Nick is a seasoned explorer and innovative healthcare professional spanning over 44 years in the behavioral and medical health services industry. Originally from Brooklyn, New York

he spent his formative years growing up amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River.

Prior to embarking on his academic career,

Nick served as a Navy Corpsman, working with Marine Corps infantry and tank battalions delivering essential medical care under hostile demanding conditions in foreign lands.

Upon returning to civilian life, he honed his expertise in mental health by practicing at various psychiatric hospitals in New York City and outpatient clinics throughout the Midwest and Florida. As a registered nurse, Nick recognized early in his career that addressing emotional and mental health challenges requires a multifaceted approach that extends beyond medication or short-term hospital intervention.

Nick earned his Nursing degree from Maria College in Albany, New York, and further advanced his qualifications by completing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology & minored in Gerontology.  This approach integrates his vast experience with a holistic approach to care, rooted in the principle of addressing the interconnected nature of mind, body, and spirit-offering a comprehensive pathway to achieving wellness and healing.

       Through his association with Holistic Forest,

Nick helps to facilitate a distinctive wilderness therapy program, leveraging the restorative power of nature and wildlife to rediscovering personal unique experiences of purpose and meaning to create change. This patient-centered and individualized approach to wellness is grounded in respect for each individual’s unique journey,

cultivating a supportive environment that promotes self-discovery, personal growth,

sustainable well-being, healing and change.

      

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Dani Schiavo M.Ed.

As the Mindfulness and Meditation Program Director at Holistic Forest - Dani brings a wealth of

experience and a deep commitment to fostering wellness and resilience in a diverse educational

setting. Her service in higher education at the collegiate level spans over five years, with more

than a decade of K-12 education, as a Behavior Intervention Specialist, where she has

dedicated her time to supporting students. This professional path is enriched by her being a

tribally enrolled member of the Seneca Nation of Indians of New York, which fuels her passion

for inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and relevant approaches to education and well-being.

With a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a Master of Education from the University of Oklahoma

and ongoing doctoral studies in Adult and Higher Education, Dani blends the love for learning

with heartfelt guidance. Her expertise extends into mindfulness practices, somatic yoga, and

trauma-informed training, all integral elements of the holistic approach and mission of Holistic

Forest. Continuing education and professional development have led Dani to explore the

transformative power of mindfulness: helping clients cultivate spiritual awareness, emotional

regulation, and self-compassion.

Throughout her career, Dani has been recognized for her ability to reach people through

compassion and understanding, working with others to achieve balance and harmony. Dani is

committed to advocating personal growth - spiritually, physically, emotionally and mentally. She

thrives in creating spaces where all voices are heard and respected.

As she leads mindfulness and meditation initiatives, Dani will share practices that enhance

emotional resilience and promote holistic wellness. Her goal is to empower individuals to

navigate personal challenges through mindfulness, ultimately creating a supportive environment

where people can achieve their highest potential.

What aspects of mindfulness or somatic yoga are you most interested in

Holistic Forest LLC

Holistic Forest is an immersive, interactive sanctuary located in the historical Catskill Mountain region of Upstate New York.

This unique destination blends the beauty of aquatic and terrestrial environments with wilderness therapy, offering a harmonious combination of exploration and self-discovery.

By integrating nature's energy with therapeutic wellness practices, visitors are guided toward their own sacred path of healing and transformation.

Drawing on the timeless wisdom of the ancient forest and the lively presence of wildlife-

Holistic Forest provides innovative and meaningful experiences. These tailored explorations empower you to design and achieve your own desired outcomes for change, personal growth and well-being.