Mari's experience with complimentary health arts began in her early adulthood, with her exposure to herbal medicine. Due to childhood illnesses, Mari searched beyond conventional medicine for a method that would lead to the deepest, most fulfilling healing possible. After years of study, she adapted methods from eastern and western traditions that have become central to her teachings and sessions. Believing that these concepts of health can benefit all people, she has dedicated her life to the practices of these philosophies. She is also committed to promoting individual wellness, educating, and expanding the learning process out into the community.

Mari Schnitzius-Richko is nationally certified Shiatsu practitioner, graduate of the International Ohashi Institute, touch for peace and a naturopathic doctor. She holds a Master's Degree in Community Counseling, a Bachelor's Degree in psychology from Loyola University in Chicago and a naturopathic degree from Clayton School of Natural Healing. Currently, Mari applies her training from Body Centered Psychotherapy, IFS (Internal Family System) which offers a systems approach to psychodynamic work), Zen Shiatsu,

Acupressure, and traditional counseling. Combining these modalities and enhancing them with her interdisciplinary approach, Mari guides each individual to a deeper sense of themselves.

Mari's professional engagements include: Lecturer for IFS Conferences (Internal Family Systems), Richard Schwartz,Ph.D on combining psychotherapy and Chinese Medicine, public speaking on alternative approaches to wellness, educator on women's issues, educator for bodyworkers on chronic illness and cancer, speaker on radio talk shows on home birthing with Mayer Eisenstein, M.D., assisting pregnancies and birthing using acupressure, volunteer for youth projects and domestic violence issues.

• AOBTA ( American Oreintal Bodyworkers Association)
• IMA (International Massage Association)
• NBCC (National Board of Clinical Counselors)
• ICA ( Illinois Counseling Association)