Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts is where attendees are empowered to engage directly with knowledgeable professionals in the field. This interactive segment invites participants to traverse through a diverse array of subject areas.

The premise is simple yet effective: get your bingo card at check-in, festival-goers traverse the festival grounds, seeking out experts stationed at designated booths. With each encounter, attendees delve into discussions, posing questions, and absorbing invaluable advice and information. As they engage, their bingo cards are checked off.

The quest for knowledge and understanding unfolds amidst a backdrop of camaraderie and empowerment, as individuals gain insight from seasoned professionals. Whether grappling with personal challenges, seeking clarification on mental health topics, or simply curious to expand their understanding, participants find themselves immersed in a dynamic exchange of ideas and expertise.

Upon completing their bingo cards, attendees can return to the ICS hub, armed not only with newfound knowledge but also with a tangible reward—a prize that symbolizes their journey of exploration and growth. "Ask the Experts" transcends mere information-sharing; it embodies a collective commitment to fostering understanding, resilience, and support within our community, one conversation at a time.

Meet the Experts

  • Man smiling, wearing a patterned shirt, blue t-shirt, and necklace with cross pendant, against a textured background.

    Josh Roberts: Neuro Diversity

    Josh Roberts is a dynamic South-African-born expert working at the intersection of psychology, spirituality, and mental health. With a Master's in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary and a Bachelor's in Psychology from the University of South Africa, Josh seamlessly integrates psychological theory with profound spiritual insights. His unique educational background combined with his own lived experience of bipolar 1 has equipped him to address complex questions about existence, mental well-being, and the deeper purpose behind life's challenges. Josh's extensive practical experience spans nearly two decades, including roles as a Certified Peer Support Specialist, Neurofeedback Therapist, Behavioral Coach, and Public Speaker.

  • A man holding a book titled "The Cliffs of Schizophrenia" standing next to a woman holding a copy of Kirkus Reviews magazine, both smiling in front of a leafy background.

    Ingrid Alvarez-Ron and Sofia Sotres

    Ingrid Alvarez-Ron joined the NAMI Family-to-Family Spanish support group, then trained to facilitate support groups and finally became certified to teach the Family-to-Family class. With eight years of experience, she has worked in multiple programs and is currently the program manager for the Peer Training and Placement Program.

    Sofia Sotres is certified to teach the Family-to-Family Class with NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness). Her professional background includes more than seven years of community outreach, including case documentation and collaboration with the NAMI San Diego Family & Peer Support Helpline.

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    Interfaith Community Services Chaplains

    Interfaith Community Services has a chaplaincy program that assists in addressing the spiritual needs of the clients. Whole-person wellness is a key focus in providing social services and mental health support. While whole-person wellness typically focuses on the mind and body, there is also a component of spiritual wellness that our Chaplains work to support as they support individuals in building a foundation for their progress. Our chaplains represent a variety of religions and denominations in order to meet people wherever they may be spiritually and they are happy to engage in conversation about how spirituality can be used to support your mental health.

  • Zulma DiGaudio

    Dr. Zulma was born, raised and educated in Puerto Rico. During her residency in Puerto Rico. Zulma has a Doctorate in Psychology, she is Licensed in Family Therapy, Art Therapy and Play Therapy to treat her patients overwhelmed by emotional and psychological trauma. Zulma has served in the field of psychology for two decades (20 years). She is currently part of the Rady Children’s Hospital staff as Manager and Supervisor of the Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic in Escondido California. here