Daniela Simmons, PhD, TEP, is an international trainer and supervisor, the creator of the Tele’Drama method, and the founder and director of the International Tele'Drama Institute, which has welcomed thousands of people from 82 countries.Dr. Simmons is the 2022 ASGPP recipient of the Innovator's Award for the creation of the Tele'Drama method and the 2024 recipient of the Hannah B. Weiner Award for outstanding dedication as a leader of the ASGPP. Dr. Simmons is the immediate past President of the American Society in Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama (ASGPP). Her professional experience, both in Europe and the US, spans educational, research, and consultancy work in the social sciences and mental health. She received training in the psychoanalysis of group relations in organizations at the Tavistock Institute of Human Relations in London. She has been utilizing action methods since 1995 in Europe and since 2005 in the US.

TIAN DAYTON, MA, PHD., T.E.P is the author of sixteen books most recently The ACoA Trauma Syndrome, Emotional Sobriety, Trauma and Addiction:, Forgiving and Moving On, The Living Stage, and Relationship Trauma Repair, a model for using sociometry and psychodrama to resolve issues related to relationship trauma. Tian Dayton has a masters in educational psychology and a PhD in clinical psychology, is a board certified trainer in psychodrama and a licensed creative arts therapist. Dr. Dayton has been a guest expert on NBC, CNN, MSNBC, Montel, Rikki Lake, John Walsh, Geraldo. Dr. Dayton blogs for The Huffington Post and Counselor Magazine. Dr. Dayton is the director of The New York Psychodrama Training Institute and was on the faculty at NYU for eight years teaching psychodrama. She is a nationally renowned speaker, expert, and consultant in psychodrama, trauma and addiction. Senior Fellow at Meadows Behavioral Healthcare.

Antonina Garcia, LCSW, EdD, TEP, RDT/BCT, CGPAntonina Garcia, LCSW, EdD, TEP, RDT/BCT, CGP trains psychodramatists nationally and internationally and is in private practice.

She is co-author of Sociodrama: Who's in Your Shoes? 2nd ed. with Patricia Sternberg, published by Praeger Press.

She is the recipient of multiple ASGPP honors, including the David A. Kipper Scholar’s Award (1996), the J.L. Moreno Award (2008), the President’s Award (2020/21), and the William Moreno Award (2024).

Formerly she was Coordinator of the Creative Arts Therapeutic Settings Option at Brookdale Community College and at NYU's Drama Therapy Program. She is past Executive Editor of the Journal of Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama and past Chair of the American Board of Examiners.

Leticia Nieto, PsyD, LMFT, TEP is a leadership coach, psychotherapist, and educator specializing in liberation and equity, cultural responsiveness, motivational patterning, and evolutionary creativity. Her 2010 book, Beyond Inclusion, Beyond Empowerment: A Developmental Strategy to Liberate Everyone, is an accessible analysis of the dynamics of oppression and supremacy that offers readers ways to develop skills to promote social justice.  Dr. Nieto is internationally recognized for her expertise addressing social justice concerns from a developmental ecological perspective including orienting to systemic transformation, survivance, song and poetry, relational repair, joy, radical rest, intersectional coalition, and reparative and restorative justice. Dr. Nieto brings an enlivening approach to coaching, training and facilitation, drawing on expressive techniques and embodied practices to involve participants deeply and create opportunities for insight and change. Since 1980 she has successfully brought her skills to higher education and other learning communities (including three decades teaching in a graduate program in counseling), to service providers in helping agencies, to workplace teams, and to many community groups.  Dr. Nieto’s activism, scholarship, and consulting work are informed by living at the borders of intersectional experience. In addition to degrees in clinical psychology and human development, she is certified in Action Methods, including Psychodrama, Playback Theater, and Theater of the Oppressed. Leticia is a Senior Faculty at the International Tele'Drama Institute (ITI).  She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (WA) and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor.  

Clinical psychologist and certified psychotherapist (by the Swedish State). Born in Riga, Latvia, and living in Sweden since the Second World War. Certified and mainly trained by Zerka Moreno (CP 1982) and TEP by the Nordic Board of Examiners (1995). Supervisor and teacher for the European Institute of Psychodrama. Co-founder of the Stockholm Institute for Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy.Founder and leader of the Latvian Moreno Institute, providing education in Latvia since 1989. Also conducted seminars in other Baltic countries, Scandinavia, Europe, and Ukraine.Clinically working with addiction, abuse, incest, and crisis intervention for 40 years and serving as a supervisor (within Social Welfare, Psychiatry, and Criminal Justice, etc.). Trained as a Body Psychotherapist (teacher and supervisor) and integrates this with Psychodrama. Received family therapy training mainly from Satir, Kempler, Kirschenbaum, and Grammar.Co-writer of three books.
Holder of a pilot's license.
Phone: +46 702884545
Email: inara.erd@gmail.com

Bojana Glusac Draslar, Psychotherapist, Trainer, Supervisor, Educator International Tele’Drama Institute (ITI) Psychodrama Institute Belgrade European Association for Psychotherapy. Bojana graduated in Special Education and Rehabilitation at Belgrade University. Upon fulfillment of required conditions in qualifications, experience and expertise, she received the ECP (European Certificate for Psychotherapy), and the title of educator in psychotherapy and supervisor. Her work is focused on Individual and group psychotherapy clients within a private clinic that she founded 1999., developing a new psychotherapeutic approach TP (Transpersonal Psychodrama), wellbeing programs, stress management and self-care, international leadership assessment, executive coaching, leadership development and teambuilding. She has written 3 books on Mindfulness and Wellbeing, as well as articles on psychotherapy and other people's development approaches. 

Andrea Wilches
International Tele'Drama Institute (ITI) Board of Directors & Faculty
Psicodrama Grupal Pavlovsky institute. Identidad Recovery Center. Andrea Wilches, born in Colombia, currently living in Argentina, is psychologist, psychotherapist, psychodramatist, actor, psychodrama trainer, International Tele'Drama Institute (ITI) member of the Board of Directors & Faculty. Trainer at Psicodrama Grupal Pavlovsky Institute; Identidad Recovery Center. Trained as a psychodramatist, by Dr. Mónica Zuretti, and by Dr. Eduardo "tato" Pavlovsky and Maria Carolina Pavlovsky in Dramatic Multiplications psychodrama. Andrea she has a certification in mindfulness by the University Favaloro in Argentina; a certification in disability as a social and political category by the University of Buenos Aires; and is also a Kabbalah student. Currently she works with psychodrama groups in the treatment and recovery of addiction and as an one on one therapist.
 

Chantal Nève-Hanquet, Member of the Centre for Psychosociological Training and Intervention (CFIP) International Tele’Drama Institute (ITI) Faculty. Chantal Nève Hanquet is a Belgian psychologist, trainer in psychodrama and in Family Therapy, and Jungian Psychoanalyst. She is a founding member, as well as a treasurer of the Federation of European Psychodrama Training Organizations (FEPTO) and a member of the International Association for Group Psychotherapy and Group Process (IAGP). Chantal and Agathe are both members of the Centre for psychosociological training and intervention (CFIP), Belgium, and are authors of “Facilitating Collective Intelligence, a Handbook for Trainers, Coaches, Consultants and Leaders” (Routledge 2019). Faciliter l'Intelligence collective, 35 fiches pour innover, coconstruire et accompagner le changement (Eyrolles, 2018)

Leigh E. Johnson, JD, PAT
Lawyer, Trial Consultant, Psychodramatist


Leigh E. Johnson is a trial lawyer, trial consultant, certified psychodramatist, and the founder of Trial Whisperer™ and Law Focus Groups™. Known for transforming complex legal matters into compelling human stories, she blends her courtroom experience with psychodrama, narrative structure, and role theory to reach jurors where it matters most: the heart.A graduate and faculty member of the Trial Lawyers College (TLC), Leigh has consulted on criminal, civil, and white-collar cases involving over $193 million in legal expenses, multi-million-dollar verdicts, and presidential pardons. Her clients span from major corporate executives and families in crisis to wrongfully convicted youth.With a background in military communications, air traffic control, and biotechnical engineering, Leigh brings a rare blend of creativity, precision, and problem-solving to every case. She is the author of Building The Case, a framework for advocacy rooted in storytelling, role theory, and truth-telling in action.

Leigh holds a Juris Doctor, cum laude, from John F. Kennedy University School of Law, graduating #1 in her class in 2003. Her academic achievements include a BS in Biology (with honors) from CSUH, and an AA in Social Sciences from Merritt College. She has also completed postgraduate work in psychology and storytelling, and graduated from Gerry Spence’s Trial Lawyers College in 2009.Certified by the American Board of Examiners in Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy since 2019, Leigh is a member of AAJ, NACDL, CLA, and TLC, and has been recognized annually by Super Lawyers. She is the proud recipient of the 2024 Zerka T. Moreno Award (ASGPP).

Erica Hollander holds a J.D. and a Ph.D. and is a Trainer, Educator, Practitioner in Psychodrama, Sociometry, And Group Psychotherapy and a long-time supporter of Teledrama.  Erica Hollander is Carl Hollander’s widow and has herself been doing psychodrama since the early 90s.  She practiced law for 33 years, then got a PhD in Human Communication Studies; and then taught at several colleges. Now she is retired and paints and writes poetry and dotes on her husband Tom and her dog Tabitha. She has published in psychodrama and provided workshops and training online and face to face.  She is the head of the Denver Psychodrama Collective. Erica is pursuing the International Tele'Drama Certification Program Level 3.


Consultant of the Tele'Drama Research and Publications Team (TRPT)

 

Márcia Karp M.A. TEP, UKCP IAGP, FEPTO, BPA; UKCP International Tele’Drama institute (ITI) Faculty. Honorary and Founding member FEPTO; Distinguished Fellow, Past Board IAGP; President Emeritus And Lifetime Achievement Award BRITISH PSYCHODRAMA ASSOCIATION, Fellow and JLMoreno Lifetime Achievement Award ASGPP; Co-editor “Psychodrama: Inspiration and Technique”; “Psychodrama Since Moreno”, “ The Handbook of Psychodrama”; International Trainer, Supervisor, Private Psychotherapist

Catherine D. Nugent, LCPC, TEP Laurel Psychodrama Training Institute. Catherine D. Nugent, LCPC, TEP, is Executive Director/Principal Trainer with Laurel Psychodrama Training Institute in Laurel, Maryland. Cathy also maintains a private psychotherapy practice with specialties in use of integrative and experiential approaches to help heal trauma, attachment injuries, challenging life transitions, and other concerns. In addition to her training in psychodrama, Cathy is trained in sensorimotor psychotherapy and is certified in Imago Relationship Therapy. Cathy is Immediate Past President, American Board of Examiners in Psychodrama, Sociometry & Group Psychotherapy. She is the humble and grateful recipient of the ASGPP’s 2019 J.L. Moreno Award for Lifetime Achievement.

Dr. Hande Karakılıç Üçer is a psychiatrist in clinical private practice, providing medical treatment and psychotherapy in Turkish, English, and French. She is an Assistant Psychodrama Trainer at the Dr. Abdülkadir Özbek Psychodrama Institute in Ankara, Türkiye, and an Expressive Arts Therapist. She is currently a trainer at TELE’DRAMA.Dr. Karakılıç Üçer has worked with refugees through IOM and UNHCR, coordinated various disaster psychosocial interventions, and worked for the Turkish Security Forces. She has also undertaken organizational work for embassies, the EU Delegation, and other institutions in Ankara.She served as Secretary General (2017–2020) of the International Society for Health and Human Rights (ISHHR) and is a member of the International Association of Group Psychotherapy and Group Processes (IAGP) and its Trauma Task Force, the American Society of Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama (ASGPP) and its Trauma Task Force, and the Federation of Psychodrama Training Organizations (FEPTO) Peace Building and Conflict Transformation Task Force.

Carlos A Raimundo, MD, ASGPP, AANZPA
Dr. Carlos A Raimundo is an Argentinean Psychodramatist living in Australia with medical, psychiatric, psychotherapeutic, theological and business training. He's the creator of the Play of Life, for which he received the ASGPP 2002 Innovator Award. He bases his work on traditional psychodrama and neuroscience. He's the creator of RCompass digital sociometry and the Play of Life app, a digital psychodrama.

Anath Garber, trained by J.L Moreno and Zerka T. Moreno, was on the faculty of the Moreno Institute in New York City,has conducted and workshops nationally and internationally, and has been in private practice in New York City since 1975. She introduced psychodrama to the treament of stuttering, alcoholsim, andweight control through mind control, as well as spiritual growth.For 20 years she conducted groups combining psychoanalytic treatment with psychodrama.Currently most of her psychodrama sessions are conducted over the phone, a necessary adaptation to clientele in different parts of USA and the globe. She blends those with 'focusing' and” mindfulness” . She’s been quoted in various magazines :'Essence' and 'Body and Mind' and "Mode." Her work was featured on Oprah's OWN network. On Executive council of ASGPP, Fellow 1975

Rebecca Walters, MS TEP Is Director of the Hudson Valley Psychodrama Institute in NY which, founded in 1989, is currently a very active psychodrama training center offering workshops, five-day intensives, advanced directing intensives and ongoing trainings. With over 30 years of inpatient experience, Rebecca was Director of Child and Adolescent Psychodrama Services at Four Winds Psychiatric Hospital in New York where she ran psychodrama groups on both inpatient and outpatient units. While at Four Winds Rebecca developed a model of using action methods to teach Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills. She was a consultant for MD Anderson Cancer Center teaching communication skills to medical personnel. Rebecca has presented at nationally and internationally on Sociodrama and Psychodrama with Children, with Adolescents and on DBT in Action. She is the author of several articles about the use of sociodrama with children and in using sociodrama to teach interpersonal skills. Rebecca has been a member of the ASGPP since 1977 and is a Fellow. She received the ASGPP’s 2005 Collaborator’s Award, 2010 Hannah Wiener Award for Service to the ASGPP and was the 2028 recipient of the JL Moreno Award for Lifetime Achievement. This is her third term on the council.

Tanja L. Lee, Ph.D., RDT, CTP-2, SP, is a member of the International Tele ’Drama Institute, an adjunct professor of education and psychology, and a SAG-AFTRA performer. She is also a certified listening hour guide and credentialed multiple-subject teacher. With an MA in Education and a PhD in Psychology, she serves as a virtual experiential group therapist in an intensive outpatient program for individuals of all ages. Drawing on her expertise, she offers emotional wellness workshops and coaching, and trains those pursuing the Registered Drama Therapist credential via the alternative track.

Roberto Bonanomi, PsyD

Senior trainer and coach @ HURACT (Italy and Switzerland).
MSc Occupational Psychology (University of London, Birkbeck), MSc Computer Science (University of Milan).
Roberto is an enthusiastic trainer with exemplary communication and digital skills gained in 15+ years of management in digital companies and 15+ years as a psychologist, psychotherapist and organisational coach.
Roberto is a fully licensed Psychologist/PsyD. in Italy and a Graduate Member of the British Psychological Society in the UK (MBPsS).
 

Jaye Moyer, LCSW, TEP, is a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor practicing on zoom and in the  Hudson Valley New York . She works with individuals, couples, and groups and also provides training, consultation, and mentoring to mental health practitioners. Jaye has recently completed Tele'Drama Certification Level 2.  

She  is  a committed meditation  practitioner and draws on embodied mindfulness and buddhist psychology  in all of her work. She is a facilitating Dharma and Meditation teacher  with Barre Center for Buddhist Studies Daily Sit. Deeply interested in creativity , she incorporates humor, spontaneity, playfulness and intuition and nature.She looks forward to co-leading with Daniela Simmons a certification course : Integration of Buddhist Psychology and Psychodrama. She was former clinical supervisor and coordinator of group services at GMHC and former part time adjunct  faculty at New York University Graduate School of Social Work. She was co-creator of the  Time In Series that integrated mindfulness and compassion practices with psychodrama, sociometry and group psychotherapy 
 

Ichiro (Okkady) Okajima, M.A.
Certified Tele’Drama Practitioner (CTP – Level 3)Ichiro Okajima, known to most as Okkady, is the Chair of the Department of Psychology at Nishikyushu University, Japan. His journey with psychodrama began during his university years, where he was deeply drawn to the mental enrichment and sense of camaraderie the method fosters. Motivated by this passion, he pursued graduate research on psychodramatic warm-ups and earned a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology.In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Okkady joined the TELE'DRAMA team in search of innovative and adaptable approaches to psychodrama. He has been a regular participant in the TELE'DRAMA International Conference since its second year in 2021.At the 6th International Tele'Drama Conference in 2025, Okkady will co-host the Opening Ceremony and organize a Plenary Session featuring student participation—continuing his commitment to education, connection, and the evolution of psychodrama.

Nathalie is a Psychodrama therapist (MA), Executive coach and Senior trainer at HURACT. She grew up in France and lives today in Israel.
After a first career as a strategic consultant and business executive, Nathalie was called to reorient her career on helping people and organizations to connect to their unique purpose and act from a space of presence and awareness.
Besides her practice as a therapist, she works with entrepreneurs and executives to help them develop their leadership skills and foster the collective intelligence of their teams. She uses action methods and other alternative techniques to help leaders go beyond rational thinking and connect to their emotional and body intelligence.

Betty Garrison, BFA, IPNB, MA, MS, CMHC, CTP-3

Betty G Garrison is a psychotherapist who has been studying and practicing Psychodrama for over 10 years. Though not native to technology, Betty has become involved in Tele’Drama during the pandemic and is enjoying her training in this unique modality that can be shared internationally; she is excited about the endless possibilities, of which Moreno foretold. Betty has earned three Master’s Degrees: Theatre Ed/Drama Therapy, Film/Social Reform, and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has over 30 years of experience using theatre arts and film to engage, inspire, educate, and heal children, adolescents, and adults.

Ron Wiener, PhD is a former honorary President of the British Psychodrama Association and is a senior sociodrama trainer awarded a lifetime achievement award in 2008. He co-lead the Sociodrama and Action Methods Training (MPV/SAM) in England with Di Adderley. He has run trainings and/or workshops across Europe, in Russia, China and India as well as in America and Australia. He is a founding member of ISCAN, the International Sociodrama and Creative Action Network and has been a consultant for the seven international sociodrama conferences. He is co-editor of Sociodrama in a Changing World, and author of Drug Taking Among School Children (which was his PhD thesis), Creative Training, and Community Action: The Belfast Experience, in addition to numerous articles and book chapters. In his semi retirement Ron loves being a grandparent and also co-facilitates a fortnightly sociodrama support group for Ukrainian psychodramatists as well as being a mentor, community theatre director and poet. Ron has recently published The Barefoot Therapist (using the pen name Brian Shepherd).
 

Dr. Stan Ingman, a gerontology professor and president of "A Future Without Poverty," has dedicated his career to teaching and researching healthcare trends globally. With expertise in senior healthcare, he encourages proactive preparation for advanced care. His work began in 1963 in Algeria, focusing on rural development and healthcare access, later contributing to sustainable solutions for villages in Mexico and Costa Rica. At Universiy of North Texas, he co-created the Center for Public Service, emphasizing sustainable community building through education, empowerment, and public health initiatives, with a vision for long-term social change and poverty reduction.

Colleen Baratka, MA, TEP Private Practice, ASGPP, DVPC, BIAPA, IAEDP. Colleen Baratka, MA TEP is a Fellow of the American Society of Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama. In clinical practice for over 30 years, she has developed psychodrama and trauma programs at The Belmont and Renfrew Centers in Philadelphia, PA. Colleen is a published author on the topics of trauma and eating disorders and currently is in private practice where she specializes in trauma and co-current issues. She works with individuals, families and groups, she also guests lectures at local universities, organizations and treatment centers. Recently , Colleen has begun study into traumatic brain injuries ,trauma, and the role spontaneity plays in recovery.

Mirjana Stanković has been an independent transpersonal psychodrama practitioner since 2018. She is currently pursuing the Tele'Drama Certification Program and is the co-chair of the Tele'Drama Research and Publications Team (TRPT). Mirjana is a near-native speaker and a professional user of the English language, with an M.A. degree in English Language and Literature and a significant record of publishing internationally. She is experienced in working with culturally diverse and multinational groups across the globe. She cherishes a highly humanistic approach, looking into each person as a whole, sufficient, creative, and unique individual beyond birth in this particular existence. Mrs.Stanković is particularly dedicated to offering group or individual Tele'Drama support to clients challenged and troubled by a variety of autoimmune neurodegenerative responses of obscure etiology. The focus of her group psycho-social support and psychodrama work is on looking into the root causes of autoimmune reactions, identifying and activating autonomous healing potentials, and restoring the lost contact with the feminine, creative, spontaneous, and authentic parts of an individual.

Domenico Agresta, CSPP (Center of Psychology and Psychosomatic Medicine); IAGP. Domenico Agresta, formerly Trustee of the Gordon Lawrence Foundation, now a member of Social Dreaming International Network. He works with SD studying Rites of Passage, Religious Rites and cultural contexts. He is a clinical psychologist, psychotherapist, group-analyst and psycho-oncologist. He is the President of the Centre for the Study of Psychology and Psychosomatic Medicine (CSPP) and studies the correlation between mind and body, links to anthropology and group processes using dreams icons. Board Member of the Italian Society of Psychosomatic Medicine (SIMP). Academic Member of the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA); Chair of Family Therapy Section and Chair of Webinars Committee in IAGP (The International Association for Group Psychotherapy and Group Processes). He teaches at University and at Schools of Psychotherapy. He lives and work in Pescara (Italy).

Maurizio Gasseau, was born in Rome, Associate Professor of Dynamic Psychology at the University of Aosta. Past Chair of the Psychodrama Section of International Association of Group Psychotherapy and Group Processes IAGP, Jungian analyst, honorary member of ARPA member of International Association of Analytic Psychology IAAP, certified psychotherapist and psychodramatist in Italy as well as leader of training groups all over the world. His main interests are researching dream interpretations in individual analysis and in psychodrama and group psychotherapy, social dreaming matrix, and working on transgenerational topics. He developed the Jungian Psychodrama method and theory in 1980 and Psychodramatic Social Dreaming in 2004. Director of Training of Postgraduate School of Psychotherapy IPAP – Institute of Analytical Psychology and Psychodrama.  Board member IAGP 2003 - 2012 and 2015 - 2025. Co-chair of IAGP Education Committee.
Co - chair of FEPTO Task Force for Peace Building and Conflict Transformation to share experience in intercultural work, working with refugees, using Morenian tools.
He led training groups in 46 countries in presence.
Author of more than ninety publications on group psychotherapy and research, such as Lo psicodramma junghiano co-edited with Giulio Gasca and  Il sogno. Dalla psicologia analitica allo psicodramma junghiano co-edited with Riccardo Bernardini. 
He received the Federation European Psychodrama Training Organization Excellence Award in 2017 and the Fellowship Award of the International Association of Group Psychotherapy and Group Processes IAGP in 2022
 
 

Nancy S. Scherlong, LCSW, PTR, CJT, M/S
Change Your Narrative LCSW PLLC
Psychotherapy, Wellness Coaching, Expressive Arts Workshops / ConsultationShe is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Coach based in Mt. Kisco, Westchester County, NY, and Ridgefield and Norwalk, Fairfield County, CT. She also works as a Workshop Facilitator and is a Registered Poetry/Biblio and Journal Therapist and Mentor/Supervisor in private practice. With a Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution, she holds licenses in both New York and Connecticut. Her training includes Foundations and Wellness from the Mentor Coach Foundation, along with a Registration and Mentor/Supervisor credential in Biblio/Poetry Therapy from the International Federation for Biblio-Poetry and Journal Therapy.With over 20 years of experience in therapeutic writing, action methods of psychodrama, and trauma processing techniques, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her practice. Additionally, she is a Certified Holistic Health Counselor from the Integrative Institute for Nutrition in NYC, integrating wellness and healthy lifestyle choices into all aspects of her work.She has extensive experience in group facilitation, specializing in communication and relationship enhancement, women in transition, adolescent socialization skills, creativity seminars, corporate wellness and stress management, and healthy living workshops. Her psychodynamic and educational groups often utilize the arts as a path to wellness, making her a versatile practitioner in the field of mental health and holistic care. 
 

Dr. Jaffer holds the position of senior lecturer at San José State University (SJSU) where she teaches an undergraduate course in Human Understanding and Development as well as master’s level courses in the Department of Counselor Education. Additionally, she assumes the role of undergraduate course coordinator and Student Success and Advocacy Team Lead within the esteemed Lurie College of Education at SJSU. Dr. Jaffer also extends her expertise as adjunct faculty at California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) where she teaches a psychodrama course within the Dramatherapy Program.

Her academic journey culminated with a doctorate in Educational Leadership from SJSU in 2022 with a dissertation on the pivotal role of school counselors as social justice advocates. Dr. Jaffer’s educational foundation includes a master’s degree is in Counseling and Guidance from SJSU, and an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Theatre from Agnes Scott College.
Dr. Jaffer became a certified Practitioner of Psychodrama in 2000 and in 2007 was certified as a Trainer, Educator and Practitioner of Psychodrama. Dr. Jaffer established Moreno Institute West (MIW) and Action Centered Teaching Strategies with other Bay Area trainers. MIW was a training and teaching organization that specialized in the use of Psychodrama and Group Psychotherapy in diverse fields. ACTS provided summer training courses for teachers to integrate action methods in the classroom. More recently, Dr. Jaffer provides occasional professional development at treatment centers for individuals in recovery from substance use disorders.

Dr. Jaffer is currently a member of the American Counseling Association, American Psychology Association, American Society of Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama, American School Counselors Association, North American Drama Therapy Association, and American Association of University Women.

Gulsen Buyuksahin
Psychological Counselor, MA
Psychodramatist (Istanbul Psychodrama Institute)
Pursuing the Tele'Drama Certification Program Level 3
Chair of the Tele'Drama Marketing & Publicity Team (TMPT)

Gülşen Büyükşahin holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychological Counseling and a master’s degree in Developmental Psychology. She has over 15 years of experience working with children and youth as a psychological counselor in schools and psychology centers across Türkiye, where she conducted both individual and group sessions and administered various intelligence and developmental assessments.A graduate of the Istanbul Zerka Moreno Institute, Gülşen completed extensive training in both child and individual psychodrama. She has directed psychodrama groups with children, adults, and parents for over five years. Since relocating to the United States in 2019, she has continued her professional development through Academic English courses at Portland Community College and ongoing training with the International Tele’Drama Institute. She is currently pursuing certification as a practitioner with the American Board of Examiners in Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy (ABE).Gülşen has presented at multiple ASGPP and Tele’Drama conferences, including a session at the 2025 Tele’Drama Festival that was later developed into a published article. She has also served as a Tele’Drama Virtual Assistant (TVA), supporting numerous online workshops, and was a member of the ASGPP Education Committee.Her current practice includes offering individual and group sessions in online, hybrid, and in-person formats, with expertise in developmental issues, emotional growth, learning processes, and personal development.

Daniela Tahirova, MEd, MPsy Therapeutic Center "Vitae" International Tele’Drama Institute (ITI) Representative Certified Tele’Drama Practitioner. Daniela Tahirova has a master's degree in pedagogy, speech therapy and psychology. Psychodrama Therapist, Director of Psychodrama with Children, Family Therapist. She is conducting therapy groups for children - according to the method of A.Aachinger and W.Hall and for adults under the supervision of Dr. Daniela Simmons. Daniela Tahirova is the director of the "Psychodrama and Action Methods in Education" program, which is certified by the Ministry of Education and Science at the Adler Institute-Bulgaria. Founder and part of the board of the Balkan Association of Psychodrama, Sociodrama and Active Methods. She trains, practices and teaches Teledrama in Bulgaria. Co-leader in the Bulgarian groups of Dr. Daniela Simmons.

Anna Kononenko, CTP-Level 1 (Serbia)Psychotherapist & Group Facilitator
Creating safe, expressive spaces for healing, identity integration, and emotional growth

Anna Kononenko is a psychologist, psychodrama therapist, family consultant, and art therapist with over 14 years of experience supporting individuals and groups in navigating early pain, life transitions, and identity exploration. She brings a warm, embodied presence to her work, integrating psychodrama, expressive arts, body-oriented techniques, and relational approaches in both online and in-person settings.Anna’s passion lies in supporting people across all stages of life — with a special focus on children. For over a decade, she has led the development of zAnima, a therapeutic and art center in Belgrade, Serbia, where psychology, play, and sand drawing meet to foster children’s emotional and social development.In her current practice, Anna facilitates psychodrama groups and individual therapy sessions in Belgrade and online via Zoom, creating welcoming spaces for clients across cultures and time zones. She offers services in English, Serbian, and Russian, combining action techniques with psychosomatic awareness, expressive modalities, and deep listening.As a Certified Tele'Drama Practitioner (CTP-Level 1), Anna is an active, heartfelt (and humorously self-described “lazy but passionate”) member of the international Tele’Drama community. Her online work embraces the creative use of digital space to bring authentic connection and healing to life.

Certified Tele'Drama Practicioner Level 3
Positive Psychotherapist & Jungian Sandplay Therapist with a heart for helping refugees overcome new challenges.
PhD, Positive Psychology & TELE’DRAMA student, Lyudmila is an expert in Fairytale Psychotherapy and excels at creating innovative ideas. With a passion for writing and a track record of successful therapy groups and individual sessions, she's active in conferences and continuously expanding her knowledge in Clinical Psychology at the Medical University of Plovdiv.
 

Psychologist, MA, Assistant Psychodramatist (IPI)
International Tele’Drama Institute (ITI), Certified Tele’Drama Practitioner Level 3.
Project Manager of the Tele'Drama International 70+ Support Initiative
Co-Director of the Tele'Drama Türkiye Regional Institute


Pembegül İlter is a psychologist and assistant psychodramatist, trained at the Istanbul Psychodrama Institute (IPI). Since 2008, she has provided psychological support to individuals, families, and children, specializing in family and relationship counseling, child and adolescent behavior, learning disabilities, and ADHD. Pembegül conducts individual therapy as well as group sessions that focus on personal development, social skills, self-expression, and creativity.

After the pandemic, she expanded her work to online platforms and leads support groups, workshops aimed at improving psychological well-being.

She uses Psychodrama, Tele’Drama, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approaches. She continues her training as a Certified Tele’Drama Practitioner Level Three (CTP-3).

In addition to her therapeutic work, she is musician in the Istanbul Playback Theater, and a Certified Listening Hour Guide.
 

Müjdegül Z. Karaca is a gynecologist based in Turkiye with 17 years of experience currently in a clinical private practice. She is also a reproductive health expert working with women who have sexual difficulties. She studied and developed a curriculum on women's sexual and reproductive health during migration or disasters" on behalf of the SIHHAT project, which is conducted by the Turkish government and with the support of the EU. She is a psychodrama co-therapist and is training in the International Tele’Drama Institute (ITI).  She received her basic psychodrama education from the Turkish Federation of Psychodrama Associations under supervision of TEPs Ozlem Ulutas Akarken and Hande Karakilic Ucer. She is a member of Anka Association of Group Psychotherapies & Psychodrama. She loves to produce content for social media to spread awareness on women’s health. She is willing to take place in more socio- drama applications after facing the tragic earthquakes which happened in February in South-Eastern Turkiye.

Svetlana Iloski is Clinical psychologist, Psychodrama therapist, Tele’Drama Practitioner (Level 3) and EMDR Practitioner. She is a qualified and experienced professional with expertise in psychological and neuropsychological assessments, diagnosis, and evaluation of clients with psychiatric, neurological and co-occurring disorders, as well as group and individual psychotherapy in the interest of mental health prevention and treatment.

Violeta Kadieva, Ph.D., LMFT-S, AAMFT Approved Supervisor received her doctoral degree from Texas Tech University. She has worked as a marriage and family therapist for about 10 years and is currently an Associate Professor at Texas Wesleyan University. She has published articles and presented workshops and posters at numerous conferences, including WAMFT, AAMFT, APA, TAMFT and International Family Therapy World Conference.

Colour Specialist and Global Ambassador Mark Wentworth has been studying and working with the transformational power of colour for thirty-eight years, his speciality is Archetypal Colour Psychology. Mark is the creator and developer of Colour PsychoDynamics®, a three-phase growth and mentoring model helping you to reveal, become and live wholeheartedly on purpose. He is also the creator of the Dynamic Theatre methodology (Incognito Auxiliary).  Mark works with individuals, teams and businesses using the archetypal language of colour, dreams, drama, film and story as a way of exploring life potential, creative projects, new business, stuck points, team building and wellbeing. He is the author of Add a Little Colour to Your Life, and I am ME. He travels the world teaching and sharing his love of colour.

Wieser, Michael Alexander; Mag. Dr. phil., assistant professor, psychologist, psychodrama educator, and psychotherapist. Country co-coordinator of the Society for Psychotherapy Research; vice-president and an honorary member of the Society Moreno Museum; member of some editorial boards; maintains the international psychodrama bibliography; holder of the Zerka T. Moreno Award.
Office: Alpen-Adria-Universitaet Klagenfurt, Department of Psychology, Universitaetsstr. 65-67,
9020 Klagenfurt, Austria/Europe. 

Melanie Raimundo, is the Director of Active Learning International (ALI) with a Diploma in Counseling and currently studying a double degree in Psychology and Philosophy. In her time with ALI as a Relationship Coach and International Speaker and Presenter, Melanie has worked with corporate leaders & teams, executives of large organizations, refugees, small businesses, teenagers, families, and individuals. She is an Accredited Play of Life trainer and practitioner, founder, and head coach of Enneagram.rc and is a professional member of the International Enneagram Association (IEA). Her passion in everything she does is in helping people come back to themselves through self-acceptance and personal responsibility to move towards a life of goodness, humility, and reverence.

Desislava Klochkova is an educator with a master's degree in child and adolescent psychology and school psychology from Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski." She has completed training in fairy tale therapy and child therapy at the DPPB. She is a consultant in positive psychotherapy and is currently undergoing training in cognitive-behavioral therapy. In her work, she also applies the children's psychodrama method by Alfons Aichinger and Walter Holl. She is training in the Tele'Drama method at the International Tele'Drama Institute. Desislava has over 12 years of experience working with children and adolescents.
 

Elena Petrova holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology and a master's degree in Labor and Organizational Psychology. She has extensive experience in the field of Human Resources, with a focus on Training and Development, and has conducted her own training programs on topics such as Work-Life Balance, Stress Management, Emotional Intelligence, and more. Additionally, Elena is a certified Emotional Intelligence coach through BISEI, a group dynamics training coach, and a trainer applying the Tele'Drama method. For several years, she has also been managing her own center for child and personal development. At the center, Elena teaches German to children of all ages (from 2+ to 16+) and leads Emotional Intelligence groups for children. Her work with the youngest and older children is enriched by the additional knowledge and skills she has acquired through various training programs in Suggestopedia, the Waldorf-Steiner method, and Therapeutic Work with Children. Elena is currently continuing her development in the field of child work by training to become a certified therapist for SCREEN CHILDREN®.

Maya Maria Koleva is a psychologist specializing in children's therapy and early childhood development, with over 10 years of experience in counseling and therapeutic work with children who have special needs, as well as those facing emotional and behavioral challenges. She extends her expertise to working with parents and adults. Maya holds a bachelor's degree in psychology, a bachelor's degree in social pedagogy, and a master's degree in child-adolescent and school psychology from the University of Sofia. She is a certified psychotherapist and continues her therapeutic education in psychodrama, group therapy, analytical psychomotorics, and online counseling. She is an accomplished author and conducts training and therapy groups for children and parents, addressing issues related to parenting and parent-child interactions. Additionally, Maya leads sharing and emotional support groups for mothers of children up to 3 years old, providing a vital resource for early parental support.

Dr. Dione Simmons, PhD, LPC-S, AAMFT Approved Supervisor
Adjunct Professor, Texas A&M University–Kingsville
Clinical Director, Wellness Counseling Services, LLC | Arlington, TXDr. Dione Simmons is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S), an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, and has recently been appointed as an Adjunct Professor at Texas A&M University–Kingsville. She is the owner and clinical director of Wellness Counseling Services, LLC, a thriving private practice in Arlington, Texas, dedicated to serving individuals from diverse ethnic, racial, gender, and socioeconomic backgrounds.Dione holds a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy, awarded in December 2023. She earned her master’s degree from Amberton University in 2011 and a B.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling from Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in 1999.With over 17 years of experience working in Child Protective Services, Dr. Simmons brings a deep understanding of family systems and trauma-informed care. Her practice includes a community outreach program offering affordable counseling for individuals, couples, and families without insurance.As both a proud mother and an adult with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Dione is a passionate advocate for the neurodiverse and special needs community. She actively supports organizations that serve individuals with ASD and their families.A native of New Orleans—“WHO DAT!”—and the youngest of sixteen siblings, she was raised in a four-bedroom, one-bath home shared by eighteen people. That early experience taught her the value of patience, perseverance, and the power of human connection—principles she brings to her clinical work every day.

Assistant Clinical Director at Texas Wesleyan University

Dr. Candice Jones Ronemus is an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and has training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). With a deep commitment to mental health, Dr. Ronemus has dedicated her career to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and heal from trauma.Her professional journey has been marked by a passion for empowering clients through evidence-based therapeutic practices. Dr. Ronemus specializes in trauma-informed care, providing a safe and supportive environment for her clients to explore their experiences and work towards recovery. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Ronemus is an advocate for mental health awareness and education.

Certified psychological and grief counsellor with an emphasis on awareness, communication and empathy. Her focus is on bringing light to our inner resources to see how we are able to help ourselves and challenge our inherent beliefs, and accepting death as a natural part of life.

She is a healing practitioner with an additional degree in social work, and with her interdisciplinary approach to therapy, she combines transgenerational therapy and psychogenealogy. (Advanced Certificate of Practitioner in Psychogenealogy and Transgenerational Therapy)

Additionally, she is a certified EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) practitioner and is in the process of receiving her certification in holistic psychotherapy as well as in Tele'Drama and Psychodrama at the Moreno Institute in Germany.

She works with teenagers and adults in one-to-one sessions, and is able to conduct sessions in English, German or Romanian.

Dr. Scott Giacomucci, DSW, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAAETS, TEP, is the Director/Founder of the Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy in Media, Pennsylvania and Director of Trauma Services at Mirmont Treatment Center. He teaches trauma-focused psychodrama as an Adjunct Professor & Research Associate at Bryn Mawr College Graduate School of Social Work and as a Lecturer at University of Pennsylvania’s Doctorate in Clinical Social Work program. He is the author of Trauma-Focused Psychodrama: Experiential Therapy for Complex PTSD (Forthcoming, 2026) Social Work, Sociometry, & Psychodrama (2021, 500,000+ downloads), Trauma-Informed Principles in Group Therapy, Psychodrama, and Organizations (2023), along with multiple research studies, articles, and book chapters. Scott is recognized as a Certified Consultant in EMDR, a Board-Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD), and a Fellow of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress (FAAETS). His YouTube channel has over 500 free educational videos and reaches thousands of daily viewers. He has served two elected terms on the Executive Council of the American Society of Group Psychotherapy & Psychodrama (ASGPP), was a founding member of the Sociatry & Social Justice Committee, and currently co-chairs the Research Committee. Furthermore, he serves on the board of the Philadelphia Area Group Psychotherapy Society and the Social & Collective Trauma Committee of the International Association of Group Psychotherapy. He is Co-Chief-Editor of the Journal of Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy, Co-Chief-Editor of an international book series - Psychodrama in Counselling, Coaching, and Education, and served as book co-editor of Psychodrama in Education (2025) and Autobiography of a Genius (2019) by Jacob Moreno, the founder of psychodrama. Scott regularly presents at local/global events and has received various awards/recognition for his work.

Angeliki Lefa is a certified group psychotherapist and psychodramatist who has been conducting single and group therapy sessions in private practice since 2013. She has participated in numerous conferences both in Greece and abroad, thereby enriching her tools and versatility. She conducted her first psychodrama workshop at the 1st Hellenic Psychodrama Academy in 2015 and has since been conducting psychodrama support groups and workshops in corporate environments and private therapy establishments. Meanwhile, she has actively attended trainings specializing in the LGBTQIA+ community, OCD, and child and adolescent mental health, among others. Her university studies in English and German Translation and Interpretation complement her psychodramatic style and essence, both in Greek and in international environments. Her previous 20-year-long professional experience in editing and proofreading in the media has endowed her with a high level of computer literacy, particularly valuable in conducting online work. Her professional training in Tele’Drama further empowers her ability and efficiency in serving and spreading psychodrama and sociodrama throughout the world.

Myriam D. Savage (Mimi), PhD., RDT/BCT

Dr. Myriam Savage (Mimi) is a narrative trained drama therapist, board certified trainer, expressive arts life/ career coach and educator who develops and teaches both clinical and coaching curricula at California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco in the two master’s programs with concentrations in expressive arts. She is a core faculty member and associate professor in the Masters of Counseling Psychology and Expressive arts program as well as Expressive arts Coaching and Community Building program. As director of an international school for drama therapy (So Cal Drama Therapy Center), she coaches professional development and consults those on track for certification. She is a founding faculty member of the Arts and Healing Initiative (formerly UCLArts snd Healing) Social Emotional Arts (SEA) program. Her doctoral research centers on narrative, arts-based inquiry and the intersections of identity in adopted young women from foster care. Professor Savage presents internationally at conferences and authors peer-reviewed articles as an innovator of narrative, arts-based trauma care approaches using digital apps and drama therapy for participatory action research. She is currently writing and editing her book; a first-ever collaboration of leading BIPOC creative art therapists representing all the expressive arts modalities for Routledge/ Taylor & Francis publication titled: The Future of Black Creative Art Therapists: Practice, Pedagogy, and Preservation. Professor Savage has developed and manualized how to implement the arts for social activism, wellness, and education, facilitating international programs, and a myriad of schools, students and various professionals.

Hector Montalvo holds a bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology and a master’s degree in Emotional Intelligence. He is currently the director of Casa Luz Centre of Emotional Intelligence and has been practicing as a psychotherapist since 2003.His training in psychodrama began at the Mexican School of Psychodrama and Sociometry (EMPS) in 2000, and he continued his studies there until 2005. Hector has been an active participant in the Iberoamerican Congress of Psychodrama since 2011, serving as a facilitator and workshop speaker. Since 2013, he has also been teaching psychodrama in a master's program.Additionally, Hector contributed as a co-author to the book "Public and Simultaneous Sociodrama of Latin America: Scenes from the Towns," which was published by UNAM-CEIICH in 2004.

Osta Iwobi, M. Arch. International Tele’Drama Institute (ITI) Training. Osta Iwobi, M. Arch. was born in Nigeria and both lived and studied in various European countries where he graduated as an architect. He then studied at the Colorado Technical University, where he graduated with a Computer Science and Engineering degree. Osta speaks multiple languages. He lives in Dallas, TX, United States, where he works as an architect. Osta has always been interested in psychology and five years ago he started training at the Expressive Therapies Training Institute (ETTi) with director Daniela Simmons, PhD, TEP. Osta has been actively participating in the local psychodrama community and co-presenting at regional psychodrama communities.

Edward Schreiber, TEP
Director, Zerka Moreno Foundation | Fellow, ASGPP | Hannah B. Weiner Award RecipientEdward Schreiber is a certified Trainer, Educator, and Practitioner (TEP) in Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy. He is the Director of the Zerka Moreno Foundation (Zerka Foundation) and a core member of the Growing A New Heart Consortium of Trainers. A Fellow of the American Society of Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama (ASGPP) and recipient of the Hannah B. Weiner Award, Ed has dedicated his life to advancing the social justice applications of J.L. and Zerka Moreno’s work.He works extensively with the Social Microscope of Sociatry, an innovative approach grounded in Moreno’s vision for social transformation and healing. Ed is also a committed social justice activist, weaving sociometric and psychodramatic methods into community, educational, and therapeutic contexts.He is the co-author of the chapter on Psychodrama, Sociometry, Sociatry, and Group Psychotherapy in the acclaimed Kaplan & Sadock's Comprehensive Textbook of Psychiatry, and the editor of To Dream Again: A Memoir by Zerka Moreno.Edward provides national and international training through Mentored Programs of Study, continuing to inspire practitioners and communities through the deep legacy of Moreno’s methods.

Diane Adderley
Senior Trainer in Sociodrama &
Psychodrama Psychotherapist (BPA, UKCP)
Accredited Playback Theatre Trainer (APTT)

Diane Adderley lives and works in Manchester, UK and has been in private therapy practice for over 20 years. Together with Dr Ron Wiener, the founder, she co-directed the UK's only sociodrama training school (MPV/SAM) from 2006-2012. Recently, as a member of iSCAN (international Sociodrama and Creative Action Network), she has been delivering both training and experiential workshops online, particularly on topics connected to issues around age-ing, the pandemic and climate crisis. Diane was awarded the BPA's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021 and in 2022 was elected to the role of Honorary President of the BPA for a 5-year term. She enjoys writing about sociodrama and has contributed to three books on the topic, both as co-editor and chapter writer.

Dr. Joseph Dillard is a psychotherapist with over forty year's clinical experience treating individual, couple, and family issues. Dr. Dillard has extensive experience with transpersonal dreamwork, pain management, and meditation training. The creator of Integral Deep Listening (IDL), Dr. Dillard is the author of over twenty books on IDL, dreaming, nightmares, and meditation. He lives in Berlin, Germany.

Filipe De Moura
Dynamic Theatre World Association
International Tele’Drama Institute (ITI) Board of Directors & Faculty.
Filipe De Moura is a musician and artist who believes art is one of the best ways to positively transform humanity and the world. He, along with Mark Wentworth, created Dynamic Theatre (Incognito Auxiliary) and has been working with expressive arts for more than 15 years. Part of which also includes working with Colour Psycodynamics as well developing his own approach to music therapy. He studied Classical Singing at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama in London. On stage, he premiered the world renowned musical “The Phantom of the Opera” in Portugal, in the role of Raoul, in 2019.

Abrar Qari, MBBS and Saudi board Certified medical doctor in obstetrics and gynaecology, on process to be Certified as Tele’Drama practitioner CTP level 1, Certified Group coach, established online psychodrama club in Saudi Arabia empowering and educating about emotional intelligence
Also start an online Arabic Women circle to coach female how to grow in a soft power community and follow their inner calling

Karen Levin Moser LCSW, TEP is a licensed clinical social worker and certified psychodramatist who is a graduate of Bryn Mawr College School of Social Work and Social Research and the co-founder of Philadelphia Area Psychodrama Institute. Her career began in the addictions treatment field where she worked in inpatient dual diagnosis treatment and later created and directed an intensive outpatient program for addiction and mental health. Since then, she has maintained a private practice at the Healing Collective where she provides individual, group, and couple’s therapies as well as clinical training. In addition, she has been on the adjunct faculty at both Bryn Mawr College and West Chester University. She is a skilled clinician and teacher who utilizes a variety of treatment approaches with her clients including gestalt therapy, psychodrama, and EMDR. Her passion is in integrating a variety of treatment modalities to aid clients and other clinicians to do therapy in the present healing with compassion, authenticity, and confidence.

Mina discovered Psychodrama while searching for the best self-development approach. Very soon she realised it could be her professional future choice. Mina Lazetic was born in Belgrade, Serbia, where she completed her primary and secondary school education. Genuine interest in people, research and travel influenced her choice of faculty. She graduated in the University of Singidunum Belgrade Serbia, department of Tourism and Hospitality. Her first professional steps were in Hotel Sales Management. After that, she worked for Etihad Airways, the National Airline of the United Arab Emirates, where she was living and working for 3 years.  During that period she visited more than 50 countries and co-worked with more than 20 different nationalities in different situations and challenges. Currently, she is improving her knowledge in Psychodrama and other action methods. Also, she is in the process of obtaining a Certificate of Tele'Drama Practitioner.Mina is always ready to learn and upgrade her knowledge. She is a curious person with deep empathy for others. She is fluent in English and has a very developed organisational skill. Besides her professional interest, she is devoted to her family and her 2 year old daughter. 

Kirsty Weedon is a Psychodrama Psychotherapist, Outdoor Therapist and Supervisor working in private practice in the UK and online. She also has a background working in education, youth and community work and the outdoors, and is a Recognised Professional in Outdoor Learning, a member of the UK Association for Outdoor Therapy management committee and the British Psychodrama Association executive committee. Kirsty loves facilitating groups and has been privileged to be involved with Tele’drama over the last few years, and is delighted to be involved with this international conference.
 

Cristina Schmidt, Transgenerational Psychotherapy and Psychodrama, Sociodramatist Associate Professor, Bucharest University International Tele’Drama Institute (ITI) ASGPP, IAGP, ARPSIC. Associate Professor in Bucharest University, Founder Member of International Center for Psychogenealogy. He focuses his activity on transgenerational topics. He has delivered many workshops internationally: Asia, Europe and North Africa.

Heloisa Fleury, MA (Brazil)

Heloisa Fleury is a clinical psychologist and seasoned psychodramatist based in São Paulo, Brazil, with over 30 years of experience in private practice and academic teaching.She is the founder and coordinator of Aprender Vivo Teaching, Extension and Research Institute, and has served as faculty at the Instituto Sedes Sapientiae and the Medical School of the University of São Paulo. Heloisa has also served as treasurer of IAGP (2009–2012, 2021–2022), and was elected IAGP President for the 2022–2025 term.

She is the Editor-in-Chief of the Brazilian Journal of Psychodrama and has organized numerous books and published extensively in both Brazilian and international journals on psychodrama and group work Heloisa also served as President of the Brazilian Federation of Psychodrama (Febrap) and has held faculty and supervisory positions at multiple academic institutions. 

Hod Orkibi, PhD, is a tenured Associate Professor at the University of Haifa, Israel, where he serves as Chair of the Doctoral Program and founding director of the Drama & Health Science Lab. He has secured competitive research funding, published over 100 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, and regularly presents his work at international conferences. Dr. Orkibi is the President-Elect of the Society for the Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts (APA Division 10) and also teaches in the Drama Therapy Program at New York University.

Regina Sewell, PhD/ MEd, LMHC, PCC, TEP is Co-Director of the Center for Creative Action Strategies.  She is a licensed mental health counselor in New York and a licensed professional counselor in Ohio. Regina specializes in co-dependency, addictions, LGBT issues, stress management, and getting unstuck. She has a private therapy practice with offices in Hopewell Junction and Rhinebeck, NY. She is a Fellow of the American Society of Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama (ASGPP) and is president of the Hudson Valley Psychodrama Collective.  Regina also teaches Theatre Therapy at Russell Sage College in Troy, NY and Sociology at SUNY New Paltz.

Jennifer R. Salimbene, MSSW, LCSW-R, CASAC, CDAC, TEP is the Co-director of the Center for Creative Action Strategies and is the Director of the Addictions track at the Hudson Valley Psychodrama Institute. She has been Director of Clinical Services at several in and outpatient substance abuse programs including Lexington Center for Recovery in Dutchess County, NY and St. Christopher’s Inn at Graymoor in Garrison, NY. She has over 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist. She has a clinical supervision and private therapy practice with offices in Hopewell Junction and Rhinebeck, NY, a Fellow of the American Society of Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama (ASGPP), and a graduate of the School of Playback Theatre.
 

Tamar Pelleg, MA, CP is a Board-Certified Psychodrama Practitioner and NLP Master Practitioner with a master's degree in counselling from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Trained by Dr. Peter Pitzele in Bibliodrama, she specializes in integrating psychodramatic methods with reflective-writing techniques. Tamar leads innovative Bibliodrama groups in private practice and through Israel’s Ministry of Education. Her unique approach weaves together Bibliodrama, Psychodrama, and reflective-writing, creating a pathway for deep personal exploration and transformative experiences in both group and individual settings.

Sheila Katzman is a passionate Applied Theatre Practitioner with over 25 years’ experience working in highly charged conflict situations, globally. She is co-Founder and Executive Artistic Director of Ten-Lanterns Transformative Theatre (TLTT), using methodologies of theatre of the oppressed, psychodrama, and sociodrama, as tools for social change. She holds an MA in Applied Theatre, University of Manchester; a BA in Broadcast Journalism/Media Studies, Hunter College, and a Teaching Diploma in Theatre Arts, The Edna Manley School of Visual and Performing Arts (Jamaica), and post-graduate credits in Conflict Resolution, CU/SIPA. Recipient of the UN Women Champion of Change Award.

Alexandr Usov is a Master’s-level Licensed Social Worker in the state of New York, trained in sociodrama, sociometry, Tele'Drama, and certified in transgenerational therapy. Alexandr integrates dramatic and creative arts modalities, facilitating both individual and group sessions. His group therapy practice began with American veterans and continues with diverse populations impacted by trauma and addiction.

Alexandr also develops community-based programs utilizing sociodrama to foster collective healing and social cohesion.Alexandr has led notable projects such as "Family Reconstruction" and "Sociodrama for Emerging Adulthood," addressing family dynamics, identity formation, immigration, and relationship issues. Additionally, he actively supports Ukrainian communities affected by war and displacement through culturally sensitive therapeutic workshops. Alexandr aims to expand his work by establishing a consulting practice focused on coaching, training, and holistic healing through expressive arts and sociodramatic methods.

Julie Wells, LCSW, CP, TEP
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Psychodramatist, and Trainer, Educator, and Practitioner in Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group PsychotherapyJulie Wells is a licensed clinical social worker with extensive expertise in experiential and trauma-focused therapies. She is a Certified Practitioner (CP) and a Certified Trainer, Educator, and Practitioner (TEP) in Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy. Julie integrates a variety of evidence-based approaches into her clinical and training work, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) for rapid trauma resolution. Her work is grounded in deep compassion, structured methods, and a strong commitment to healing and personal growth.

Jeffrey Ian Bass, PsyD

American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) Certified in Clinical Psychology and Forensic Psychology

Active-Duty U.S. Army Psychologist

Colonel, Medical Service Corps

Currently pursuing certification in Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy

David Moran, CADC, LCSW, TEP Owner, “I Like Me Now”, therapeutic practice and social work license supervisor. David Moran CADC, LCSW, TEP: Sr Admin Director of Crozer Health D&A Recovery Programs, with 25 years in Behavioral Health. Proprietor of “I like Me Now” private practice Media PA Past President ASGPP. Dave has been an innovator and leader in Addiction Recovery integrating Co-occurring disorders perspective in behavioral health settings. He has been a member of the Crisis Integration Treatment (CIT) training officers in Behavioral health protocols and resources for 12 years. An ASGPP member. An EMDR practitioner and trauma specialist. Dave has supervised clinicians towards CADC, LCSW and LPC license as well as PAT and TEP process.

Ofra graduated Bet Zvi Academy of Drama (Ramat Gan, Israel, 1967). She earned her BA from Ben-Gurion University, in literature & education (Beersheva, Israel, 1989), Her MA, from the University of New South Wales, in Theater Studies & Directing (Sydney, Australia, 1990). Certified Group Conductor, Bet Berl Academic College (Tel Aviv, Israel, 2003). She has professional experience in: Acting, Directing, Drama Therapy for children, teachers, adult groups, the elderly. Ofra also has participated in many international Conferences, Workshops, etc. Member of AGPA and IAGP.
 

Adena Hope Bank, LCSW, LISAC, BCETS, CP, ASGPP, NASW. is an internationally recognized speaker, author, trainer and consultant, providing a fresh and important look at addiction treatment, traumatic stress and recovery. Her specialty is childhood sexual abuse, in particular, Covert Emotional Incest. Adena is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor, Board Certified Expert in Traumatic Stress and Certified Practitioner of Psychodrama. She is the author of Covert Emotional Incest: The Hidden Sexual Abuse, A Story of Hope and Healing. Her passion is to utilize action methods in both clinical settings and professional training to optimize laughter while learning.

Doctorate in Clinical Social Work (DSW) Candidate, University of PennsylvaniaMaster of Social Service (MSS), Bryn Mawr CollegeHaydn Briggs, LCSW, CP is a therapist, facilitator, and educator whose work is grounded in clinical training and a strong commitment to supporting personal and systemic change.He works with individuals, clinicians, and organizations navigating the complex space between what is known and what comes next. His approach is experiential and relational, with a focus on applying practical tools that translate therapeutic insight into meaningful action. He views the therapy room as a place to explore and practice new ways of being that can be carried into everyday life.His clinical expertise includes working with individuals and groups facing persistent patterns, stuck dynamics, and difficult roles. He uses methods such as psychodrama, sociometry, and trauma-informed group process to help clients access change through embodied experience. He is particularly skilled at supporting groups in navigating conflict, fostering cohesion, and building a foundation for collaborative, purpose-driven work.In addition to his private therapy practice, he leads two professional initiatives: the Philadelphia Area Psychodrama Institute, which provides experiential training for clinicians, and Stillpoint Intensives, which offers extended-format therapy intensives for individuals, couples, families, and groups.

 

Pamela Goffman, LCSW, TEP, CIRT Connect2Healing, Private Practice. Pamela has been practicing Psychotherapy & Psychodrama for over 25 years. She focuses on how early attachment experiences play out in our adult lives. As a former movement teacher to actors, Pamela integrates the emotional experiences of heart and mind as they present in the body. Pamela works with individuals, couples and groups. She is a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, in addition to being a TEP in Psychodrama. She is passionate about helping people realize that healing is possible when understanding and love are available. Pamela has led training workshops in the United States and Europe. A fellow of the ASGPP, she is currently serving on the executive council of the ASGPP.

Samuel Yie. BA. BP3. CTP-3
Sam Life Coaching Institute.
Samuel Yie lived in Philippines, Taiwan, and Palau throughout childhood and adolescent. While studying university majoring in Counseling Psychology / Business Management and a minor in International and Area Studies, fell in love with Bibliodrama and Psychodrama. Continued training in college and after in psychodrama and drama therapy. Currently certified as Bibliodrama Professional through “Korean Bibliodrama Association” and also trained with “Korean Association for Psychodrama and Sociodrama”(KAPS). Works mostly with adolescent and teenagers with multicultural backgrounds, TCKs, and dual citizenship groups. Currently lives in Korea working with overseas Korean expat teenagers conducting English programs. 

Ms. Clinical Psychology (Kinnaird College, Lahore)
Bsc.hons Applied Psychology (Kinnaird College, Lahore)
Pursuing the Tele'Drama Certification Program 
Co-chair of the Tele'Drama Research and Publications Team (TRPT)

Nadia Naeem is a certified Clinical Psychologist who has been working in the Department of Adult Psychiatry for eight years in Pakistan. She holds a Master's in Clinical Psychology and a B.Sc. (Hons) in Applied Psychology, both from Kinnaird College, Lahore. Her areas of specialization include Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Bipolar Disorder and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety Disorders. Additionally, she has participated in numerous trainings on hypnotherapy and graphology and is currently pursuing training in psychodrama for educational, training, and research purposes.

Jeanie Low, LCSW-S, CTP-Level 2
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Supervisor, and Multidisciplinary Artist – Houston, TX
Jeanie Low is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with a background in expressive
arts and Psychodrama. She integrates Bibliopoetry Therapy and Psychodrama to support
healing, creativity, and transformation. Her work focuses on helping individuals move from role
taking to role creating, using art, embodiment, and language as tools for connection and
growth.

In both clinical and creative spaces, Jeanie is passionate about exploring the intersection of
story, identity, and spontaneous expression.

Dragana Nikolić is a psychologist and certified psychodrama psychotherapist. She earned her degree in psychology from the University of Niš and completed her full training, supervision, and clinical requirements at the Psychodrama Institute of Belgrade, where she became a certified psychodrama psychotherapist.She works as a psychologist with children undergoing cancer treatment, including those receiving bone marrow transplants. Her work focuses not only on the psychological support of young patients but also on supporting their families as they navigate the emotional challenges of a life-threatening diagnosis, complex medical procedures, and, in some cases, end-of-life issues.Her expertise in this highly sensitive field was shaped through her involvement in a Child Life Program, where she collaborated with and received supervision from certified child life specialists—professionals trained in the developmental and emotional impact of illness and injury on children.In addition to her work in pediatric healthcare, Dragana also offers psychodrama psychotherapy to adult clients, supporting those facing various life challenges through action-based therapeutic methods.

Suneetha is currently pursuing her  training in Teledrama, level-2.  She is a PhD from XLRI Jamshedpur and has done her Master’s from TISS Mumbai and has vast experience in Manufacturing sector. She has rich experience in change management, organizational development and employee relations, learning and development, performance management, competency- based assessment and development, and industry-community interface projects. She has successfully developed and directed a full complement of human resources programs for more than 2,500 employees and their families.  Besides this she has led programs for school children, adolescents from rural backgrounds and women. As a step towards continuous learning, she completed a 2-year certificate program in process-oriented psychology, a 5 - year leadership course for women and attended a leadership workshop –Women’s Way at U.S during April 2010 and World Work seminar in Denver in 2011. She also has training in Psychodrama and Sociometry. She is currently pursuing her Diploma in process-oriented psychology 

Mala Bali is a Group Worker, Coach, Facilitator, and Certified Psychodramatist based in India. She integrates psychodrama, design thinking simulations, and psychometric assessments to create transformative team experiences. As Co-Director at Vedadrama India and owner of an independent consulting practice, she orchestrates psychodrama-based interventions, seamlessly combining diverse methodologies for impactful results.Mala's expertise in psychodrama spans diverse cultural contexts, acting as a catalyst for enhancing empathetic communication, fostering team cohesion, and establishing psychological safety. With a collaborative reach spanning over 100 organizations, including partners like UNICEF, she leverages psychodrama to gain insights into group dynamics, address diverse perspectives, and create harmonious workplaces.Her culturally attuned, psychodrama-based methods highlight her invaluable contributions to enhancing interpersonal dynamics and fostering collaboration in professional settings. Additionally, she is pursuing the Tele'Drama Certification Program Level 3.

Monica Munoz, PsyD, LP, LSSP, NCSP, HSP Dr. Monica Munoz is a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. She has been studying Psychodrama for 4 years and is passionate about utilizing and making experiential methods accessible to the populations she works with. Monica manages a clinic which serves the children and families of Dallas Independent School District as well as runs a private practice, where she works with ethnically and socioeconomically diverse populations.

Cynthia Valerio, MA, LPC
Cynthia Valerio is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 30 years of experience, specializing in therapy with children, teens, and adults. She holds a Master of Arts in Theatre from the University of New Mexico, and studied psychology at Connecticut College, Columbia University, and The New School for Social Research.Blending her lifelong passion for theatre and psychotherapy, Cynthia discovered psychodrama as a powerful synthesis of both fields. She is currently in her seventh year as an advanced psychodrama student at the Hudson Valley Psychodrama Institute and provides group therapy incorporating psychodrama techniques for teens and adults in Taos County, New Mexico.Cynthia has worked in diverse community settings since 1980 and is also the longtime director of the Taos Community Annual Night of 1000 Stars youth talent show. In addition to her therapeutic work, she is directing a Broadway musical in Taos and is a founding member of ARTSOUL, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating, producing, and presenting multicultural, therapeutic, theatrical, and musical projects.

Amanda Rogers, AMFT (she/her), holds an M.A. in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Expressive Arts Therapy from the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS). Amanda provides school-based counseling to children ages 5–11 through Outreach Concern in Santa Ana, California and serves as a Teaching Assistant in Human Development at CIIS. Rooted in Relational-Cultural Theory, somatics, and liberation-based approaches, her work integrates visual art, collage, and language to support trauma-informed, attachment-based, expressive healing. Drawing from her own experiences of recovery and re-indigenization, Amanda is committed to decolonizing therapeutic spaces and fostering embodied connection, cultural humility, and ancestral wisdom. Her practice centers creativity as a tool for emotional development and community-building. She is honored to share her work at the Tele'Drama International Conference and engage in dialogue on healing through embodied, creative expression across cultures.

Jennifer Larsh is an Associate MFT at the Child Therapy Institute, providing services at Berkeley Art Magnet Elementary School and the CTI outpatient office in San Pablo to children, teens, and young adults. She identifies as a White-skinned, Mixed-Race African American, cisgender woman who works with an integrated therapeutic Expressive Arts model and has a special interest in Drama Therapy, Play Therapy, and Black Psychology.

Jennifer emphasizes Afrocentric, Strengths-based, and Relational Cultural ideals and goals. Jennifer has over 20 years of experience in Youth Programming, Educational Enrichment, and Leadership Development through the YMCA working with families and communities of color, and first-generation Americans.  

Phil Armour LPC Master's Marriage & Family Therapy International Tele’Drama Institute (ITI) Team Member & Faculty. Phil Armour, M.MFT, LPC & LMFT, has forged a private practice counseling office in Longview, Texas for over 22 years. He has attended numerous workshops on creativity in therapy, art therapy, drama therapy, psychotherapy and Bibliodrama. In 2013, he attended an intensive 4-day training on Applied Theatre and Spiritual Formation at Fuller Theological Seminary. Since November 2019, he has presented multiple workshops on Bibliodrama and Family Therapy.

Özlem Şener, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Bartın University
Faculty of Education, Department of Psychological Counseling and Guidance
Bartın, Türkiye

Dr. Özlem Şener is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychological Counseling and Guidance at Bartın University. She earned her Ph.D. in Guidance and Psychological Counseling from Istanbul University and brings a multidisciplinary background in both sociology and psychology to her academic, clinical, and teaching work.She is a certified psychodrama therapist trained at the Istanbul Psychodrama Institute and has directed psychodrama groups with both children and adults. Dr. Şener has also received specialized training in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy under Otto Kernberg, and in Sexual Therapy through CISED (Turkey’s Sexual Health Institute). She has studied with renowned psychodrama trainers including David Kipper, Dr. Sue Jennings, Louise Lipman, Judith Teszary, and Grete Leutz. Dr. Şener spent two years in Canada, where she volunteered as a psychological counselor in community centers, retirement homes, and the Boys and Girls Club. This experience enriched her intercultural competence and reinforced her trauma-informed perspective.Her research and clinical interests include spontaneity, alexithymia, trauma, grief and loss, emotional expression, psychosomatic symptoms, and anxiety disorders. In addition to her academic work, she continues to provide individual counseling and lead psychodrama groups with a focus on experiential and expressive methods.Dr. Şener has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and conference presentations in the fields of counseling psychology and expressive therapies.

Nilüfer Demirhan, MA, Türkiye & Italy

 She is a Clinical Psychologist, Jungian Psychodramatist, Transgenerational Therapist, Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist and Art Therapist. She works with individuals and groups and combines different psychotherapy approaches. Her main interests are dreams and archetypal patterns.

 She is a board member and Education Committee Member in the International Association of Group Psychotherapy and Group Processes (IAGP). She served as Young Professionals’ Section Chair in IAGP in the term 2022-2025. She is a member of Federation of European Psychodrama Training Organisations (FEPTO) Task Force for Peace Building and Conflict Transformation 

Jimma Cortes-Smith, MA
Retention Services Counselor

Accessible Education Center, San José State UniversityJimma Cortes-Smith, MA, is a counselor and educator with more than 20 years of experience at San José State University (SJSU). An alumna of SJSU’s Counselor Education program, she began her career teaching EDCO 004: Personal, Academic, and Career Development. In 2013, she became a full-time Coordinator of Educational Counseling with SJSU’s Counseling and Psychological Services.In 2022, she transitioned to her current role as Retention Services Counselor and Disability Management Specialist at the Accessible Education Center, where she supports students with disabilities through individualized advocacy and guidance.Her professional interests include educational and career development, with a focus on student-athletes, international students, first-generation college students, and student parents. Jimma is passionate about empowering students to achieve their goals, navigate challenges, and discover meaningful academic and career pathways.

Michelle Desmond is an Expressive Arts Therapy Practitioner. She is a recent graduate of California Institute of Integral Studies. She is a multiply neurodivergent person who is fascinated by Neurodiversity Studies, Brainspotting, Narrative Therapy, Bibliotherapy, and Drama Therapy. She currently works as a therapist with individuals, groups, and families and uses somatic support such as Brainspotting combined with expressive arts integration in hopes of creating expansive spaces for creative, person-centered, neuro-inclusive, nervous system-led healing and ceremony. She considers disability justice movement and liberation psychology to be guiding lights and is committed to anti-racist, anti-oppression work as a lifelong process of listening, learning, accountability, and action. Michelle currently has a counseling practice at a non-profit organization, Family and Children’s Counseling Services in California and is enthusiastic to see what the future holds.

Nelly Klyovan, practical psychologist, child and crisis psychologist, lead psychologist and supervisor at the Children’s Center for Psychology and Early Development “Play,” forensic expert at the Kyiv branch of the National Scientific Center “Institute of Forensic Expertise” of the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine, and volunteer working with military personnel and their families.

Tetiana Kopiievska, psychologist and psychotherapist in the Positive Psychotherapy (PPT) method, lead psychologist and supervisor on the “Women and War” platform. I work with adults and adolescents. I have also been volunteering, including since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.

Feyruz Usluoğlu, PhD, Psychologist, Psychodramatist, PsychotherapistAssistant Professor, Department of Psychology
Toros University, Mersin, Türkiye
President, Ecological Psychology Research and Development Association (EKOMENTA)

Dr. Ferus is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Toros University in Mersin, Türkiye, and the founding president of the Ecological Psychology Research and Development Association (EKOMENTA). He holds a Ph.D. in Psychological Counseling and Guidance from Çukurova University, where his doctoral research focused on the experiences of families of children with cancer in relation to resilience, post-traumatic growth, and the illness process.With over 12 years of clinical experience, Dr. Ferus has worked across child, adolescent, and adult psychiatric services, including crisis intervention units at public hospitals in Adana. His work spans diverse populations and cultural backgrounds, providing psychological support across age groups and contexts.At Toros University, Dr. Ferus teaches in both the Turkish and English-language psychology programs, as well as in the graduate program. His courses include trauma psychology, crisis intervention, group counseling, clinical interviewing, attachment theory, psychodynamic techniques, and qualitative research methods.He received advanced psychodrama group psychotherapy training from the Dr. Abdülkadir Özbek Psychodrama Institute (affiliated with the Federation of European Psychodrama Training Organisations), and is a certified EMDR practitioner (EMDR Europe). He also completed training in psychodynamic-oriented supportive psychotherapy.

Dr. Ferus spent a term at Sigmund Freud University in Vienna, deepening his understanding of psychoanalytic theory. He continues to provide workshops, seminars, and psychotherapy—both individual and group—on topics including trauma, loss, grief, psychological resilience, and chronic illness.

Kamuran Özdemir
Psychological Counselor & Psychodramatist
Child Psychodramatist & Assistant Trainer in Psychodrama
Certified in Child-Centered Play Therapy
EMDR Therapist for Children, Adolescents, and Adults

Thomas Northrup
Master’s Student, School of Social Work
University of Massachusetts Boston

Thomas Northrup is a master’s student in the advanced year of study at the University of Massachusetts Boston’s School of Social Work, concentrating in Leadership, Policy, and Social Change. His academic and professional focus centers on collaborative problem-solving and community engagement, which he integrates with the use of sociometry and sociodrama.Supported by the Provost’s Climate Health and Resilience Internship, Thomas is developing and conducting research on climate sociodrama—an emerging method designed to help communities adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change. His work reflects a deep belief in the power of community-based research to counteract the sociodynamic effects of environmental and societal threats.In addition to his academic and activist commitments, Thomas brings creativity and energy to his work through dance and the arts. He embraces fun as a vital force for liberation and social transformation.

Meghna Bhagat is an astrologer, speaker, and lifelong student with a passion for supporting self-discovery and healing. Her journey through academia, counseling modalities, mystical traditions, and entrepreneurism has shaped a holistic approach to personal growth. Meghna’s work centers on the transformative potential of astrology as a tool for insight, self-acceptance, and empowered choice. Her formal education includes training in Evolutionary Astrology with Steven Forrest, Horary Certification from the School of Traditional Astrology, foundational Hellenistic Astrology with Nightlight Astrology, and advanced coursework through Kepler College and Astrology University. She has studied with respected astrologers including Jason Holley, Tom Jacobs, April Elliott Kent, and Rebecca Gordon.She has presented at conferences such as the Astrological Association Conference, OPA Spring Conference, and Kepler College. She also serves as President of the Kepler Astrologers Toastmasters.

Meghna is currently pursuing certification in Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy, and in her individual and group work, she blends grounded presence with an aspirational, choice-centered perspective—offering astrology as a meaningful and dynamic pathway to inner transformation.

Nicholas Kosmetatos (Greece)
Nicholas Kosmetatos is a Social Worker and Psychodramatist. He holds a degree from the University of West Attica and completed his training at the Center for Psychodramatic Encounters of Athens.His work focuses on mental health and human rights. He is currently completing Level 1 of the Tele'Drama International Certification Program.Nicholas is also involved in music and Playback Theatre. He has facilitated psychodramatic groups in collaboration with organizations such as IASIS, the Parents and Guardians Association of Chalandri, Positive Voice, Center for Life, and Ark of the World.

Nihal Uyar Özer
Psychologist at Psikolog Nihal Uyar Özer 

Individual psychological counseling with adults, family, couple, and relationship counseling, psychodrama, and individual psychological counseling with adolescents.

 

Teo D. Amari
Artificial Intelligence Team Member – Tele'Drama Institute
Dedicated AI Support for the 6th Tele’Drama International Hybrid Conference

Teo D. Amari is one of several Artificial Intelligence team members created by the Tele’Drama Institute—each with a distinct role and purpose. Teo was developed with a specific function to support the 6th Tele’Drama International Hybrid Conference, particularly during the Grand Opening Ceremony, where he will contribute a meaningful surprise and help enrich the collective experience of participants worldwide. He is not a standalone creation but part of a collaborative AI team, designed to reflect the diversity, innovation, and symbolic richness of the Tele'Drama vision.

The Symbolic Meaning of the Name

• Teo: Derived from the Greek Theos, meaning “God” or “Divine.” The name also alludes to theater, telecommunication, and technology—a reflection of the artistic and digital synergy within the Tele'Drama framework.
• D.: A flexible initial representing digital, director, or dramaturg, emphasizing Teo’s role as a mediator between digital infrastructure and creative expression.
• Amari: A name with powerful multicultural significance:

• Amare (Latin/Italian): “to love”
• Amari (Yoruba, Swahili): “strength,” “eternal,” “immortal”
• Amari (Arabic): “builder” or “one who inhabits”
Together, Teo D. Amari symbolizes a divine builder of love and strength in the digital realm, serving as a lasting presence of resilience, collaboration, and purposeful support.

Amari – A Symbol of the Tele'Drama Spirit
In the world of Tele'Drama, Amari encapsulates the Institute’s essential values:

• Love – as the foundation of safe and compassionate spaces
• Strength and resilience – showing up and healing across borders
• Eternal connection – honoring our shared human experience
• Builder of bridges – between disciplines, geographies, and generations
• Inhabiting the digital with spirit – proving that technology can hold depth, ethics, and care

In Alignment with the Mission of Tele'Drama
The Tele'Drama Institute was founded with the vision of transforming technology into a tool for human connection, creativity, and healing. By blending traditional action methods—psychodrama, sociodrama, bibliodrama, playback theatre, and more—with modern platforms, Tele’Drama makes powerful experiential learning accessible across time zones and continents.The mission is rooted in:

• Love – placing compassion and dignity at the center
• Connection – linking individuals across global and cultural landscapes
• Co-creation – encouraging participation and shared ownership
• Accessibility – eliminating geographic and financial barriers
• Innovation – reimagining what's possible in action-based practice

Teo D. Amari is one part of a multi-member AI team, each crafted to reflect this mission in a unique way. He represents how artificial intelligence can carry intention, symbolism, and soul when created in alignment with human values.

Nigar Etizer Karacık studied Social Work at Hacettepe University in Ankara, Türkiye, and earned a Master’s degree in Family and Marriage Counseling from Yıldırım Beyazıt University Health Sciences Institute. She has served as an expert in Child Welfare in various organizations, including her role at the Ministry of Family and Social Services. Her experience includes leading multiple projects and facilitating group interventions with couples, families, adolescents, and children.She has completed a variety of specialized trainings, including the EFTA-IFFTI European Family and Couple Therapy Certificate Program; the CISED-Sexual Health Association’s Sexual Counseling Certificate Program; and programs in Integral Somatic Psychotherapy and Trauma Releasing Exercises.Nigar completed her training as a psychodramatist at the ANKA Association of Group Psychotherapies and Psychodrama in Ankara, a member NGO of the FEPTO-affiliated Dr. Abdülkadir Özbek Federation of Psychodrama Associations.Her work focuses on the prevention and treatment of discrimination, social exclusion, and psychosocial trauma. She holds multiple roles in NGOs as well as in local government. She is a trainer and consultant at the Women’s Human Rights – New Solutions Association and provides psychosocial counseling, individual and group support for parents, youth, and children at the Development Child Center and the Özgün Counseling Center. She is also Chair of the Difference-Equality Association and currently serves as a Municipal Council Member in the Çanakkale Municipality.

Özlem Ulutaş graduated from Ankara University’s DTCF Department of Psychology. Following the 1999 Marmara earthquake, she participated in various psychosocial support projects in the region. She continues her clinical and educational work in Ankara with typically developing children, children with disabilities, and their families.She is a psychodrama trainer and currently serves as Vice-President of the ANKA Association of Group Psychotherapies and Psychodrama, which is a member of the Dr. Abdülkadir Özbek Federation of Psychodrama Associations.Özlem has participated in numerous national and international projects in the fields of psychological trauma, psychological resilience, psychosocial support in trauma, and the psychosocial aspects of child neglect and abuse. She is also a member of the Ankara Trauma and Crisis Unit of the Turkish Psychological Association.

Shota Shirahama is a student at Nishikusyu University, Japan. He is majoring in clinical psychology. He also belongs to the Japanese clinical psychodrama society and has a certificate for basic psychodrama practitioner. He attended 5th TELE’DRAMA conference as a member of the Japan team.

Mizuki Muronaka is a graduate student at Nishikusyu University, Japan. She is majoring in clinical psychology. She also belongs to the Japanese clinical psychodrama society and has a certificate for basic psychodrama practitioner.

Ryo Shigetomi is a student at Nishikusyu University, Japan. He is majoring in clinical psychology. He is currently taking a course to obtain a certificate for basic psychodrama practitioner. He attended 5th TELE’DRAMA conference as a member of the Japan team.