Sima Basel
-Clinical Psychology, MSc., University of London
-Board Director at Arab Psychedelic Society
-Researcher at New York University
-Community weaver at Grassroots Village
I grew up in Palestine, with maternal roots in Ukraine, which gave me a unique perspective on the diversity of the human experience from an early age. My life was shaped by the realities of war and the deep impacts of violence. These experiences fueled my commitment to helping those who suffer and led me to a profound realization: the root cause of much of our pain lies in disconnection—disconnection from our inner essence, from each other, and from the ecosystem that nourishes us.
I believe that fostering (re)connection is a path to liberation, and that liberation brings forth compassion—for ourselves, for others, and for all living beings. It allows us to see the interconnectedness of life and to align with the truth of our being.
Driven by these insights, I embarked on a journey to deepen my understanding of the world and the people within it. I pursued my undergraduate degree in Psychology in the United States, but soon grew frustrated with the Western, often colonial lens through which it was taught. To balance this perspective, I earned a second degree in Anthropology, allowing me to contextualize the human experience more holistically.
After completing my undergraduate studies, I joined New York University, where I spent a decade developing intervention programs for refugee children in various parts of the world. My research focused on how Social Emotional Learning can extend beyond academics to nurture a child’s emotional and social development.
I later pursued a postgraduate degree in Clinical Psychology and worked in clinics in London, where I gained a deeper understanding of trauma—whether from violence and war, colonialism, capitalism, consumerism, or the relational traumas rooted in early childhood. I also explored the trauma of ecocide, recognizing the profound impact of our disconnection from the Earth.
Throughout my studies and career, I have been fortunate to learn from wise teachers, including Gabor Maté, whose Compassionate Inquiry method has deeply influenced my approach. This method, along with The Presence Process, Internal Family Systems, and other teachings, forms the foundation of the integration therapy I offer, which focuses on uncovering the root causes of imbalance in our lives.
In addition to my work in psychology, I am passionate about Permaculture and regenerative living. Currently, I am channeling my energy into building an eco-village in the mountains, with the aim of living in greater alignment with our inner landscapes, restoring our social fabric through intentional co-living, and harmonizing with the rhythms of nature.
This way of life is an extension of the therapy I offer. I aim to create a space where healing is facilitated not only in individual sessions but also through our interactions with others, through self-expression, and through our connection with the Earth.