“For over 30 years, I’ve journeyed through the ever-evolving mental health landscape. This journey has been more than an academic endeavor—it’s been a life-altering exploration of the human psyche,” Lorie shares, reflecting on the myriad experiences that have shaped her path.
Equipped with dual master’s degrees in Dance Therapy and Social Work, her educational background attests to an insatiable curiosity about human emotions and behaviors. Yet, it was not academia alone that sculpted her understanding; personal experiences have been profound teachers along the way.
Early on, I was captivated by the transformative power of dance therapy—a realm where body language could articulate what words often couldn’t. This kinesthetic form of communication fascinated me, inspiring a deeper exploration into societal and relational dynamics’ influence on mental health. Thus, I ventured into Social Work, broadening my understanding of the factors shaping our mental landscapes.
Mindfulness and Metamorphosis
My thirst for understanding led me to psychoanalytic training, an intimate exploration of the subconscious mind. This chapter in my career proved invaluable, arming me with the analytical tools to delve even deeper into the mysteries of human behavior. Simultaneously, I discovered the sanctuary of yoga. It was more than a form of exercise; it became my spiritual anchor, shedding light on the complex interplay between mind, body, and soul.
From Challenge to Catalyst
My journey in mental health as a clinician has been deeply personal, marked by my own experiences. These struggles, far from being a hindrance, became a cornerstone of my professional evolution. They were a humbling reminder that mental health issues do not discriminate, touching lives indiscriminately. This intimate acquaintance not only heightened my empathy but also reshaped my professional identity.
Transitioning from merely being a clinician to an icon of hope, I embody the belief that overcoming mental health challenges is not just a possibility but a likelihood with the right blend of resources and empathetic support. This personal transformation has been a driving force in my career, fueling my dedication to holistic mental health care and patient empowerment.
The Turning Point: My Journey with the SWEET Institute
In my long-standing exploration of mental healthcare, I’ve crossed paths with various institutions and ideologies. However, the SWEET Institute truly struck a chord with me. Their holistic approach to training clinicians is a breath of fresh air in a field often limited by dogma. The Institute aims not just to reduce suffering but to do so by utilizing a spectrum of methodologies. It’s a refreshing deviation from the “one-size-fits-all” models I’ve encountered.
A Timely Discovery in a Changing World
I discovered the SWEET Institute during a tumultuous period marked by a global pandemic and its ensuing isolation. In this challenging landscape, my search for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) serendipitously guided me to their online courses. The platform was an unexpected sanctuary, offering fresh perspectives when the world and my practice were in flux.
The Power of Socratic Teaching and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
The online CBT course and all the other courses I enrolled in weren’t merely instructional; they were transformative. Learning became a two-way street through a Socratic teaching method—a mutual exploration of theories and their real-world applications. This educational experience added a new dimension to my existing skillset, empowering me to approach my work with renewed energy and focus.
My relationship with the SWEET Institute has been pivotal in my professional evolution. While I had a robust theoretical foundation, my time at the Institute has enriched my understanding with actionable insights. The focus has not been merely on theory but on applying evidence-based practices in concrete, impactful ways—for patients with mild, moderate and serious mental and emotional conditions.
In mental health, anxiety and depression often become so ingrained in an individual’s identity that separating them from these conditions becomes a formidable task. My association with the SWEET Institute gave me the nuanced tools required for this complex challenge. It’s no longer just about treating symptoms but empowering individuals to rediscover themselves, unburdened by their conditions.
Lorie Meiselman is a seasoned psychotherapist specializing in counseling for adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups. With nearly three decades of experience, Lorie has earned recognition for her innovative approach to therapy, which integrates modern analysis, psycho-dynamic techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness to facilitate ongoing self-healing. A graduate of Brooklyn College, New York University, and Fordham University, Lorie has made significant contributions to the field through her work in private practice and as a staff member at renowned psychiatric hospitals and learning institutions.