state of Florida. My aim is to provide tools, insights, resources, inspiration, and evidence-based information using social media as a platform. I want to do my part in being the generation that ends mental health stigma and move toward becoming the generation that offers support, understanding, and the integration of mental health services into primary health care. The Healthy Mind Movement was not only created to educate on the struggles of the human condition, but also to encourage community immersion. The power of community is needed more than ever. We all need help and support every now and then. Life is really tough at times and we cannot and should not expect that we can do it all on our own. Sometimes we need a little guidance, a bit of advice, a helping hand, a doctor, a mentor, a friend – and that’s okay! The Healthy Mind Movement helps the community by being part of the change that this world desperately needs.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Since early in high school, I’ve known that I wanted to study psychology. I attended the University of Central Florida where I majored in psychology with a specialization in behavioral forensics. After graduating with my bachelor’s, I worked for the local police department as an analyst. I loved that experience, but I craved direct client interactions. I decided to go back to school and I began working on my master’s in clinical social work at Florida International University. In 2018, I began my doctoral program, and am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology. I now work as a clinical social worker in a correctional setting, providing inmates with individual and group therapy. However, throughout the course of my career, I have worked with various populations including homeless, victims of domestic violence, foster youth, LGBTQI, geriatrics, and palliative care. My fascination with the human mind wasn’t the only thing that led me to where I am professionally. My own personal struggles with mental health and the difficulties of the human experience is what continued to fuel my passion along the way. It has definitely NOT been an easy road. But the moment that I realized that we’re all struggling in our own unique way, my dedication to help others solidified. My brand and organization, The Healthy Mind Movement, is for all of us.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This city is full of pretty awesome spots! But my favorite place to be is the beach. It’s my happy place. Whether it’s to just lay out in the sun, go skating, or biking, the beach is usually something I always suggest when my friends and family come to town. As far as where to eat and drink, you can’t go wrong with Wynwood. There are so many diverse and fun places to pick from. I love activities, so I would also maybe take them kayaking at Oleta State Park, to check out the new exhibits at the Frost Museum, or go brewery hopping. The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! My shoutout goes out to every single person that has supported me along the way. Since starting The Healthy Mind Movement a little over a year ago, I have received an overwhelming amount of unconditional support, encouragement, and love from so many people. The Healthy Mind Movement is my baby, and I am filled with gratitude for everyone that has supported my passion along the way. I wouldn’t be doing what I love without every like, comment, post share, DM, or event participation. I have to give an extra special shoutout to Starts Here Health for their mentorship and to Margate Barbell and The Battle Axe Gym who without their help and support, The Healthy Mind Movement events wouldn’t have been possible. Thank you ALL!

Website: thehealthymindmovement.org

Instagram: thehealthymindmovement

Facebook: The Healthy Mind Movement