Dr. Ivy Alvarez is a multifaceted individual with a profound commitment to integrating Western psychology and Indigenous healing practices. Having earned her Psy.D from the California School of Professional Psychology, her academic journey was marked by a deep immersion in both traditional and contemporary approaches to therapy.

Throughout her doctoral research, Ivy embarked on a transformative journey across Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, and the Sierra Mountains in Oaxaca, Mexico. Here, she engaged in profound dialogues and experiences with Indigenous healers, delving into their perspectives on plant medicine. This immersive exploration not only enriched her dissertation but also profoundly shaped her understanding of healing practices.

With a dedication to addressing substance abuse issues, Ivy serves as an alcohol and drug counselor, extending her expertise to a ketamine treatment facility. Her work goes beyond conventional therapies as she integrates insights from her Indigenous training, recognizing the holistic nature of healing.

For the past four years, Ivy has been under the tutelage of a master teacher of Zapotec lineage, delving into the profound wisdom of Niños Santos (psilocybin) from an Indigenous perspective. This apprenticeship reflects her commitment to honoring and preserving Indigenous traditions while fostering their integration into contemporary therapeutic settings.

In her dissertation, Ivy focused on amplifying the voices of psychedelic-assisted therapists, particularly highlighting the perspectives and cultures surrounding their practices. She provided a platform for practitioners to share their wisdom lineage and advocated for inclusive approaches that center on the needs of BIPOC/Indigenous populations. Through her work, Ivy seeks to bridge cultural divides and promote healing practices that are both inclusive and culturally sensitive.

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