About Me and How I Got Here

Inspired by the Call to Be Helpful

Since as early as I can recall, the desire to be helpful has been a guiding light for me. Early dreams of becoming a veterinarian or an artist evolved into years of uncertainty and seeking as I desperately tried to understand who I was meant to be without a clear roadmap. My life has been a journey of taking one step after another and navigating through my confusion and questioning.

Photo by Jon Fischer

“We see people and things not as they are, but as we are.”

~Anthony de Mello

A Tapestry of Transformation

In my late teens and early adulthood, the music and culture of the ’60s captivated my heart. The music of that era especially stirred something within me that I couldn’t articulate at the time but it felt expansive and opened my mind in ways that felt exhilarating.

This period of self-discovery marked the beginning of a unique journey that took me beyond conventional boundaries. I delved into the realms of various philosophies, seeking inspiration from diverse sources such as spiritually and holistically oriented teachers, therapists, and meditation retreats. This exploration became a pivotal chapter, guiding me towards a life centered on personal growth and a desire to transcend the challenges that had for so long been sources of pain and discomfort in my life.

Prolific voices of people such as Ram Das, Stanislav Groff, Eckhart Tolle, Byron Katie, and Pema Chödrön were among the voices that impacted me throughout my years of searching. Much of my early learning still influences everything I do—whether in my work, in leisure, or within the realms of contemplation and meditation.

Navigating Life’s Diverse Landscapes

With over half a century of life’s twists and turns, I’ve navigated through periods of intense depression and anxiety, constant self-doubt, and ravaging inner criticism. With the generous and compassionate support of teachers, mentors, and therapists, my journey has taken me through many diverse landscapes including travels, advanced education and extensive clinical practice, experimentation with traditional plant-based medicines, and deep dives into spiritual practices.

From Sufi mysticism to Buddhist meditation, Yoga and Ayurveda, Earth-based spirituality and eco-psychology, Christian mysticism and A Course in Miracles (ACIM), transpersonal psychology, counseling, peer counseling, and the expressive arts, my exploration has been extensive.

Standing on Solid Ground

With this colorful tapestry of experiences, I now stand on solid ground, an amalgamation of my journey and the profound influences that have shaped it. I’ve learned to navigate life with a degree of skill and comfort for which I am humbled and very grateful. Still, there are times when I stand in awe, both of how far I’ve come, and how far I still seem to have to go.

A Fortuitous Clarity

And now, after what felt like endless steps, clarity has emerged and I find myself grounded in an understanding of who I am and why I’m here. This journey, with its many detours and delays, has led me to a place where I feel the blessing of being in a position to offer the wisdom gained from my experiences to support you on your path of holistic self-discovery, healing, and evolution.

In a world sometimes veiled in chaos and uncertainty, I stand firm in my belief in the incredible potential that resides within you to heal, evolve, and embrace the peace and empowerment that rightfully belongs to you. Deep within you lies a wellspring of resilience, capable of transforming adversity into growth and darkness into light.

“I’m not interested in your limiting beliefs; I’m interested in what makes you limitless.”
Brendon Burchard

Together, an Incredible Journey

By blending mindfulness-based principles with grounded contemporary psychology, and practicality with experiential wisdom, I am committed to helping you connect deeply with your best self. My goal is to nurture your confidence in yourself, your relationships, and all aspects of life. I’m grateful to serve as your guide toward a holistic understanding of your inner universe.

Are you looking for holistic mental health care online?

I conduct all my sessions in a private, secure online setting.

Education and Training

Professional Training

  • Certified Drama Therapist, Boston, MA, 2005 Omega Transpersonal Drama Therapy
  • Certified Transpersonal Psychotherapist, Boston, MA, 1994 Theravision Institute for Transpersonal Psychotherapy

Professional Affiliations

  • American Mental Health Counselors Association, 2021-Present
  • North American Drama Therapy Association, 2005-Present
  • Board of Directors, Omega Transpersonal Drama Therapy Program, 2015-2019

Publications

  • Book Chapter, Stein, Jonathan, The Heart and Soul of Psychotherapy, Trafford Publishing, 2013.LIF
  • Odyssey of Curiosity Blog, www.jonathanstein.org

Education and Certification

  • MA in Counseling/Psychology, Boston, MA, 1995 Lesley University
  • BA Psychology, Westfield, MA, 1987 Westfield University
  • Mysticism and Mind Training (CM), Living Miracles, 2019-2024
  • Center for Attitudinal Healing Group Facilitator Training, 2023
  • Wholeness Method Relationship Training, 2022-2023
  • Inner Relationship Focusing, 2016-2018
  • Non-Violent Communication (NVC), 2002-2004
  • Re-Evaluation Counseling (RC), 1998-2001
  • Therapeutic Breathwork Certifications (2), Unlimited Network, 1998-2003