Cultivate presence, Increase Joy

"Learning to be fully present is the greatest of all human journeys. When we truly wake up, we become available for self-discovery and transformation. From this place, peace becomes possible." --Stephanie Swann, Ph.D., LCSW

I am trained as a psychotherapist and a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction instructor. In addition, I serve as one of the two guiding teachers for the Atlanta Insight Meditation Community. Walking the Dharma path, which includes living mindfully, is not only what I help others do; it is the guiding principle of my own life.

I have been practicing mindfulness and following the Dharma since 2008. My own journey began with an 8-week class in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Without hyperbole, I can honestly say that that course changed my life. As I began practicing mindfulness, I also began to get still and quiet. As this happened, I began to question the roots of mindfulness, which led me to begin studying, practicing, and living the teachings of the Buddha. Today, the Dharma informs all aspects of life. Aligning my mind, heart, and body with the teachings and walking the Noble Eightfold Path has not only brought me face to face with the truths of life, I have also found more peace and true happiness.

Credentials

• Ph.D. Smith College School for Social Work, Northampton, Massachusetts

• M.S.W. University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia

• Certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Instructor, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Center for Mindfulness

Current professional practice

Atlanta Mindfulness Institute owner and instructor

Atlanta Insight Meditation Community co-guiding teacher