Contemplative Therapy

Jodi is a graduate of Naropa's Contemplative Psychotherapy Graduate Program. Naropa University’s concentration in Contemplative Psychotherapy & Buddhist Psychology master's degree is a counseling program that grounds itself in the Buddhist contemplative wisdom tradition and includes current humanistic psychological approaches to give insight and skills to show up fully for one's self and others.

I graduated from Naropa University in the Contemplative Psychology program. Currently work as a professor at Naropa in the Mindfulness-based Transpersonal Program. My approach is rooted in the contemplative tradition. This approach is acceptance based, present moment centered, and works by recognizing the wholeness of my client. Who you want to become is already within you, let's uncover who you are together.

Buddhism + psychology is an incredibly powerful combination for personal growth. Buddhism provides the analogy and wisdoms for living a life free from suffering — we are lotuses that transform the murky mud of our world and its challenges into nutrients for growth — psychology provides insight and guidance into the process of human development and offer tools for change. Up for the challenge? I will dive deep with you to tackle the most fundamental questions about life and who we are.

I completed my master's degree in contemplative psychotherapy (now titled Buddhist Psychology) at Naropa University. This included a great deal of study beyond traditional therapy programs to learn Buddhist philosophy and practice meditation and mindfulness techniques. We embodied these practices beyond just intellectual understanding by undertaking two-week-long meditation retreats every semester, during which we would implement what we were learning to better understand it within ourselves.

I hold a MA in Contemplative Psychotherapy and Buddhist Psychology. “Contemplative psychotherapy may be said to have two parents: the 2,500-year-old wisdom tradition of Buddhism and the clinical traditions of Western Psychology, especially the Humanistic school. Like all offspring it has much in common with both of its parents and yet is uniquely itself at the same time.” — Karen Kissell Wegela,

Overcoming our very human tendency to grasp at pleasure and avoid what's unpleasant is at the core of our work together in therapy. Fortunately, contemplative therapy also allows us to access tools available in your very own heart/mind to make that work less tedious and more meaningful.

I integrate the Contemplative Theory seamlessly into my approach. By recognizing and embracing our strengths, often overlooked or dismissed, we gain the confidence needed to explore painful experiences. As humans, we thrive in a constant state of change, and the Contemplative Theory aligns perfectly with this perspective. It fosters ongoing self-exploration, guiding us towards our truest selves in this ever-evolving journey of life.

Masters of Clinical Mental Health - focus on Contemplative Psychotherapy and Buddhist Psychology

Find balance through mindful practices to directly heal and change your energy.

Contemplative psychotherapy is a frame based on integrating the wisdom of the Buddhist tradition with modern psychology. We use our own meditation practice as a foundation for our work with clients. We emphasize the present moment experience and each client's 'brilliant sanity'- their inherent mental and emotional well-being, and strive to help clients recognize this quality in themselves.

Contemplative therapy addresses our need for mindfulness and spirituality. Acknowledging and creating a place of safety, trust, and a place where you can be free to share whatever is on your mind with no judgement. I help you go deep into your psyche to find answers - your truth that may be buried so far down with layers of confusion, second guessing, filled with anxiety wondering what you really want and who you really are.

Frequent use of contemplative therapy techniques.

I have a Master's degree in Holistic Health studies and have dedicated my career to integrative approaches to healing. I enjoy bringing in your cultural strengths and practices to our work. I employ mindfulness approaches and focus on compassion: towards self, others, and the natural world, as a part of our work. I encourage time in nature, readings, art, music, podcasts, meditation, and community connection as healing work.

I am a contemplative myself, and am a formally trained Spiritual Director in Jewish and Catholic traditions. (Elat Chayyim’s Lev Shomea 2 year training) I create safe space for listening for the soul to be heard, beneath ego’s distractions.

I have a strong interest and practice in Buddhist philosophy. I incorporate mindfulness and meditation when clinically indicated.

My focus includes helping individuals navigate grief, life transitions, identity, trauma, spirituality, and relationship concerns. If you choose to work with me, I would nourish a therapeutic relationship of trust, compassion, and soul