• DIRECTOR:
Dana Levy // Executive Director
Dana Levy (she/her) joined Survivor Wellness as Program Director in 2022 and has served as Executive Director since 2023, while still maintaining her role a programming director, development director, and all-around house manager.
Dana is deeply grateful to the volunteers - staff, board, and general volunteers - who help her serve the organization and its members. She is honored to lead this wonderful, community-based nonprofit organization, with its rich history of supporting cancer survivors throughout the Salt Lake Valley and beyond.
Dana is a certified yoga therapist (C-IAYT), a certified Laban Bartenieff Movement Analyst (CLMA), has a master's degree in modern dance, and a nidan (2nd degree black belt) in the Japanese martial art of aikido. She has 30+ years in the fields of choreography, performance, martial arts, and movement education, both in the U.S. and Japan.
During her time in Japan, Dana founded, directed and taught at FURLA yoga, a boutique yoga studio in Tokyo from 2005-2017. After arriving in Salt Lake City in 2013, she taught Iyengar-based yoga at local studios (Avenues Yoga, Mindful Yoga Collective) and trained yoga teachers and yoga therapists in programs at local studios, Salt Lake Community College, the University of Utah and elsewhere. During COVID, Zoom provided a virtual studio and sanctuary where Dana and students throughout the valley practiced yoga together. She initially walked into Survivor Wellness to offer yoga and movement classes in October, 2021.
Dana has worked with Huntsman Cancer Institute since 2019 as an adjunct yoga instructor in the Wellness and Integrative Health Center. She is also the co-chair of the Yoga Therapy Special Interest Group for the Academic Consortium for Medicine and Health, and a member of the Society of Integrative Oncology.
Dana is humbled to work with the members of Survivor Wellness. Since her first days in the houses, Dana first attended, then facilitated, and now co-facilitates the Wednesday Night Support Group, the "heartbeat of the organization." This close relationship with the community members forms the foundation for every aspect of the programming at Survivor Wellness. By serving the cancer survivor community at Survivor Wellness, Dana hopes that each action she takes creates a ripple effect beyond the houses themselves.
A NOTE OF GRATITUDE TO OUR STAFF:
Survivor Wellness is forever grateful for the generous volunteer staff members whose offerings have sustained the cancer survivor community at Cancer Wellness House / Survivor Wellness throughout its existence.
Thank you all for sharing your gifts and for taking such deep care of each person who walks through the doors of the houses.
• INDIVIDUAL COUNSELING & GROUP SUPPORT:
Alexandra Moran // Health Counselor
Alexandra (she/her) is a social worker, and clinical intern at Survivor Wellness from August, 2024-April, 2025.
An MSW student at the University Of Utah, she is interested in local policy, as well as utilizing innovative approaches to therapy. Alexandra has been a licensed massage therapist for 11 years. Her interest in holistic healing started when she was a 15-year-old helping provide support for her father, who had been diagnosed with cancer. To alleviate side effects of his cancer treatments, she began researching complementary and integrative health care, which helped with his symptoms.
Alexandra has been a volunteer for several impactful local programs, including the wonderful garden program at the VOA women’s shelter and SLC Rock Camp for Kids. Rock Camp teaches young women and queer youth how to form rock bands, support one another, and play instruments together while fostering community. Alex trusts the power of music to heal.
In her free, Alexandra loves to play music and explore the natural world. Alexandra hopes to one day unite her love of music and gardening into her therapy practices. She looks forward to working at Survivor Wellness and getting to know the members of the community!
Brenda Butcher // Health Counselor
Brenda (she/her) is an MSW candidate at Boise State University, and she provides individual counseling and leads the Peer Support Program at Survivor Wellness from August, 2024-April, 2025.
Her journey to this role began with a BFA in Modern Dance and an MFA in Ballet at the University of Utah. Her MFA research focused on dancer wellness topics and movement therapy as a treatment modality for psychological trauma. She also designed and conducted an IRB study to measure the impact of Mindfulness-Based Meditation on cortisol (stress hormone) levels. Brenda presented this research at the IADMS (International Association for Dance Medicine and Science) 2019 conference and at ACDA (American College Dance Association) conferences. She is certified in Pilates, GYROTONIC®, and Yoga and is actively pursuing a certification in Somatic Experiencing®, which explores the relationship between somatic movement and mental health.
Brenda integrates her knowledge of the body and the nervous system into her individual and group sessions, where she also explores concepts within Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) frameworks.
Brenda is honored to work with and learn from the cancer survivors and caregivers who form the members of Survivor Wellness.
Jordan Little // Health Counselor
Jordan (she/her) is an MSW student at Weber State and joins Survivor Wellness to offer individual counseling and facilitate groups from August, 2024-April, 2025.
Jordan’s journey to Survivor Wellness began before college, when her younger sister fell ill with an unknown disease, and Jordan became a caregiver herself. She began learning healing/coping strategies through therapy and independent study. Jordan has a Bachelor's degree integrating health sciences, child and family studies and communications. She worked in a hospital setting for over 5 years, training in Crucial Conversations and child life specialist work.
While researching the connections between social, mental and physical effects on overall health, she became certified in guiding meditation, breathwork and other techniques aimed at improving peace and coping skills and overall mood. She believes that little things can, and do, make a big difference and loves helping people find more happiness, connection and understanding while feeling less stress.
“I believe the mind and the body are intimately intertwined. Since no one knows your story better than you, I put great emphasis on listening to your experiences and perspectives. We can work together to explore a path to healing, understanding that your journey is unique, shaped by every aspect of your life and identity.”
Jordan is honored to work with and learn from the cancer survivors and caregivers who form the members of Survivor Wellness. She also loves chatting, if you see her around the houses!
Liz Spencer // Health Counselor
Liz (she/they) is an MSW intern at Survivor Wellness where she provides individual counseling and co-facilitates Wednesday Night Main Support Group and Thursday's Grief and Healing group from August, 2024-April, 2025.
Liz is in their second year of three at the University of Utah's master of social work program, and found their way to the social work field through global learning. They hold a bachelor of arts in Arabic Studies from DePaul University in Chicago and have always found purpose and joy in life through connecting with those in her community and beyond.
She is passionate about approaching her work with others by using a strength-based lens, active and empathetic listening, and ensuring that clients receive support tailored to their unique needs and goals. Her practice is client-driven, incorporating harm reduction perspective and fostering a mutual learning experience. Liz is committed to empowering individuals by connecting them with the right resources and creating a space where they can thrive.
Outside of her professional work, Liz enjoys spending time in the desert, hiking, climbing, and taking in local art and performances.
Elise Scribner, LCSW // Group Facilitator
Elise facilitates the Courageous Conversations Group and runs her private counseling practice at Survivor Wellness as a Wellness Partner.
Elise Scribner (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for building community and exploring an array of modalities around healing cancer. As a brain cancer survivor and thriver, Elise loves to discuss concepts such as radical acceptance, self-empowerment and self-advocating, helpful humor, and the importance of connectedness. Elise had a background in wilderness therapy and through this role she discovered the profound positive impact that arises from combining adventure, time in nature, positive peer group culture, mentoring, and therapeutic support on patient’s mental health and overall wellbeing. Elise also has an academic background in social justice and has taught Anti-Oppression workshops at a variety of different programs. She loves to lead and is excited to be involved at Survivor Wellness.
• Elise also offers individual therapy on a sliding scale for Survivor Wellness patients via her private practice, ThriveOn. Learn more on the Wellness Partner page.
• GROUP WELLNESS CLASSES:
Carlos Justiniano // Qigong Instructor
Practice with Carlos here in videos from his home studio - created for Survivor Wellness in 2022!
Shanti Kieffer // Sound Bath Provider
Shanti offers Healing Sound Baths for Survivor Wellness members.
Shanti is an accomplished percussionist and sound healer. She has offered sound baths since 2021 using percussion and sound to promote healing and relaxation.
A certified 200-hour yoga teacher, Shanti seeks to bring balance and harmony to those with whom she works. She is also a holistic pet care practitioner who is deeply passionate about elevating the bond between companion animals and humans. Shanti is committed to serving the community through her sound bath offerings. A cancer survivor herself since 2004, Shanti is happy to serve the community at Survivor Wellness and beyond.
Diane Donahue, RYT // Yoga/Meditation Instructor
Diane leads Deep Relax Class, a yoga-based restorative and mindfulness class, for enrolled members of Survivor Wellness.
Diane (she/her) has been leading mindfulness and yoga practices for 20+ years, and has studied with luminaries of the yoga and mindfulness world, including her teacher, Swami Nirmalanda (formerly Rama Berch), Deepak Chopra (Sound Meditation), Nischala Joy Devi (Yoga of the Heart), Elena Brower, and more.
As a student and a teacher, Diane invites students to dive deep into themselves and discover effortlessness from within, and to find the stillness and sweetness within each practice. Sthira sukham asanam literally translates into “resolutely abide in good space.”
Diane invites, creates and offers you good spaces on and off the mat! She looks forward to working with the members of Survivor Wellness.
Angie Castor // Breathwork Practitioner
Andrew Johnson // Foundation Training Instructor
Andrew leads Stronger Than Cancer, a Foundation Training-based class, for the members of Survivor Wellness.
Andrew Johnson (he/him) is a certified Foundation Training Instructor and Functional Strength Coach committed to helping individuals overcome pain and enhance their overall well-being. His passion for this work is deeply personal; stemming from his own journey of overcoming chronic back pain through the development of proper breathing and movement patterns. This transformative experience shaped Andrew's belief that everyone has the innate ability to heal and live a more fulfilling life.
Andrew's teaching philosophy focuses on self-discovery and self-awareness, empowering his students with the tools and knowledge to care for their bodies and live with confidence. Through his holistic approach, he guides individuals on a path to wellbeing, improved performance, and cultivating lifelong strength and posture.
• INDIVIDUAL WELLNESS SERVICES:
Colette Ruff //Licensed Esthetician, Certified Oncology Esthetician
Colette offers Deep Healing Skincare sessions for members of Survivor Wellness.
Colette (she/her) is a licensed esthetician specializing in oncology facials and oncology-specific skincare treatment. Nourishing the skin - the first layer of the body - during and after treatment for cancer can provide relief from side effects of treatment, and requires individualized care from a trained practitioner. Colette also focuses on nourishing the digestive system through attention to nutrition. She is trained in reflexology, Reiki and sound therapy, and recognizes that human touch is essential for healing.
An oncology facial (Deep Healing Skincare Treatment) with Colette includes deep skin hydration with hands-on treatment for the face, head, neck, hands, and arms, and may also include reflexology, Reiki, and sound therapy. She uses organic products that keep the skin hydrated, counteracting the drying effects of cancer treatment and environmental stress. Learn more about oncology esthetics here.
Colette is passionate about breast health, educating individuals on how to take care of theirs, as well as creating and selling handmade breast and body oils. She is also a Pranashakti dance instructor, using its dance-like movement to improve energy flow through the body.
Colette grew up in Utah, and spent 25 years in Austin, TX raising her sons and sharpening her skills. She recently moved back to Salt Lake City, and is happy to be back in the mountains. She enjoys live music, dance, hiking, yoga, meditation and is an avid writer and gardener.
Holly Taylor, BSN, RN, HNB-BC // Craniosacral Therapy
Holly offers Craniosacral Therapy for members of Survivor Wellness.
As a Board Certified Holistic Nurse specializing in Craniosacral Therapy, Holly combines her background in nursing with integrative tools to assist clients. Her Craniosacral Therapy sessions may also include Acupressure and Reiki. This approach includes the totality of a person's mind, body, emotion and spirit. In a world of extremes we are all striving for more balance and a greater sense of peace. Specifically, in our health care system, there is a gap between 'modern medicine' and 'holistic care'; while many people believe that you must choose one or another, holistic nursing care demonstrates that there is room for both and that they complement each other. Through embracing both, we can achieve balance in our approach to wellness. Holly enjoys hiking with her husband and dogs, and planning their next hiking adventure!
Holly has established The Holistic Nursing Academy to train nurses in integrative health care. Contact her for more information from this page.
• In addition to her volunteer days at Survivor Wellness, Holly also offers private, reduced-rate craniosacral therapy sessions for Survivor Wellness clients at 57 House. Contact us to find out how to book with her.
Kiera Lucich, LMT // Licensed Massage Therapist
Kiera offers Massage Therapy for members of Survivor Wellness.
• In addition to her volunteer days at Survivor Wellness, Kiera also offers massage therapy sessions via her business, Smart Move Wellness at 57 House. (Survivor Wellness members receive a discounted rate for paid sessions.) Book a session here, or contact us to reach her directly.
Kristen Davis, C-IAYT // Yoga Therapy
Lisa Reid // Life Coaching
Lisa offers Life Coaching for Cancer and Beyond for members of Survivor Wellness.
Lisa is a Holden certified qigong instructor and is currently completing certification requirements for Wayfinder Life Coaching. Lisa likes to incorporate a bottom-up, top-down approach to help clients discover ways to make the best decisions to move their life forward. Blending a polyvagal perspective and movement, Lisa can help you understand, through a bottom-up approach, how to relax your nervous system. These powerful tools can make changes in your physiology that can lead to better access of your higher level thought processes. Using a variety of structured “thought work” tools, Lisa partners with clients as they discover ways to make authentic decisions for themselves. Coupled with the embodiment work of qigong where appropriate, she can show you that you can have more control over your physiological responses to stress than you might currently realize. Clients can regain a sense of control, tame the “monkey-mind” and move forward in a direction they choose.
Lisa also enjoys gardening, hiking, camping, foraging, dancing, reading and connecting with family and friends.
Meg Hansen // Reiki Master, Level III
Meg offers Reiki sessions for members of Survivor Wellness.
A certified Reiki Master, Meg (she/her) also brings sound work, breathwork and reflexology to her clients. In the mortgage industry for 10 years, Meg moved into the Holistic Wellness field after having a profound change in her personal life. Several years ago, Meg went into liver failure. As she investigated the reason for her sudden decline in health, she was introduced to Adrienne Shulze, who offered Reiki to Survivor Wellness clients from 2018-2023. After dedicating her efforts to both healing with and learning from Adrienne, Meg is happy to say she has completely normal liver functions. Through this experience, Meg has become a devoted advocate of the beneficial effects of Reiki.
Meg grew up in Salt Lake City before moving to Portland, Oregon, to raise her two children. After 12 years in Oregon, she decided to move closer to her family and has been back home ever since. She loves Utah and its year-round outdoor activities.
Meg is truly honored to be able to donate time to the cancer survivor community at Survivor Wellness, and is excited to meet and work with you!
• In addition to her volunteer days at Survivor Wellness, Meg also offers reduced cost reiki sessions for enrolled members through her small business, Balanced Soul Healing, at 57 House. Learn more on the Wellness Partner page!
Monalisa King // Reiki Practitioner
Monalisa offers Reiki sessions for members of Survivor Wellness.
Monalisa is a 2nd Degree Usui Holy Fire Reiki practitioner, she is currently working to become a Reiki Master. She is passionate about holistic healing. Her technique allows clients to experience a calming, peaceful state, bringing energetic healing to mind, body and spirit, collectively.
Monalisa and her daughter received services from the Survivor Wellness / Cancer Wellness House from 2015-2017, while her husband was battling bile duct cancer and she was his primary caretaker. During that time, she had a desire to give back to Survivor Wellness in some way. Now that she is a Reiki Practitioner, she is excited about the opportunity to help clients, their caretakers and families.
Monalisa's husband died in 2016; at that time, Survivor Wellness provided so many resources to her and her daughter, she is honored to now be able to give back to a place that brought so much healing.
• SPECIAL EVENT STAFF // ADJUNCT FACULTY
Shelley Mehr // Certified Wim Hof Method Instructor
Shelley offers workshops in the Wim Hof Method for Survivor Wellness.
As a somatic healer, Shelley (she/her) guides you on a journey to an exquisite internal space where you balance out your central nervous system with fierce expansion and compassion in a way that is instant and complete.
Shelley’s focus is to inspire and co-create with people who are ready for happiness, health and strength. When Shelley is supporting someone through their inner world of evolution and growth she is passionate about the true essence of each unique individual she comes into contact with. Shelley believes in consciously breathing, facing fear and using stress to balance out the internal systems in a way that trusts the body’s wisdom through feeling fully, letting go of what doesn’t serve and moving into an empowered state with whatever you are facing in life. Shelley has been a bodyworker for 11 years. Through her passion of studying the body, she received her certification as a Wim Hof Method instructor in 2018. She has led many people through conscious breathwork and ice baths to gain a better awareness of the mind-body connection. Learn more about Shelley here!
Jacqueline Morasco // Yoga Therapy
Jacqueline Morasco (she/her), MS, CYT(Certified Yoga Therapist), E-RYT 500 (Registered Yoga Teacher Educator), YACEP (registered continuing education provider), artist, author, healer, retreat leader, science nerd and teacher, is the author of the bestselling book Wake Up and creator of Mantra Oracle Cards, SOUL Sound and Spirited Practice. Having recently experienced TNBC and its treatment, she understands the intricacies of dealing with side effects and navigating the health care system. She has over 25 years of energy work, leading retreats, doing ceremony, teaching yoga, meditation and chanting to groups and individuals. Truly, she is a life-long learner and teacher. She writes a blog at www.spiritedpractice.com, and you can watch Jacqueline's TEDx talk on coordinated healthcare here.
Jamie Covington // Art Wellness
Jamie offers Art Wellness sessions at Survivor Wellness events.
Jamie (she/her) has a BS in psychology and is a landscape artist (oil/ plein aire) by hobby. She has worked in art wellness since 2017, starting at Siteman Cancer at Washington University Hospital in St. Louis, MO. After moving to SLC she helped build the Art To Go program at Huntsman Cancer Institute, so patients could participate in art wellness while receiving treatment. She is currently volunteering her time to run the program one day a week for patients and caregivers. Jamie believes healing comes in art, the creation of it, the process of it, and the spark that awaits while gathering the courage to give it a try.
Jamie is honored to donate her time to Survivor Wellness and hopes that you will find joy and healing from art and its processes.
In her free time Jamie is a dedicated skier, rock climber and community service advocate/participant. She loves being outdoors and spending time with her family and dog.
Karen Bayard // Whole Body Laughter
Karen offers Whole Body Laughter sessions for events at Survivor Wellness.
Karen Bayard (she/her) wrote the curriculum and taught the first ever semester-long, for-credit, college-level Laughter Yoga course in the United States at Salt Lake Community College. Karen has created playshops and fun-infused training programs internationally for Trinity College, Huntsman Cancer Institute, ProBar, University of Utah, Western Governors University & Valley Mental Health. Karen also writes, produces & performs as a stand-up and improv comedian. As a Certified Laughter Yoga Teacher, Holistic Health Coach, and former Board Member of the Association of Applied & Therapeutic Humor, Karen is passionate about the use of humor & play as tools for vibrant, inspired, and purposeful living.
• Currently living outside of SLC, Karen also returns periodically to offer River Writing Workshops and comedy performances in town, often at Survivor Wellness! Learn more about her work here!
Katie Jo Welch // Drum Goddess
