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Management Team

Deborah Norris, Ph.D., Founder and Executive Director

Dr. Norris is the Founder and Executive Director of The Mindfulness Center. She is trained extensively in mind-body therapies, ranging from traditional medical and psychotherapeutic practices to holistic and integrative therapies and lifestyle practices. A health scientist with over 30 years of experience in research, clinical application and education, Dr. Norris brings meditation and other lifestyle wellness programs to the forefront of your health plan.

Dr. Norris has a B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. in psychology/ psychopharmacology, and is Adjunct Professor and Psychologist-in-Residence in the Department of Psychology at American University. Dr. Norris teaches and conducts research in behavioral medicine, and other complementary and alternative approaches to wellbeing. As Adjunct Professor at American University, Dr. Norris has also taught Stress Management in the Health/Fitness Department. Dr. Norris can help you identify the causes of stress in your life, and to gain control over stress.

Dr. Norris was previously on the faculty in the Psychiatry Department at Georgetown University Medical School, and taught research principles in psychopharmacology to the Medical residents at the Veteran's Affairs Medical Center. Dr. Norris worked for 15 years as a health scientist specializing in neurotoxicology and environmental illnesses at the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Dr. Norris has studied a number of mind-body-spirit modalities. She has intensive training through the Washington Center for Consciousness Studies in the theory and practice of Gestalt Psychotherapy and meditation. She has also trained with the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis. Integrating her studies of mind and body, Dr. Norris is certified in exercise physiology by the American College of Sports Medicine and other certifying organizations. She is an instructor for the Arthritis Foundation. In her quest for continuing education in healing modalities, Dr. Norris is also trained and certified in a number of forms of bioenergetic healing, including Reconnective Healing (TM) with Dr. Eric Pearl. Dr. Norris has over thirty years of experience in health sciences, exercise and dance.

In her practice, Dr. Norris integrates lifestyle elements of meditation, physical exercise, spiritual development, relaxation therapy, energy work, imagery, nutrition and herbalism for maximal health and happiness! Working with you and your physicians, Dr. Norris and the team members of The Mindfulness Center can help you formulate an integrative approach to your health care.

Jessie Norris, Interior Design, Sustainable Building, and Feng Shui Consultant

Jessie is a Feng Shui Consultant in the DC area who also studies Interior Architecture and Sustainable Design. Her work can be seen in the beautiful tranquility of the Mindfulness Center, in Bethesda MD. She incorporated environmental sustainability and the principles of Feng Shui, as well as her unique talent for organic, artful design, to create the harmonious and healing atmosphere that prevails at the Center. Contact Jessie for consultations on Interior Design, Feng Shui and Sustainable Living.

Jacqueline Norris, Business Director

Jacqueline is a graduate of Frostburg State University. Jacqueline majored in Business with a concentration in General Management. During her studies in Frostburg, Jacqueline became Vice President of the Society for Advancement of Management, and attended the Sloop Institute for Excellence in Leadership. Jacqueline has worked for Science for Health & Energy, Inc., the parent-company of The Mindfulness Center, since 2007.

Nancy Voit, Community Outreach

Nancy Voit is a community volunteer for 10 years working with school and community groups to enhance quality of life in Bethesda. Nancy's professional experiences include fundraising for the National Aquarium in Baltimore and Center Stage Associates and direct sales consultant for Melaleuca, Inc. It is a love for nature and quality of life which draws Nancy to work with The Mindfulness Center to promote earth care and personal wellbeing.

Jill Caviness, Associate Director Mind-Body Program for Cancer

Jill has been interning at The Mindfulness Center since September 2009. She is a graduate of Vanderbilt University (BA '07) and received her Master's degree in psychology from American University in 2010, where she studied behavioral medicine and mind-body practices with Dr. Norris (founder and director of The Mindfulness Center). As the Associate Director of The Mindfulness Center's Mind-Body Program for Cancer, Jill has helped to develop a donation-based program providing emotional support and lifestyle information for cancer patients, caregivers, and physicians. A former cancer-caregiver herself, Jill is passionate about supporting the cancer experience for all involved. Beginning in June, she will act as a facilitator for the weekly cancer support groups.