Dr. Ali Maya

East-West Somatic Psychologist
Plant Medicine Preparation and Integration Specialist
Ceremonial Guide and Musician

About Dr. Ali Maya

Somatic Psychologist
Plant Medicine Integration Specialist
Ceremonial Guide and Musician

Ali has been a student and teacher of world mysticism traditions and indigenous shamanism for over 25 years. She integrates her academic training in Buddhist Studies, Comparative Mysticism and Clinical Psychology with all she has learned from indigenous healers of North and South America.

She guides retreats, teaches programs and creates music, all inspired by the prayer for the alleviation of human suffering and the opening of the human heart, in service to creating a healthier, happier world for all.

EDUCATION  

• Postdoctoral training, Institute of Transpersonal Psychology 2009-2011
• Master’s and Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology, CIIS (focus on East-West & Somatic Psychotherapy)  2009
• Somatic Psychotherapy training, Lomi School of Psychotherapy  2006
• Master’s and Specialist degree in Counselor Education, University of Florida  2003
• Buddhist Studies, Naropa University  2000-2001
• BA in Comparative Religion (focus on Buddhist Studies) New College of Florida  2000
• Buddhist and Meditation Studies, Reed University 1996

TRAINING

• Study and training of Peruvian shamanic healing – ongoing since 2004
• Pacific School of Bodywork and Awareness: 2004
• Somatics and African, Latin, improv dance: 1997-2006
• Expressive Arts Therapy Training: 1997-2000
• Reiki Master Certification: 1999
• Kalachakra Tantra – initiation to the Buddhist path under Lama Yeshe lineage since 1998
• Yoga and meditation teacher training: 1998
• Heartwood Institute of Massage: 1998
• Study and training in cleansing and detox protocols – ongoing since 1996
• Jungian Institute in Switzerland: 1995
• Ecopsychology and wilderness – ongoing since 1990

PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Joined Shift Network Faculty, 2023

• Joined the Plant Spirit School Faculty, 2022
• Director and service provider of holistic wellness program at the University of Florida Law School, 2002-2003
• Founded a private Clinical Psychotherapy practice – Aptos Counseling Center, 2009-2012
• Released 5 Studio albums of ceremonial music:
  • Oceans of Compassion, 2011
  • Ever-Flowing Fountain, 2017
  • Washed Free, 2019
  • Miracle of Healing, 2022
  • Sacred Plants, 2023-2024
• Founded Ali Maya Retreats, est. 2008
  • Domestic and International in person retreats
  • Online courses
  • Mentorship programs
  • One on one coaching packages
• Ordained minister officiating weddings and other sacred ceremonies since 2008
• Yoga and meditation instructor since 1997