Jul 2, 2025
Meditation is a practice that intimidates many people. Silence, coupled with the act of observing rather than acting, often evokes emotions such as despair and loneliness. But what if we applied the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM©) to the experience of meditative silence?
On this episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth is in conversation with Alli Malnik, a NARM-trained mental health counselor who frequently assists with large meditation events held worldwide. The pair discuss Alli’s professional journey and the role that NARM played in her personal healing. Alli also shares observations from her event work on efforting and discomfort and explains how she incorporates NARM themes of connection, curiosity, and trust to extend the meditative benefits beyond these organized gatherings.
About Alli Malnik:
Alli Malnik, MS, LMHC, is a NARM-trained therapist licensed in Florida and Colorado. Her current specialties focus on complex trauma, relational aspects, attachment difficulties, anxiety, and depression. She’s also trained in EMDR and assists her clients by creating a safe space to explore effective ways to relate to others.
Originally from Miami Beach, Alli attended Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, where she received a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. She later earned a master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University in 2016, after working as a fourth-grade teacher. In her free time, Alli enjoys the beach, hiking, football, meditation, her dogs, and spending time with her three children.
Learn More:
To read the full show notes and discover more resources, visit https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/transformingtrauma
SPACE:
SPACE is an Inner Development Program of Support and Self-Discovery for Therapists on the Personal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal Levels offered by the Complex Trauma Training Center. This experiential learning program offers an immersive group experience designed to cultivate space for self-care, community support, and deepening vitality in our professional role as therapists. Learn more about how to join.
***
The Complex Trauma Training Center:
https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com
View upcoming trainings:
https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/
The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD).
CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal.
The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care.
We want to connect with you!
Facebook @complextraumatrainingcenter
Instagram @complextraumatrainingcenter