FAQs

The Wisdom Institute operates on a sustainable business model that combines insurance-based services, cash-based services, and earned income strategies. We offer a range of mental health services, including evidence-based PTSD treatments such as Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) and integrative-EMDR, which are reimbursable by insurance or available for direct payment. Additionally, we generate income through educational programs, workshops, and wellness retreats, which cater to both individual clients and professional training needs. These diverse revenue streams ensure that the Wisdom Institute can maintain financial stability even without external funding from donations or grants.

There are currently no local nonprofits offering intensive wellness retreats that are accessible to individuals across all socioeconomic levels. Typically, these services are reserved for wealthy individuals, leaving many without access to crucial healing opportunities. Additionally, many of the innovative, evidence-based PTSD treatments we provide, such as Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and integrative-EMDR, are not widely available to the general public as these treatments are only partially covered by many insurance plans at this time. Wisdom Institute is unique in that we offer these treatments while also conducting research to improve their effectiveness and developing educational programs to train the next generation of mental health professionals. Our research focuses on measuring treatment outcomes and refining best practices, while our educational programs are designed to make these advanced therapies more widely available in the mental health field.

Yes, Wisdom Institute is meeting a critical need in the community, as supported by valid research. PTSD and other trauma-related disorders are prevalent, yet many individuals lack access to the necessary treatments due to financial barriers or limited availability of specialized services. Our offerings, such as wellness retreats and advanced PTSD treatments, are rooted in evidence-based practices and are designed to fill these gaps. Research has shown that intensive, holistic approaches to mental health care can lead to significant improvements in symptoms and overall well-being, particularly for individuals with complex trauma. By providing these services to underserved populations, the Wisdom Institute is addressing a pressing community need.

Our research department will collect baseline data on PTSD symptoms at the start of treatment and follow-up data to measure treatment outcomes. This approach allows us to track the effectiveness of our therapies and make data-driven improvements to our programs. Additionally, our educational programs will track the progress of participants, collecting data with a 5-year follow-up to assess how our training is helping new and established mental health providers become proficient in treating PTSD. The broader impact of our work will be a more skilled workforce of mental health professionals, better access to effective treatments for trauma survivors, and ultimately, a community where mental wellness is within reach for everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

I am Dr. Leona Kashersky, a licensed psychologist with extensive experience in trauma-informed care, advanced therapeutic techniques, and mental health program development. My journey began with a passion for helping individuals overcome the effects of complex trauma and PTSD, leading me to specialize in innovative treatments like art, play, somatic, EMDR and KAP modalities. Over the years, I have worked with diverse populations, developed educational programs, and conducted research that has deepened my understanding of what it takes to tap into our human resilience after trauma. These experiences have equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and leadership qualities necessary to guide Wisdom Institute in making a meaningful impact on the mental health landscape.

Wisdom Institute is founded on values of compassion, inclusivity, innovation, and empowerment. We believe in providing accessible mental health care to all individuals, regardless of their background or financial situation. Our commitment to evidence-based practices ensures that our services are not only effective but also continually evolving to meet the needs of our community. As the founder, I hold these values close, with a deep belief in the power of healing and the importance of supporting others on their journey to wellness. Integrity, respect, and a dedication to lifelong learning are core to both my personal and professional ethos.

Wisdom Institute is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards, with policies in place to ensure accountability and transparency. Our non-discrimination policy guarantees that all individuals, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status, have access to our services. We also have a whistleblower policy that empowers staff and community members to report any unethical behavior without fear of retaliation. These policies, along with our commitment to transparency in our operations, ensure that we remain accountable to the community we serve.

There are many organizations in our community focused on mental health, education, and social services. We plan to collaborate with these groups to complement our work and strengthen our ties to the community. For example, local high school students needing community service credits can support our Building Connections group for youth on the autism spectrum who have experienced social traumas. These volunteers will learn to be excellent allies to their neurodivergent peers, support them in their social skills treatment plans, and gain valuable mentoring from mental health professionals. By engaging with existing community resources and fostering new partnerships, we can create a more integrated support system for those we serve.

Wisdom Institute utilizes QuickBooks for accounting, ensuring that all financial transactions are accurately recorded and reported. We have designated accounts for specific funds, such as donations and grants for specific programs and earned income, to ensure that all money is used in accordance with donor intentions and organizational goals. Our financial practices are guided by generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and we conduct regular audits to maintain transparency and accountability. Additionally, we provide clear and detailed financial reports to our board of directors and funders to demonstrate responsible stewardship of our resources.