YOUR WELLNESS COMMUNITY AWAITS...
Janine Mendes-Franco
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Become a member of The Greenhouse at Serpentine and enjoy wonderful discounts and wellness benefits!
Call us at (868) 687-1425 to find out more!
The therapists and medical professionals making a difference in your wellness journey are here and ready to get you started! Our skilled team of therapists and wellness practitioners provides personalised care to support your physical, mental, and emotional health.
Tiffany Alcantara, Clinical Psychologist
Tiffany’s holistic approach blends trauma resolution techniques with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy to help build resilience. With a Masters Degree in ClinicalPsychology from the University of the West Indies and over 15 years of experience in private practice, Tiffany specialises in treating anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma, and helps patients adjust to major life changes. Her holistic therapeutic approach blends trauma resolution techniques with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.
Jade Gomez, Craniosacral Therapist
Through gentle, non-invasive craniosacral therapy (CST), Jade relieves tension and fosters healing, supporting those with chronic pain, stress, or neurological conditions. Having dealt with anxiety and depression herself, she found CST to be an effective solution for achieving physical, emotional and neurological balance, resulting in an improved quality of life. CST supports the body’s natural healing process by improving fluid flow and relieving tension in the central nervous system.
Mikaili Hamel-Smith, Registered Aesthetic Nurse
Detail-oriented and committed to providing exceptional patient care, Mikaili is certified in the administration of various injectables, including vitamin drips, Botox and filler treatments. Mikaili first qualified as a medical aesthetician, where she performed a wide range of procedures, from chemical peels to laser therapy. She then became a registered nurse, and her clinical expertise and critical thinking skills are matched only by her compassion.
Kristin Lee, Acupuncturist
Specialising in “Sooji Chim,” a Korean healing practice focusing on the hands, Kristin’s targeted therapy offers relief from pain and stress, and enhances overall health. Through careful manipulation of specific points and meridians in the hands, Kristin can positively influence various organs, systems, and overall well-being. Korean hand therapy is a natural and effective choice for stress relief and relaxation, improved circulation, pain relief, enhanced immune function, boosted energy levels, better digestion, sharper focus and and greater mental clarity.
Sharon Lochan, Massage Therapist
With expertise in various therapeutic massage techniques, Sharon delivers personalised treatments to restore physical and mental well-being. Trained at the Trinidad and Tobago School of Massage Therapy and Beauty Culture (TTMAC), Sharon has continuously kept abreast of therapy techniques – including reflexology, integrated manual therapy, suction cupping and orthopaedic sports massage – using them to create a signature massage style that improves her clients’ well-being. To her, massage therapy is the catalyst that helps people feel better, both physically and mentally.
Roberto Mansoor, Holistic Therapist
Drawing from Asian body therapies and a deep meditation practice, Roberto brings a transformative approach to healing through ancient methods like Thai massage and Ayurvedic bodywork. With over 20 years of expertise in these ancient modalities, he is a proponent of the mind-body connection, believing that skilled bodywork combined with clear healing intention can produce profound results. At the core of Roberto’s work is his daily meditation practice and dedication to his personal healing journey.
Dr. Keshenee Ramnarine, Psychiatrist
With over a decade of experience in guiding individuals toward holistic healing, Dr. Ramnarine provides compassionate psychiatric and mental health support. A national scholarship winner who graduated from the University of the West Indies with her Doctorate of Medicine, her interest in the human mind and human behaviour led her to specialise in psychiatry. Accredited with the Specialist Register of the Medical Board of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Ramnarine supports those who struggle with their mental health on their journey toward healing.
Tikira Beresford, Osteopath
Trained at the European School of Osteopathy in the UK, Tikira is passionate about helping you achieve comfort in their bodies through holistic care that focuses on pain relief as well as the restoration of movement and function. An allied health profession that involves diagnosing, treating, and preventing health issues, osteopathy is based on the principle that the body’s function is governed by its structure. By addressing the musculoskeletal system, therefore, you can enhance your overall health.
Ready to embark on your own wellness journey? Book a slot (687-1425) to nurture your mind, body, and soul.
‘What I’ve envisioned for so long is finally coming to fruition’
Q: Congrats on the launch of The Greenhouse at Serpentine. Anyone walking through it will realise it’s more than just a space. What inspired you to create this wellness haven?
A: I’m so glad to be here and to share this journey, which really began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when I noticed a stark reality. Patients who were using the back entrance of the clinic to avoid contact with those being tested often commented on the peace they felt while walking through our garden. It was in those moments that I recognised a deeper issue. It struck me that this wasn’t just about physical health anymore; it was also about mental well-being — finding a sense of calm and comfort in the midst of chaos.
Q: How did this observation — and the experiences of your patients — help shape the idea for The Greenhouse?
A: The pandemic brought a lot of issues to the surface. We saw toddlers whose eczema flared due to isolation and lack of social interaction, primary schoolers suffering from severe anxiety and trichotillomania after prolonged screen time, and teenagers grappling with self-harm. On top of that, business professionals came in weighed down by stress, their psoriasis reflecting the mental strain they were under. It became clear that physical symptoms were often a manifestation of deeper emotional struggles. COVID-19 affected us all in various ways, but it also illuminated the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support. I realised I needed to do more.
Q: So how did you bridge the gap between recognising these challenges and doing something about it?
A: It all came back to the garden; specifically, my father’s greenhouse. That space had always been a sanctuary for him, a place of growth and nurturing. I started to wonder: could this greenhouse — this symbol of care and support — be transformed into a sanctuary for others? That’s when the idea began to take shape. I envisioned a space where people of all ages could not only seek help, but also learn the skills to navigate their struggles and thrive in their lives. Trinidad is home to many brilliant minds specialising in mental health and I believed Dad’s greenhouse could be the foundation for something far greater. That’s how The Greenhouse at Serpentine was born.
“‘I am overcome with a profound sense of joy and fulfilment.’”
Q: What a meaningful tribute to your father’s legacy. So what exactly does The Greenhouse offer?
A: We’ve built The Greenhouse at Serpentine on the principles of resilience and hope, assembling a dedicated team of experienced therapists and mental health professionals who provide exceptional care and alternative holistic therapies. Beyond that, we’re also committed to education. We aim to be a resource for families, teachers, and communities, fostering understanding, growth, and connection. It’s about creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond the individuals who walk through our doors. We want to serve as an anchor. As our tagline says, The Greenhouse at Serpentine is where your journey to wellness takes root.
We also offer a range of products that help you live your life in the best possible way – from handmade soaps and organic cleaners to decorative household items, ceramics, soy candles, beautiful fresh flowers and so much more; we really want to bring people together. Our in-house barista, with her amazing coffee, wellness shots and fresh juices, will certainly make people want to slow down and spend some time, even after shopping or attending a therapy session.
Q: So it’s more than just a clinic; it’s also a community initiative. What do you hope The Greenhouse will achieve?
A: My hope is that The Greenhouse becomes a beacon — a place where people feel safe, supported, and empowered to face life’s challenges. We want to make a meaningful impact on the emotional and mental health needs of our nation. If we can help even one person find clarity and strength, then we’ve succeeded. Whether you’re here for yourself, a friend or family member, you’re not alone. We’re here to walk with you, every step of the way.
From friends and family to social media reels, everyone has their own take on what makes a “successful” life — but what about a happy and healthy one? A life that makes us grateful for each step of the journey, whether the path is uphill or smooth sailing. A life that makes us resilient and keeps us balanced.
The Greenhouse at Serpentine is here to nurture your personal wellness journey and support you in looking and feeling healthier — mind, body, and spirit. Our amazing bank of skilled wellness therapists and mental health professionals provide the perfect combination of light, warmth and care you need to flourish.
Take time for self-care, connect with nature, explore your potential, and access the healing power within. We’re growing something meaningful and lasting, and we can’t wait for you to join us!
Here’s a peek at what to expect:
A welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home, including a restorative garden space where you can relax and unwind
Expertly crafted coffee, fresh fruit juices and delightful delicacies
Highly trained therapists who consider wellness from a holistic perspective, including craniosacral therapy, Korean hand acupuncture, and a range of massage modalities, including reflexology, Ayurvedic body therapies, Chinese acupressure, Thai yoga massage, and traditional Indonesian healing techniques
A wonderfully diverse array of products that have your good health in mind, from local art, handmade crafts and décor to fresh flowers and organic cleaning products
A sense of community as we come together to socialise, play, give back, learn and support one another in making life everything it can be.
After our launch at the end of November, The Greenhouse at Serpentine will be open from Monday December 2, 2024, Monday to Saturday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Our vibrant schedule of events changes every week, and our activities, treatments and workshops are sure to make you feel grounded, rejuvenated, and truly connected. We look forward to seeing you there!
From turkey neck to other sagging areas, we’ve got amazing treatments that can help…
Lasers and other modern-day skin and body treatments may not be able to stop the natural ageing process, but they have redefined its parameters. Two of the first areas that can give away your age are the neck and jawline — but turkey neck no longer has to be a thing, thanks to effective non-invasive treatments that firm and tighten sagging skin and loose muscles.
What is turkey neck?
Brought on by a natural breakdown in collagen and elastin as we age (and sometimes exacerbated by repeated muscle movements), wrinkled or loose skin around the neck and lax muscles in the jawline begin to resemble the wattle of a turkey, adding years to your face.
Other factors like sun exposure (especially if you don’t wear sunscreen), weight fluctuations, and genetics can also play a role in whether people get turkey neck. Regardless, skin loses firmness and elasticity as we age. As muscles weaken, the sagging effect can be exaggerated — so how do we counteract it?
Traditionally used to smooth forehead lines and crow’s feet, a Botox neck lift involves injecting the potent protein into the neck muscles. This relaxes them and reduces the appearance of neck bands, creating a smoother, firmer look.
While results are temporary, typically lasting anywhere from 3-6 months, Botox is always a minimally invasive and highly effective option for anyone looking to soften their neck line without downtime.
If you’re looking for advanced skin tightening for your neck — and well beyond — the Morpheus8 is a skin rejuvenation treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) energy to counteract sagging, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture.
It works by creating tiny micro-injuries in the skin while delivering RF energy deep into the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin production. It’s a powerful dual approach that tightens skin from within, making Morpheus ideal for tackling turkey neck and restoring firmness and smoothness to the area.
Even better, Morpheus treatments can be used to rejuvenate various areas of the body:
Face — Morpheus turns back the clock by reducing fine lines and wrinkles, tightening skin, and improving its texture. It’s super-effective for softening the folds that extend from the sides of your nose to the corners of your mouth, and addressing sagging cheeks.
Tummy — Tighten and firm the loose skin around your abs after weight loss or postpartum, and look leaner and smoother.
Arms and thighs — Morpheus can also firm crêpe-like skin in these areas, improving the appearance of skin laxity and texture.
Hands — Often exposed to sun and environmental damage, the skin on our hands can easily look thin and wrinkled. Morpheus can help rejuvenate this area by stimulating collagen production.
It’s undoubtedly a standout treatment for many reasons:
Non-invasive — Morpheus produces results that rival surgical lifts, but without the downtime. Most people experience only mild redness or swelling, allowing them to get back to their usual routine quickly.
Customisable — It can be adjusted to treat different depths, making it versatile enough for various skin types and areas.
Lasting Results — The collagen boost from Morpheus can lead to lasting improvements in skin texture and elasticity, with results continuing to develop over time.
To figure out whether Botox or Morpheus is right for you, give us a call or come in for a consultation. We’ll help you determine the best approach based on your skin type, goals, and preferences, and voilà — you can look as youthful on the outside as you feel on the inside, while ageing gracefully and beautifully.