Meet your hosts
Henry Emmons, MD
Henry Emmons, MD is an integrative psychiatrist, author, and co-host of the Joy Lab Podcast. He is a recognized pioneer in the integrative mental health field, with a unique ability to blend neuroscience, mindfulness, and natural therapies to help people build resilience and rediscover joy. Dr. Emmons has authored several acclaimed books, including The Chemistry of Joy, The Chemistry of Joy Workbook, The Chemistry of Calm, and Staying Sharp. He has also developed nationally recognized programs such as the Resilience Training Program, A Year of Living Mindfully, and the Inner Life of Healers. Dr. Emmons has consulted with and served on the boards of diverse organizations that are pioneering more effective and holistic approaches to mental healthcare. He has helped thousands of people, many who have sought his care after feeling rejected and disempowered by medical systems that too often treat medication as the only path forward. Dr. Emmons is a highly-regarded speaker and educator who is dedicated to making holistic, evidence-based practices accessible so people can cultivate lasting resilience, deeper connections, and authentic joy.
Aimee Prasek, PhD
Aimee Prasek, PhD is an integrative mental health researcher, educator, and co-host of the Joy Lab Podcast. With a focus on blending evidence-based science and soulful insight, she is committed to developing mental health resources that don’t just reduce symptoms, but that foster resilience and joy. Dr. Prasek holds a PhD with a research focus in integrative mental health interventions, an MA in health communications, and an MA in holistic health studies. Much of her graduate work was spent at the University of Minnesota’s Center for Spirituality & Healing where she also served as a Dalai Lama Fellow. The global fellowship is personally authorized by the fourteenth Dalai Lama and cultivates leaders who integrate ethics, contemplative wisdom, and compassion into meaningful change. Her multidisciplinary training draws from mind-body practices and holistic health traditions, all informing her belief that mental health is less about “fixing” and more about uncovering and building on what is already whole and joyful. She lives in St. Paul, Minnesota with her husband, daughter, two rescue dogs, and many chickens.
Our story
We believe mental health is not about "fixing" ourselves. Instead, it's more about uncovering the goodness and joy within us. Sure, we've all got unhealthy patterns that can be tended to, and we can do that work. The irony though is that work is most effective when it's rooted in what nourishes us. That's why we do the work we do at Joy Lab and why we are so grateful you're here to join us in that work. Additionally, we're thrilled to merge Joy Lab with Pathways North on January 1st 2025. Pathways North is a 501(c)(3) that aims to move the needle upward for our global resilience and wellbeing. It's the perfect vessel to ensure our Joy Lab podcast and program stay accessible for all and continue growing their joyful impact.
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MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice and is not a replacement for advice and treatment from a medical professional. Consult your doctor or other qualified health professional before beginning any diet change, supplement, or lifestyle program. See our terms for more information.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET. OR text "HelpLine" to 62640 or email NAMI at [email protected]. Visit NAMI for more. You can also call or text SAMHSA at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
Joy Lab is powered by Pathways North 501(c)( 3).
