EP 8: Compassionate and Radical Care & Communication (Guest Jennifer Nicolaisen)

In this episode we discuss the ways that society can attempt to place us in boxes and isolate us and how to move through and out in a time of mandated isolation. We also share ways in which we can have compassionate and non-violent communication which is so desperately needed RIGHT NOW! I am so excited that we drop and possibly introduce the importance of  social health in the world of mental health! As you know there are many additional gems in this episode for your enjoyment! Please share it with family and friends as we need more compassionate and radical care and communication now! 

About Jennifer

Jennifer Nicolaisen is the executive director and co-founder of SeekHealing, an Asheville-based organization using a novel “social health” protocol for treating addiction and fighting the opioid overdose crisis. SeekHealing offers a program based on the importance of communication and human social connection in addiction recovery. The program provides non-abstinence based support meetings, events for experiencing real human connection, Listening Training classes, and free access to holistic services.  A 501(c) 3 nonprofit, Nicolaisen says SeekHealing is the first program to attempt treating addiction at the community level. 



A graduate of UNC Chapel Hill, she studied linguistics and Chinese and also speaks French and Spanish. While many of her classmates stayed in academia, after graduation, Nicolaisen accepted a position as a statistician with a consulting firm in Washington, D.C., working in the energy and mining industries. She was living a very comfortable lifestyle when her life took a dramatic turn. At 28 years old, a former school friend overdosed on heroin. When the friend was strong enough to communicate, Nicolaisen was the first person she called. “I stayed on the phone all day with her, knowing if nothing changed, she would die.” Nicolaisen said treatment is just the start of the recovery process. After treatment, people who struggle with addiction need a safe place to build new habits and experience a sense of belonging in community. Nicolaisen left her consulting job, and along with 3 others, launched a pilot program in March, 2018. The demand for its services was immediate, and Nicolaisen says SeekHealing is working toward a sustainable budget to continue its work. Nicolaisen is also a ceremony guide, minister, and relationship coach. She spends her free time connecting with her partners and friends, practicing yoga, and exploring the trails in Pisgah national forest.