Sometimes the path you're meant to follow doesn't appear all at once—it unfolds one meaningful step at a time.
For recent Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA) graduate Suzanne Harvin, that path began with a feeling many people know all too well: working in a career that no longer aligned with who she truly was.
Today, Suzanne is preparing to launch a holistic healing business rooted in Intuitive Coaching, Reiki, Yoga Nidra Meditation, Sacred Earth Ceremonies, and Creative Arts Workshops. Her journey through SWIHA's Integrative Healing Arts Practitioner (IHAP) Diploma with a specialty in Healing Botanicals & Earth Ceremonies helped transform a dream into a clear vision—and gave her the confidence to build a career centered around healing others.
Before enrolling at SWIHA, Suzanne spent her days working a full-time job that no longer reflected her passions or purpose.
"I was working a full-time job in a field that felt misaligned," she shares. "Deep down I wanted to be an entrepreneur, and I wanted to support people on their healing journey."
She knew she wanted more than a career change—she wanted work that honored the whole person.
"I wanted to learn a holistic approach that supported the mind, emotional body, spiritual body, and physical body."
As she explored her options, SWIHA immediately stood out.
"Years ago, I was looking for a school that would allow me to explore all of my gifts and passions. I've always been a spiritual seeker and a metaphysical enthusiast. I wanted to find a school that embraced all of that."
Then came the realization that changed everything.
"SWIHA felt like home."
Every healing practitioner has a moment when they realize they're exactly where they're supposed to be.
For Suzanne, there were several.
The first came during her Intuitive Coaching classes, when she began working with volunteer clients.
"It felt aligned."
Another arrived when her studies expanded into energetic healing practices.
"When we began learning about pendulums, chakras, and crystals for healing, I absolutely knew I was on the right path."
Those experiences confirmed that healing wasn't simply something she wanted to learn—it was work she was meant to do.
One of the beautiful aspects of holistic education is that the practices students learn often become part of their own lives.
For Suzanne, this became one of the most meaningful parts of her journey.
"My world has expanded a lot because of this journey."
She discovered a deep love for herbs and flower essences, incorporating them into her own wellness routine while learning how to support others.
"The healing modalities I share with clients are practices I also incorporate into my own life."
As her education progressed, so did her vision.
"In the beginning, I wasn't entirely sure what shape my business would take. Now I can see the vision much more clearly."
She also realized something every aspiring wellness entrepreneur eventually learns:
"Creating a successful healing practice requires more than healing skills alone—it also involves understanding marketing, business development, and the importance of building a supportive community."
As she steps into the next chapter of starting She Phoenix Rizes, Suzanne is focused on creating a business that reflects her authentic approach to healing.
She plans to offer:
She's also exploring opportunities in corporate wellness while growing her online community through social media.
Rather than trying to fit into someone else's definition of success, Suzanne is creating a practice built on genuine connection.
"I want clients to feel safe and supported in my presence."
She credits SWIHA with helping her strengthen her healing abilities as well as her confidence in communicating with clients and navigating the business side of entrepreneurship.
Looking back on her time at SWIHA, Suzanne says several lessons continue to guide her every day.
One of her biggest takeaways came from her business classes.
"GRIT is important in business."
She learned that success isn't about avoiding obstacles—it's about staying committed through them.
"It takes GRIT to push through the challenges."
Another lesson was to stop hiding who she truly is.
"Allow your authenticity to shine."
She believes that sharing your story honestly is what builds lasting trust and meaningful community.
Organization and structure became essential themes throughout her education.
"When it comes to building a business, it is important to have a foundation, structure, and organization."
Graduation isn't the finish line.
"Keep learning. Don't stop."
Like many holistic practitioners, Suzanne sees education as a lifelong journey.
Perhaps the lesson she holds closest is one many healing professionals need to hear.
"Before you show up for clients, it's important to show up for yourself."
She believes prioritizing creativity, rest, joy, and personal wellness allows practitioners to better support those they serve.
Although choosing favorites wasn't easy, Suzanne says several instructors left a lasting impression.
She especially appreciated:
Each instructor helped shape her professional skills and her confidence as an emerging practitioner.
For those considering their own healing arts education, Suzanne offers thoughtful advice:
"Prepare and create structure in your life beforehand."
She encourages future students to intentionally create time and space for their education, healing practices, self-reflection, and personal growth.
"Most importantly, commit fully to the process."
She believes that having a supportive routine allows students to stay open to the transformation that naturally unfolds throughout the program.
As Suzanne graduates and prepares to officially launch her holistic practice, one feeling stands above all the rest.
"Just that I am deeply grateful for this experience."
Her story is a reminder that healing careers often begin with the courage to listen to your intuition. By embracing authenticity, lifelong learning, and holistic wellness, Suzanne has created a foundation for a purpose-driven future—one where she can guide others toward healing while continuing her own journey of growth.
If you've been searching for a career that aligns with your purpose, passions, and desire to help others, SWIHA's Integrative Healing Arts Practitioner (IHAP) Diploma offers an immersive education in holistic wellness, coaching, energy healing, business development, and personal transformation.
Like Suzanne, you may discover that you're not just finding a new career—you’re finding a place that feels like home.
Explore upcoming IHAP programs and take the first step toward your own healing arts journey today.