About me
I'm Arika Rapson, MA.
I am a cognitive coach and herbal educator focusing on holistic strategies for neurological, emotional and physical health. I hold a MA from Stony Brook University, am certified as a Cognitive Coach through IBCCES, and have completed training as a Family Herbalist through CommonWealth Holistic Herbalism.
Cognitive coaches are trained in cognitive strategies that specifically support neurodivergent individuals, with emphasis on areas like nervous system regulation and executive functioning skills.
As an autistic woman, I also have lived experience with the impacts neurodivergence can have on all aspects of health. So many of us are living with chronic health issues and/or struggle with emotional health, and it is important to me to be able to address and support those challenges with my clients. This is what first led me to integrating holistic herbalism into my practice.
That being said, a holistic approach is not just about herbs! Addressing foundational issues like stress management, quality sleep, eating the right food for your body and getting plenty of movement can be so impactful, and are areas I have extensive experience in.
When I am not working with clients, I also enjoy writing about neurodivergent topics of interest and herbal supports. You can find my articles regularly on substack and other online publications.
I work remotely from my home at the edge of the woods on Lopez Island, Washington, and offer sessions via Zoom or phone.
ADDITIONAL EDUCATION & TRAINING
PESI - Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist Intensive Training
NICABM - Coursework in nervous system states, trauma, getting stuck and distress tolerance
Holbeck College - (IAOTH Accredited) - Diploma in CBT (mindfulness emphasis)
CommonWealth Holistic Herbalism - Neurological & Emotional Health (108 credit hours)
Community Herbalist Program (895 credit hours) - in progress 2024
Herb-Drug Interactions & Herb Safety (77 credit hours)
School of Forest Medicine - Botanical Allies for Becoming Better Humans
Member of the AHG (American Herbalists Guild)
