Certifying Coordinator

Melinda Darer, a Certifying Coordinator, strongly values equality and diversity in team settings.  One of her most satisfying and productive activities is collaborating with international organizations and individuals. Her areas of interest include communication styles, conflict resolution, mindfulness, and pausing.

She has more than 30 years of non-profit management.  Since co-creating Focusing Initiatives International in 2014, Melinda has served as co-director and chief operating officer, responsible for developing the organization’s strategy and vision, creating new initiatives and programs, and managing the finances.  Melinda spent 17 years at the Focusing Institute where she worked  closely with the founders – Drs. Eugene Gendlin and Mary Hendricks.

Melinda has organized more than 500 webinars. She supports the Indigenous Focusing-Oriented Therapy trauma program in New York City. She established an online monthly Wholebody Focusing Gathering, with guest facilitators and attunements, which has been meeting for more than five years. In collaboration with the University of Massachusetts  and Catholic Charities, she was instrumental in developing the Refugee Resettlement Wellness Initiative that brought Afghan refugee women together for psychosocial support.