Mara Giovanni, MSW

Mara specializes in neuroscience-based, experiential work for trauma, anxiety, and nervous system dysregulation. Her approach can be especially helpful for people who understand intellectually that they are safe, but whose bodies have not quite gotten the message yet. She helps clients build practical somatic tools and personalized practices that support greater regulation, connection, confidence, and a more embodied sense of safety.

Mara earned her Master of Social Work from Columbia University and is the creator of Kali Connection Therapy® (KCT), a somatic modality now being used by clinicians and helping professionals across the country. KCT has been offered at Onsite Workshops, Integrative Life Center, and Cumberland Heights, with additional programming in treatment and healing settings including Alive Hospice and APEX Recovery. Mara also teaches and presents her work through professional trainings, universities, and conferences.

With more than 45 years of martial arts experience, Mara brings a unique understanding of the relationship between the brain, body, safety, and capability. That background also informs Peaceful Warrior, her mindful self-defense program for women.

Mara’s style is warm, playful, curious, and highly experiential. She loves making complex neuroscience feel understandable, human, and surprisingly fun, and helping people discover practical ways to feel more connected to themselves, more capable in their bodies, and more empowered in their lives.