You may be curious about the elephant symbolism that you’ve seen on our website and in our office. Our business of mental wellness is a hard thing to represent visually. We cringe when we see images of a sad face or broken mirror. Those are one-dimensional representations and limit the perception of what it means to have mental illness or substance abuse issues. This type of imagery adds to the stigma that we actively try to combat. There had to be a better way of telling our story through imagery.
One of our owners has always loved elephants and unconsciously gravitated toward using elephant art throughout his home. As we researched elephant symbolism we found it to be such a good fit, that we decided immediately that the elephant would be our “mascot” for lack of a better word. Some of the things we learned about elephants that inspired us are as follows.
Elephants are among the most intelligent creatures with whom we share the planet. The The Mind Store team strives to use intelligent and strategic approaches to our treatment of patients to create meaningful change in their lives as soon as possible.
Elephants have a complex brain that is capable of advanced learning, strong emotions, and familial loyalty. Families are a critical part of the treatments we perform, because we recognize how mental illness and substance abuse are a weight on loved ones in addition to the afflicted individual.
Elephants have a long memory and use their experience to help themselves and their families survive. We hope that the strategies and lessons we share patients will resonate and stay in the forefront of their memories, which will help them survive, thrive, and live more fulfilled lives long into the future.
Elephants are a powerful role model for spiritually, because they are bound to their family, they are gentle yet powerful, and they are unstoppable once set on a path. Our connection to a higher power, whether through prayer, medication, or nature can serve as inspiration to continue down the path toward healing.
Elephants symbolize loyalty and remind us to remain loyal in spite of difficult circumstances. By remaining loyal to our medical philosophies, staff, and patients, we deliver on our promise that “you are not alone in your feelings.” You can reply on The Mind Store to help you through difficult times.
– A.V.
"I greatly enjoy what I am learning in CBT group and I really like that Dr. Park does therapy along with psychiatry. It makes so much sense to me and fully encompasses my needs much more than writing me a script and sending me on my way. Dr. Park uses great examples and humor in group. Thanks"