ACEP Board of Directors

Officers

Email: pamelaaltaffer@gmail.com

With a steadfast commitment to ACEP, Pam Altaffer has played pivotal roles, serving as the Chair of the ACEP Membership Committee and simultaneously serving on the Board of Directors from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2018. Subsequently she assumed the position of President Elect on January 1, 2022, and became the President on January 1, 2023. Pam's journey in the field began with a Master's in Social Work from Arizona State University in 1985, followed by licensure in both New Jersey (1987) and California (1990). Boasting 38 years of experience in Clinical Social Work, she specializes in aiding individuals, couples, families, and groups dealing with PTSD, anxiety, grief, life transitions, manifesting one’s desires, and relationship issues.



Pam's commitment to effective techniques led her to certifications in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Thought Field Therapy (TFT). She further expanded her expertise by exploring various energy psychology modalities such as EFT, Tapas Acupressure Technique (TAT), Be Set Free Fast (BSFF). As a co-creator of the Ask and Receive technique, Pam shares her knowledge internationally through teaching and online courses. Residing in both New Jersey and Arizona, Pam, along with her husband, developed an EP-based system to address relationship issues for couples. Besides her professional pursuits, she brings joy and creativity to groups as a Certified InterPlay leader, expressing her love for improvisational  dance and storytelling. She also enjoys biking, hiking, traveling and lots of laughter!

Email:  drlorihops@gmail.com

Dr. Lori Chortkoff Hops, PhD, DCEP is a licensed Psychologist, (University of Houston, Texas), Diplomate in Comprehensive Energy Psychology (DCEP), Certified Logosynthesis Practitioner and Instructor, and is a Reiki Master in a private practice in Westlake Village, California, USA. Lori has served on ACEP's Executive Board of Directors since 2016 as Secretary, President-elect (2020) and President (2021-2022). Lori founded the ACEP Ventura County Local Group (2015 - 2019), and was Chair of the Communications Committee (2019-2020). 

Lori combines practices from western empirical science, wisdom traditions from around the world, and her personal heart based intuitive guidance when working with others. She teaches online courses on Embodied Intuition. She has taught internationally and in the US to professionals, students, and the general public on energy practices, spirituality, ritual, coping with illness, self-care, laughter yoga, intuition, and movement.

Email: khusmanmd@vitalitypsychiatry.net

Dr. Kerri Husman is a holistic psychiatrist with vast integrative training, including a Diplomate in Comprehensive Energy Psychology (DCEP), Certified Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Provider (CPATP), Certified Holographic Memory Resolution Practitioner (CHMRP), Certified Healing Touch Practitioner (CHTP), Certified International Health Coach (CIHC), Acceptance and Integration Certified Practitioner (AAITCP), Pain Reprocessing Therapist (PRT), and Institute for Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner (IFMCP). Kerri continues to evolve through professional energy psychology practices and ongoing pursuits in Healing Touch for Animals, The Foundation for Shamanic Studies, Intuitive Wellness Coaching, and hypnotherapy.

In addition to her medical practice, Kerri runs a separate coaching and healing practice, offering Healing Touch, Core Shamanic healing, Harner Shamanic Counseling, and wellness and performance coaching. Her commitment to excellence and ethics ensures a clear distinction between psychiatric patients and coaching clients. Currently serving on ACEP's executive committee as president-elect, Kerri cherishes the privilege of learning and teaching alongside fellow practitioners on this transformative journey. Her vision as president-elect is to grow our organization's teaching capacity and our membership, and to raise all the boats when it comes to confidently practicing and utilizing EP worldwide.

Email:

TBA



Email: david@eftmx.com

David MacKay’s journey from the English suburbs of Montreal to his current role as a leading figure in EFT and holistic psychotherapy is a testament to his diverse experiences. After studying Mechanical Engineering at McGill University, he ventured to Honduras in 1975 and discovered his passion for Latin America and proficiency in Spanish. Returning to Canada briefly, life took a different turn when he met a Mexican woman on his way back to Honduras, leading to marriage and two years of work in Mexico. Eight years in Canada followed, but in 1987, David returned to Mexico, initiating his ongoing venture in water treatment.

A turning point occurred at 40 when he delved into metaphysics and mysticism, breaking out of his left-brain shell. His formal training in psychotherapy began in 1999 with a program in Gestalt and Body Psychotherapy, followed by studies in Bio-Energy and Spiritual Healing, Family Constellations, and a comprehensive 5-year training in Holistic Psychotherapy and Meditation with Claudio Naranjo. David's introduction to EFT in 2006 marked a transformative period, leading him to become a certified EFT trainer and Matrix Reimprinting practitioner. Since 2007, he has been teaching EFT in Mexico, Spain, Argentina, and Ecuador, and in 2011, he founded the Hispanic EFT Association, which has grown to include 60 certified EFT practitioners and 28 trainers. The association organizes regular conferences, fostering a community that spans Mexico, Spain, Central, and South America, reaching a substantial audience through a newsletter with a mailing list of 37,000.

Email: acep_ed@energypsych.org 

Assuming the role of Executive Director in September 2008, Dr. Robert (Bob) Schwarz's journey with ACEP has been marked by unwavering dedication. Prior to taking the helm, Bob served on the Board of Directors for three years, notably as the Conference Director, actively contributing to pivotal initiatives focused on operational and financial improvements. Bob's significant contributions include designing ACEP's Science of Energy Healing Online Program; Clarity and Wisdom: The Ethics of Energy Healing; leading the revamping of the EFT Training program; and organizing ACEP’s conference since 2005. Based in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, he is a licensed psychologist, coach, and accomplished author of impactful works, including "Tools for Transforming Trauma" (2002) and "We're No Fun Anymore: Helping Couples Cultivate Joyful Marriages Through The Power of Play" (2011).

Bob's leadership extends back to his tenure as the president of the Institute for Advanced Clinical Training from 1989 to 1996, organizing 11 conferences that influenced over 10,000 therapists. A clinical member of AAMFT and an approved consultant for the ASCH, Bob is diagnostically trained in Thought Field Therapy (TFT), holds a Diplomate in Comprehensive Energy Psychology (DCEP), and is an ACEP advanced Certification in EFT (ACAP-EFT). Internationally recognized, he has presented workshops on energy psychology, Ericksonian therapy, and trauma treatment. Outside his professional pursuits, Bob finds balance through his love for music, playing guitar, and contributing to the acoustic duo, the Keynoters, who have graced ACEP conferences and the 2015 IONS conference.

Email: shawnbluepsyd@gmail.com

Dr. Shawn Blue, Psy.D., DCEP, serves as a licensed psychologist and clinical associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University, currently conducting clinical evaluations and psychotherapy. Additionally, Shawn contributes to the field by serving as a departmental DEI chair, championing diversity initiatives and endeavors. Beyond her university role, Shawn maintains a private practice, specializing in trauma, mood disorders, interpersonal relating, diversity and energy psychology. 

Her commitment to mind/body health led her to attain the Diplomate in Comprehensive Energy Psychology (DCEP) credential in 2017. Passionate about wellness programming, Shawn hosts mental health programming and wellness retreats that impact one’s mind, body and soul. She engages in scholarly work by co-authoring chapters on diverse topics and authored books addressing grief, romantic relationship dissolution, and the psychology of modern dating. Actively involved in professional organizations, including the American Psychological Association, the Association of Black Psychologists and the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology, she holds leadership roles as a board member and executive officer for multiple professional organizations. At ACEP, she chairs the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.

Email: mark@getbeyondtalk.com

Mark Bottinick, a licensed clinical social worker, holds a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland (1995). Over two decades, Mark held leadership roles in public mental health clinics while maintaining a private psychotherapy practice. Mark led an Intensive Outpatient/Partial Hospitalization Program, aiding those at risk of psychiatric hospitalization and headed a Mobile Treatment Program providing comprehensive community-based care for individuals with severe mental illnesses.

Mark was introduced to Thought Field Therapy (TFT) in 1999. Trained by Gregory Nicosia, PhD, he integrated TFT and later, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), into diverse settings, including his private practice and his public health clinics. Today he incorporates many energy psychology modalities, including Logosynthesis, Energy Empowerment Technique, Tapas Acupressure Technique (TAT), Blue Diamond Healing, and Ask and Receive, in his clinical work. Recognizing the effectiveness of these techniques, Mark expanded his outreach, conducting workshops on energy psychology for health practitioners and the public. He joined ACEP to further his knowledge. Mark resides in Silver Spring, MD, along with his wife, daughter, and three dogs.

Email: rlbray@rlbray.com

Dr. Robert (Bob) L. Bray, PhD, LCSW, TFT-VT, DCEP, CTSS, operates a thriving private practice,the Thought Field Therapy Center, in San Diego, California, where he delves into various aspects of mental health. A seasoned professional, Bob not only leads Thought Field Therapy (TFT) training but also imparts knowledge on crisis intervention, critical incident management, self-care, and experiential psychotherapy. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to understanding the profound impact of traumatic stress on the mental and physical well-being of individuals, families, and communities.

Bob’s expertise is encapsulated in his book, "Heal Traumatic Stress NOW: Complete Recovery with Thought Field Therapy – No Open Wounds," offering a consumer-friendly self-help guide for those grappling with overwhelming stress. His journey began in 1996 when he embarked on training and collaboration with Dr. Roger and Joanne Callahan until Dr. Callahan's passing in 2013. Throughout his career, Bob has contributed to the field through therapy, publications, training, and consulting in TFT.

Email: jennifergroebelcsw@gmail.com

Jennifer Groebe, a licensed clinical social worker in Northern California, stands as a seasoned facilitator, trainer, and provider of continuing education for mental health, nursing, and long-term care professionals. With a rich academic background, Jennifer earned her bachelor’s degree from Boston University and her master’s degree from the University of California at Berkeley. Over her 32-year tenure at Kaiser Permanente, she made impactful presentations at national and international conferences, notably contributing to projects like the Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) initiative. Jennifer's career spans teaching at prestigious institutions such as the University of California, Berkeley, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, and John F. Kennedy University in Orinda, CA.

Passionate about Eldercare, domestic violence prevention, depression research, and end-of-life care, Jennifer brings a wealth of experience from her former board roles with Meals on Wheels of Alameda County, CA; Eden Housing; and the Life Goes on Foundation. Published collaborations include the notable work "Flight Attendants, Coping with Trauma," a post-9/11 guide. Jennifer joined ACEP in 2018 through the Humanitarian Committee, aligning with her belief that wellness begins within, a sentiment she has reinforced through over three decades of leading group guided imagery and relaxation sessions for both adults and children.

Email: alfred.heath@yahoo.com

Alfred Heath has been a professional counselor for 30 years and an energy healing practitioner for 33 years. He studied multiple energy healing and energy psychology modalities before settling on Be Set Free Fast™ (BSFF) as his energy psychology method of choice and developing his own intention-and-life-energy based healing method ZeroPoint Intention™. BSFF was created by Dr. Larry Nims. When Nims retired in 2015, he designated Alfred as BSFF’s Master Trainer and primary educator and principal representative. 

Alfred is a retired United States Air Force Master Sergeant and recently retired from civilian federal government service. He conducts his part-time coaching, training and consulting practice mostly on line from his home in Savannah, GA.

Email: ryah99ki@gmail.com

Ryah’s service to ACEP includes the board; the humanitarian, board advancement and development committees, and the awards and scholarship task forces. Her diverse healing background includes humanistic, transpersonal, and energy psychology; Sufic and Buddhist practices; energy medicine, bodywork, breathwork, qi gong, sound healing, polyvagal yoga, and shamanism. She was a chaplain at Unity of Sedona and is a shamanic minister. Ryah was a licensed massage practitioner and headed the group of healing practitioners at a local Sedona healing center. She is a film screener and advisor for the Illuminate Film Festival.

Passionate about empowering others to connect with their higher wisdom, Ryah supports people to discover their own answers and participate in healing themselves and their communities. With a vision of healing trauma and spreading healing knowledge globally, she endeavors to assist others to infuse healing practices and consciousness into film and TV, and to inspire the spread of emotional, social, and cultural intelligence to those of all ages.

Email: julieg1561@gmail.com

Julie Lohse, a licensed social worker, presently contributes her expertise to Aetna, focusing on members with chronic illnesses. Armed with a master’s in social administration from Case Western Reserve University, specializing in adult mental health, Julie boasts over 30 years of rich experience in mental health and social services. Throughout her career, she has seamlessly transitioned between roles, from therapist for individuals, couples, and families to co-director of a community MH clinic, international adoption, substance abuse, family services, and criminal justice.

Beyond therapy, Julie's versatility shines as she has facilitated groups in the Psychology of Incarceration program, conducted stress management workshops, and taught meditation classes. A dedicated ACEP member since 2005, Julie's contributions extend to being the secretary for the Board from 2020 to 2022. Currently, she serves as the chair of the Quality Assurance subcommittee of the Education Committee, having been an active member for over a decade. She also serves on the Nominating Committee. A member of the National Guild of Hypnotists and the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, Julie holds certifications in Tapas Acupressure Technique, Heart Rhythm Meditation Instruction, Hypnotherapy, Interior Alignment, Medicine Wheel Feng Shui, and Aromatherapy.

Email: drosenberg@Averett.edu

Dr. David Rosenberg, PhD, earned his counseling psychology doctorate from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1993. He has been at Averett University since 1995, serving as a Professor, Co-Chair, and former Division Chair of the Department of Psychology. As an Eden Energy Medicine Certified Practitioner and Authorized Instructor, a T'ai Chi Fundamentals® Level 4 certified instructor, and a Reiki Master Instructor, David is well-versed in holistic practices. He completed ACEP's Comprehensive Energy Psychology training (Levels 1 and 2). In his clinical practice spanning two decades, David integrates energy medicine and psychology to guide clients in mind-body-spirit practices.

Beyond teaching, David is a licensed clinical psychologist, dedicating half his time to clinical practice. As a health educator, he conducts dynamic seminars and workshops through LifeCourse Wellness, focusing on holistic health topics like energy medicine and psychology. Active in ACEP for over eight years, David serves on the Education Committee and has been a repeat presenter at the annual conference. In his leisure, he enjoys photography, Qigong, T'ai Chi Chuan, movies, hiking, and escapes to Marco Island, Florida, to stroll his favorite beach and spend time with his puppy.

Email: kerri.info@awakenhcs.com

Kerri is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Holistic Coach with practices in Newburyport, MA and Portsmouth, NH. Through her business, Awaken Holistic Counseling Services, LLC, she seamlessly integrates energy psychology methods, holistic healing tools, and intuitive education in her work with private and community clients. She has empowered countless individuals, fostering improved life quality, heightened self-confidence, and stronger relationships. Additionally, Kerri serves as a community educator, a certified Reiki practitioner, and an EFT practitioner. Some of Kerri's specialties include working with Highly Sensitive People (HSP)/Empath clients, Deliberate Dating coaching programs to attract one's Perfect-Fit-Partner, and helping people better communicate their needs and boundaries to others.

Since joining ACEP in 2017, Kerri has taken on influential roles, such as two-term Director-at-large for the Board of Directors, Facilitator of the NextGen Community of Practice, and Massachusetts State Rep for the Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology (ACEP). Embracing the belief in the boundless potential for healing and growth, Kerri, thriving as an adult with ADHD, not only empowers others but models and encourages them to step boldly into their own greatness.

Email: DrSaretteZecharia@gmail.com

Dr. Sarette Zecharia, PhD, DCEP, EHP-C, CIMHP, a distinguished clinical psychologist based in Scottsdale, is the visionary founder of Lighthouse Psychology, LLC Arizona. In her private practice, Sarette seamlessly integrates Gestalt and Jungian therapy with holistic principles from energy psychology and Eastern medicine. As an accomplished Ayurveda Practitioner and Clinical Qigong Instructor, she brings a rich tapestry of expertise to her therapeutic approach.

 For over three decades, Sarette has passionately devoted herself to empower individuals that grapple with various forms of pain—spiritual, mental, emotional, physical, and energetic—with an unwavering commitment to enhancing their overall quality of life. Specializing in chronic pain, PTSD, trauma, anxiety/depression, and dream work, her practice reflects a personalized and comprehensive healing approach. Globally recognized, she serves as a sought-after speaker, founded a doctoral internship/fellowship program in Integrative Pain and Energy Psychology, and holds certifications in Gestalt, Ayurveda, Clinical Qigong, and specialized training in Nutrition for Mood and Pain Management. Sarette actively serves as a consultant, previously chairing the CEP committee and playing a pivotal role as a CEP Trainer.