Certified Psychedelic Somatic Therapist
As we rapidly accelerate towards a future mental health picture in which psychedelic therapy is central to the discourse, I have actively sought out mentorship collaboration with some of the most respected thinkers in the field. Over the past 7 years, I’ve had the opportunity to study and learn from two MAPS clinical trial experts and pioneers. Also, since moving to Mexico in 2019, I’ve had the chance to work closely with indigenous practitioners in Mexico where we live.
In 2022, I was certified at the Psychedelic Somatic Institute in Denver, Colorado. The Psychedelic Somatic Inquiry Process (PSIP) is founded by Saj Razvi. Razvi is an integral player in the evolution of this work beginning with the earliest MAPS clinical trial teams. I continue my training at the Somatic Institute, now on the path to Mastery Certification with preparation to train other therapists in this model.
The general premise of the psychedelic somatic model focuses on helping people to reset their autonomic nervous systems with the support of cannabis and ketamine within a guided relational process in order to allow the body to release stored trauma somatically. You can read and learn more about the methodology at: https://www.psychedelicsomatic.org
My practice today reflects this hybrid between science and spirit; between indigenous and clinical. I am committed to weaving these two approaches together with integrity and intention.
MA in Creative Writing
I completed a Master of Arts degree in creative writing with an emphasis on Psychoanalytic and Feminist Theory. My Master’s thesis was focused on the leveraging of writing as a vehicle and craft for healing and transformation. My creative life as a writer is vital to my overall health and wellbeing. I draw daily from many of the techniques and practices utilized during my program in partnering with my clients.
BA in Philosophy
My emphasis during this program was on Buddhism and Daoism. I had the unique opportunity during my program to participate in a grant-funded research program examining the topic of morality. Our research was comprised of three months traveling through Mainland China and into Tibet visiting various monasteries and interviewing monks. This was a deeply soul-expanding and life-exchanging experience that informs many of my daily practices and habits now almost twenty years later.
Master Coach Certification, Change Management Practitioner & Multiple Trainings with Brene Brown
After spending cumulatively 5 years post-graduation working as an English Teacher and Cultural Consultant in Hong Kong, I opted to return to the United States for a unique opportunity to work with a then startup organization providing executive coaching services to various elite universities across the country. At that time, this was a perfect bridge from my service in the world of education to gain more training in the science of coaching. During my 10 years of service with that organization, I achieved Levels 1, 2 and Master Coach Certifications. The framework followed for training purposes was modeled around International Coaching Federation’s model. Additionally, I was certified in Change Management through Prosci Organization and several trainings through Brené Brown’s Daring Classroom.
Miscellaneous & Continuing Education & Training
As a life-long learner, I am always curious to learn ways to expand my offerings. I am a certified yoga instructor and have completed numerous specialized advanced trainings in the Internal Family Systems model of therapy, specifically geared towards psychedelic work.