Journey to a Higher Realm: Positive Psychology

Native Vermonter Marla Simpson, M.A., leads us away from negativity and illness and takes us on a journey into the higher realm of positive psychology. She explores how our focus on healing energy, love, light - in other words 'what works and what is actually healing' -- plays a critical role in the recovery journey. 

In this show, Marla draws on her extensive lived experience of dual recovery from both mental health and substance use challenges.  As one of the last patients evacuated from the Vermont State Hospital when hurricane Irene hit VT in 2011, Marla takes a firm stand against forced medications and coercive methods of treatment. Instead, Marla bears witness to the transformative effects of a clean and sober, health and wellness-oriented lifestyle. Striving daily to model a positive, effective voice for change and healing,  Marla urges us "We are all on this journey in life together. Let's work & live in harmony, peace, & love." 

A graduate of Middlebury College and Antioch University New England, Marla holds a BA in theatre and a Masters Degree in Counseling. Marla loves cooking, reading, animals, walking, arts, music, movies & spending time with her boyfriend, the love of her life. She is a passionate advocate for animal and human rights believing that 'every animal & human being deserves a safe & loving home.' Marla is a member of Governor's Standing Committee on Adult Mental Health.  She works for the Vermont Support Line operated by Pathways Vermont and finds her job engaging, healing & very rewarding. Marla has traveled the world but Vermont is her favorite home.