my story
Hi, my name is Isabel Santis.
My journey along the path of expanded states started in 1995 when I had a dream that changed my life. When I woke up, covered in sweat and shaking, I knew this was no ordinary dream. It was an invitation to a journey of self-discovery.
This experience catalyzed a process of self-exploration and learning. I began studying shamanism, dreamwork, somatic embodiment, expressive art therapy, and other subjects that helped me gain skills to navigate expanded states of awareness. I also became a certified coach and completed an MA in Transformative Leadership. All this time I was working on my "real job" as a program manager for corporations and non-profits, and while the work was challenging and interesting, it didn't fill my soul.
I had been attended Burning Man for many years, and I somehow always found myself holding space and supporting folks who were having difficult psychedelic journeys. I took the Zendo training in 2012 and realized that this work was my true calling but I had no idea of how to turn my vocation into a career.
Eventually, the universe helped me along. After a string of amazing synchronicities, I enrolled in the East-West Psychology Ph.D. program at CIIS, where I was able to pursue my passion, studying expanded states of consciousness, shamanic practices, and eco-psychology full time. In 2019, I launched Spiral Journey, making use of all that I have learned in the service of my clients. I have been honored to learn from many distinguished and generous teachers from all walks of life. Everything I know I owe to them, and to my ancestors who have passed down their knowledge to me.
My Approach
I help my clients transform insights from their expanded states into positive changes in their life. I developed the Spiral Journey Methodology, a process grounded in shamanic practices and spirituality, and drawing on my knowledge of eco-psychology, somatic therapy, and expressive arts. This approach allows participants to make profound meaning of their experiences and transform insight into action through embodied awareness. I am honored and humbled in supporting my client's process of healing, personal growth, and transformation.
MY Qualifications
Qualifications
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Ph.D.(C), East-West Psychology, CIIS. The focus of my research is on:
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Ecopsychology
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Depth Psychology
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Expanded states of consciousness
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Accredited Ecotuner, International Ecopsychology Society
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Integrated Somatic Trauma Therapy Certificate, The EmbodyLab
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Certificate in Ecopsychology, Pacifica Graduate Institute
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Trauma-Informed Coaching Certification, Moving the Human Spirit
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Positive Psychology Coaching Certification, Positive Acorn, with continuing education through the Wholebeing Institute
I have also trained in EFT, Expressive Art Therapy facilitation, Psychosynthesis, dreamwork, Shamanic practices, and the Mayan Calendar, spirituality, and cosmovision.
For a complete list of my training and qualifications, click below.