Alumna Uses Social Media to Break Stigma

Chances are you’ve heard of TikTok, the social media platform that grew in popularity thanks to short videos of dancing, singing, and lip syncing.

Chances are you’ve heard of TikTok, the social media platform that grew in popularity thanks to short videos of dancing, singing, and lip syncing.

Since its launch, the platform has become much more. Users can find cooking tutorials, comedy, musical performances, and professionals in all fields sharing tips, strategies, and life hacks. And, in the case of Jaime Mahler ’17 (M.S.), mental health guidance.

Mahler, a licensed mental health therapist, was enjoying TikTok as a source of entertainment, scrolling through others’ posts, when she had a revelation. “I realized quickly TikTok is not a bunch of preteens dancing, but has evolved into a hub for people to share ideas and inspire personal growth,” she says.

As it turns out, it was the perfect platform to do what she’s dedicated her life to doing—helping people. She switched gears from posting funny videos of her three children to offering her knowledge and experience.

“I share therapy skills and tips,” she says. “I share psychology facts and fun peeks into a therapist’s life. I share personal insights and hardships.”

Since joining TikTok as @:recollectedself, Mahler has seen her profile grow to have more than 600,000 followers, and has begun collaborating with companies such as BetterHelp, The Coldest Water, and Touchpoint Solutions. “The growth has been phenomenal and speaks to how many people want this information,” she says.

“My aim is to bash the stigma surrounding mental health in a relatable, funny, and inspiring way. I’ve had people reach out and tell me that my posts have inspired them to book their first therapy appointment.”

Mahler, who is also working on a self-awareness guidebook, hopes this is just the beginning of helping more people. “I will be launching personal development workshops and a podcast. TikTok is just one way in which I help educate people,” she says.