For many, life doesn’t follow a straight path, and for Alissa Germond, that winding journey led her to Southwest Institute of Healing Arts (SWIHA). Now a student in the Integrative Healing Arts Practitioner (IHAP) program, Alissa is on track to graduate in February 2026 with a diploma, along with certificates in Spiritual Coaching, End of Life Doula work, and Yoga Nidra. She has also enriched her studies with Holistic Entrepreneur and Business Development classes—each step shaping the foundation for her transformative work with others.
Before SWIHA: Searching for Meaning
Before enrolling at SWIHA, Alissa describes her life as “genuinely lost and confused.” Facing sickness, depression, and a deep sense of uncertainty, she spent nights searching for direction and purpose beyond her role as a mother. Though she grew up without a spiritual framework, Alissa was deeply inspired by her maternal grandmother, an energy healer who ran her own business. Her grandmother’s passing and the subsequent experiences of loss sparked a curiosity that would ultimately guide her toward SWIHA.
“I felt their presence,” Alissa shares, “I knew there was more to it. I began looking into different spiritual ‘jobs’ that may spark my interest. I fell in love with so many different courses at SWIHA; it was genuinely hard to choose.”
A Defining Moment
Acceptance into SWIHA marked a turning point for Alissa. She recognized immediately that this was the path she was meant to take. Even as a single mom navigating the challenges of parenting and life, she remained committed.
“Even at the toughest part in my SWIHA journey, I didn’t want to give up. If anything, the hard days make me strive harder. I know this is for me, despite struggles and current setbacks.”
Transformation and Growth
Since beginning her journey at SWIHA, Alissa’s life has transformed. She has stepped out of her comfort zone, gained confidence, and taken control of her career and personal growth.
“I can look back and see how far I’ve come. It can always be better, and I’ll always strive for more, yet reflecting allows me to celebrate my accomplishments and growth,” she says.
Professionally, Alissa is marketing her skills, building her business, and beginning to support clients in meaningful ways. Personally, she continues to expand her resources, network, and knowledge—all lessons she hopes to pass down to her children as a way of life.
Soulful Holdingspace: A Heart-Centered Business
Alissa’s passion has culminated in her business, Soulful Holdingspace, where she guides clients through end-of-life preparation and personal growth. Her work is rooted in helping people experience life and death with authenticity and support.
“Attending SWIHA has allowed me to see that this work and being supportive doesn’t take away anyone’s problems or pain—it simply makes it bearable to have support, knowing you are not alone,” she reflects.
Lessons Learned at SWIHA
Throughout her studies, Alissa has embraced key lessons that continue to shape her practice: the power of being true to oneself, the importance of slowing down, and understanding that healing is not linear. She also emphasizes the significance of energy and how it impacts everything around us.
“I’ve learned how powerful it is to slow down and stay/live in the moment… everything is energy. Understanding this changes your view of the world,” she says.
Alissa credits her teachers for their guidance and wisdom, highlighting Professor Michael Dye for his impactful lessons on time management and personal accountability.
Advice for Future Students
Her advice for those following a similar path is simple yet powerful: “Keep going. Even when you feel stuck and start to reconsider if you can handle it, JUST KEEP GOING. It’s so worth it.”
A Journey of Transformation
Alissa’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of SWIHA’s holistic programs. From feeling lost and searching for purpose to building a meaningful career and life, she exemplifies what it means to embrace growth, healing, and self-discovery. As she continues her studies and expands her practice, there’s no doubt that Alissa’s light will continue to touch the lives of those she serves.