2025 - “A Path to Physical Well-Being for Lawyers”

Panelists:

Josie Coyoc, CHHC

Defne Ekin, PhD

The physical demands of the legal profession often go unnoticed—long hours seated at a desk, chronic screen time, disrupted sleep, and mounting tension. Over time, the body pays a price. But what if the antidote isn’t a drastic lifestyle change, but simply a few intentional minutes outdoors? This session explores the growing body of research linking time in nature to measurable improvements in physical health—reduced stress hormones, better sleep, improved cardiovascular function, and more. Discover practical ways to weave nature into even the busiest legal schedule—your body will thank you for it!

moderator: Defne Ekin, PhD, NJLAP Team Clinician

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2025 - “The Intersection of Purpose & Spirituality”

Speakers:

Cedric Ashley, JD, ACC, Catalyzer

“Finding Meaning & Inner Balance in the Legal Profession”

Join Cedric as he explores the importance of spiritual well-being within the legal field. He will share insights on how purpose, values, and inner connection contribute to overall health and success in the profession. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on nurturing their spiritual well-being.

Jim Greene, MA

“Finding H.O.P.E — Holding On, Possibilities Exist”

In this uplifting and deeply personal presentation, Jim Greene, M.A., shares his journey from adversity to healing, offering insight into the power of resilience and spiritual well-being. Drawing from his own experiences with depression, addiction, and transformation, Jim illustrates how hope can be a guiding force even in life’s darkest moments. Through storytelling and reflection, he encourages others to hold on and believe that possibilities always exist. This talk is a reminder that healing is not only possible, it’s within reach.

Moderator:   James Burke, BA, NJLAP Program Assistant/Resource Coordinator

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2025 - “Occupational Well-Being & Time Management”

Panelists:

The Hon. John M. Doran, J.S.C.

David J. Bruno, Esq. - Attorney Wellness Speaker

Moderator: Nicole Perskie, NJLAP Administrative Director

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2025 - “The Role of Social Connection in a Thriving Legal Career”

Speaker:

Eric Rodriguez

Social connection is an important part of fostering well-being among legal professional, Helping to reduce the high levels of stress, burnout, and mental health challenges prevalent in the legal field. Prioritizing social connection is not just beneficial for individual well-being but also leads to a more sustainable and successful legal career.

Key points include:

The Impact of Isolation

Benefits of Social Connection:

Strategies for Building Connection

Organizational Responsibility

space

Moderator: Eric Salzman, Esq., NJLAP Attorney Counselor

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2025 - “What’s Fear & Joy Got to Do With It?”

Emotions & How They Affect Resilience

Speakers:

Jennifer Mohamed, Esq.

“Facing Fear: Cultivating Emotional Resilience As A Pathway to Success”

Fear is a powerful emotion that can significantly impact our thoughts, behaviors and overall well-being. This presentation focuses on solutions to three issues that affect lawyer well-being.

Kara Perry, JD

“Joy Management: Finding Moments of Joy Between Coffee & Chaos”

Let’s experience a jolt of joy! Learn how the legal profession can lighten up with mindfulness, and an open attitude to unlock that inner joy. Stress management is so 2024 - this year, focus on joy management!

Noreen Braman, CLWI, CLYL

“Joy is My Watchword - What’s Yours?”

Why have a personal watchword? Here’s one way Merriam-Webster describes it :a word or motto that embodies a principle or guide to action of an individual or group, also, : a guiding principle

Moderator: Noreen Braman, NJLAP Communications Manager

Get a head start on your Emotional Wellness - “check out” this checklist from the National Institutes of Health

Recorded Version Premieres on May 9, 2025 at 2 PM

• Speaker Bios•