Discovering Healing Through Sound: 2 Turntables’ Innovative Approach to Mental Health
Native 412 is excited to highlight and bring attention to those making a real impact in our community. In this segment, we focus on Health and Wellness (one of 8 facets representing Native 412’s core values).
Meet Paul Phuong Dang, a passionate professional dedicated to transforming the landscape of mental health treatment by merging his love for music with therapeutic practices.
In today's world marked by uncertainty and fear, and amidst a scarcity of accessible mental health resources, Paul is on a mission to revolutionize perceptions of therapy. “2 Turntables” is unlike any program currently available, integrating his two and a half decades as a professional DJ and his 11 years as a licensed therapist. This innovative approach addresses mental health issues in a way that is both engaging and relatable, encouraging those who might feel disconnected from traditional therapy to seek support.
His journey began nearly 12 years ago during his graduate studies in Counseling Psychology at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he was born and raised. At that pivotal moment, Paul faced a crucial decision: Should he pursue a professional career as a DJ, drawing from almost over 20 years of experience, or follow the academic path of counseling psychology?
It was during a Play Therapy course that Paul had a groundbreaking realization. He understood that music could serve as a powerful therapeutic tool, revealing that his career paths were not separate but intricately intertwined. This epiphany led to the creation of “2 Turntables,” a unique program that seamlessly blends his dual passions for music and mental health.
Growing up as the son of Vietnamese immigrants, Paul has lived through the emotional turbulence that comes from trauma and adversity. This personal history has only deepened his understanding of the lasting impacts of mental health issues like trauma, depression, and anxiety. As a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 11 years in Texas and Pennsylvania, he has cultivated a wealth of knowledge and experience supporting individuals grappling with a spectrum of challenges—including addiction, depression, anxiety, stress, anger, and sleep issues. Paul approaches each situation with the utmost sensitivity, compassion, and thoughtfulness.
Paul’s core mission is clear: to help and serve individuals on their journey toward emotional well-being. By dismantling barriers to mental health care, he aims to reach those who may find it difficult to relate to or access conventional therapy. “2 Turntables” offers a unique opportunity to explore mental health through the lens of creativity and connection—providing a safe space where participants can engage with their feelings and experiences.
Now officially established in Houston, Texas, Paul invites anyone curious about this groundbreaking approach to get in touch. His ambition is to establish the program back in his hometown of Pittsburgh by the Summer of 2025. Below is a collection of apparel to fundraise and subsidize the cost of therapy for those who cannot afford it. Native 412 supports this endeavor, and we hope you can as well through each purchase of clothing and through the Pittsburgh Pizza Shop Calendar.
For more info: please check out 2turntables.org
