MBIS Community Partner Spotlight: Prof. Darryl Aiken-Afam and Afam Consulting
As we mark the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, MBIS recognizes the continuing need for compassionate, accessible support for 9/11 survivors and others living with the long-term effects of trauma.
We are proud to highlight Prof. Darryl Aiken-Afam, MPS, CPT, of Afam Consulting, as an MBIS community partner. Drawing from his personal experience on the morning of September 11, 2001, Prof. Aiken-Afam is offering holistic wellness services at greatly reduced, sliding-scale rates to support survivors and their loved ones.
A Personal Connection to September 11
On September 11, 2001, Prof. Aiken-Afam traveled to Goldman Sachs at 10 Hanover Place in the Wall Street area to pick up his paycheck. At the time, he provided fitness and wellness services in the Wall Street community, including services for financial corporations in the area.
As he arrived after getting off the #3 train at Wall Street station, the first plane struck the North Tower. What followed became one of the most consequential and painful events in modern history. Twenty-five years later, the anniversary continues to carry a deeply personal meaning for him and has renewed attention on the needs of 9/11 survivors.
Holistic Wellness Support for 9/11 Survivors
In response to the ongoing needs of survivors, Afam Consulting is making its holistic wellness services available at greatly reduced sliding-scale rates, with savings of more than 50%.
For eligible survivors who have them, employee HSA and FSA accounts may be used to reimburse the cost of services. Individuals should confirm reimbursement eligibility and requirements with their plan administrator.
Addressing the Mind-Body Effects of Trauma
The services focus on the ways PTSD-related trauma and prolonged stress can affect both mental and physical well-being. Support may be relevant for people experiencing challenges such as:
- Anxiety and persistent stress
- Poor or disrupted sleep
- Chronic pain and physical tension
- Depression and emotional distress
- Nervous-system dysregulation
- Gastrointestinal and digestive concerns
- Disassociation and a sense of disconnect from the body
- Immune-system and inflammatory concerns
- Sleep-related and somatic memory issues
The goal is to help individuals reconnect with their bodies, develop greater awareness of stress responses, and explore supportive wellness practices in a compassionate setting.
Methods and Modalities
Afam Consulting incorporates Chinese medicine-based and somatic-based approaches. Depending on an individual’s needs and the services selected, methods of care may include:
- Mindful Movement and Bodywork
- Qigong
- Meridian Yoga
- Shiatsu
- Taoist Mindfulness Meditation
- Breath-work
- Wellness Coaching and Dialogue
- Other holistic wellness practices
Sessions can be conducted in person or remotely, providing flexibility for survivors and loved ones who may not be able to attend in person.
A Community Resource for Survivors and Families
Long-term recovery does not always follow a straight line. Years after a traumatic event, survivors may continue to experience physical, emotional, sleep-related, or stress-related challenges. Community-based wellness resources can provide an additional layer of support alongside appropriate medical and mental-health care.
MBIS is pleased to share this resource with our community as part of our commitment to connecting people with supportive services and trusted community partners.
If you or a loved one is a 9/11 survivor dealing with health issues connected to PTSD, trauma, or mental wellness, consider reaching out to Prof. Darryl Aiken-Afam and Afam Consulting for more information about available services.
Prof. Darryl Aiken-Afam, MPS, CPT
Afam Consulting
Email: afamconsultinggroup@gmail.com | Phone: (646) 342-1304
Community Partner Spotlight
Source: Community Partner post shared by Prof. Darryl Aiken-Afam / Afam Consulting. View the original Facebook post.
Know a 9/11 survivor who may benefit from this resource? Please share this information with them.
