When the City of San Francisco approached me about their employee mental health benefits program, they faced a common challenge: they offered comprehensive services, but many employees weren't aware of or accessing them. Information was scattered across multiple platforms, creating unnecessary barriers for those who needed support most.

Journey map digitally illustrated by Alece Birnbach

Working closely with their wellness team, we developed an intuitive visual solution: a garden journey map. This metaphor resonated because gardens naturally convey growth, healing, and ongoing care – perfect for representing mental health resources. Different garden elements represented various services, and most importantly, how to access appropriate support.

After interviewing stakeholders and mapping existing services, I developed the visual concept through several collaborative iterations. We tested the design with diverse employee groups to ensure it was both comprehensive and approachable for everyone.

By creating an emotional connection while providing clear guidance, the journey map makes mental health support more approachable for city employees.

Is your organization struggling to communicate complex information or services to your team or customers? A custom journey map might be your solution.

Graphic Recording Studio
The founder of the Graphic Recording Studio, Alece Birnbach brings experience as an illustrator, fine artist, and 20 years as an advertising art director to her company, which is hired by the Fortune 100 to craft graphic recordings at their conferences, workshops, and proprietary meetings. Her unique combination of skills and experience gives Alece the unique ability to listen differently to what clients need and to draw out (literally!) their ideas always with sustainable outcomes in mind.
htp://www.graphicrecordingstudio.com
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