Nick is an experienced healthcare worker with over 33 years in the mental and medical health fields.

He grew up in the beautiful Catskill Mountains and by the Hudson River.

Nick served in the US Navy for 10 years.

As a Navy Corpsman, he provided vital medical care to Marine Corps infantry and tank units.

After leaving the Navy, he focused on mental health, working in psychiatric hospitals in New York City and outpatient clinics across the Midwest and Florida. As a registered nurse, Nick realized that tackling emotional and mental health issues needs a well-rounded approach that goes beyond just medication or quick hospital stays.

He got his nursing degree from Maria College in Albany, New York, and then earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Gerontology. This background helps him combine his extensive experience with a holistic view of care, focusing on the connection between mind, body, and spirit to promote wellness and healing.

       Through his work with Holistic Forest,

Nick helps run a unique wilderness therapy program that uses nature's healing power to help individuals find purpose and make positive changes. This approach is all about respecting each person's unique journey, creating a supportive space for self-discovery, growth, long-term well-being, healing, and change.

           ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

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.