Belleruth Naparstek

Belleruth Naparstek is a clinical social worker and author, recognized for her pioneering work in guided imagery and its application in healthcare. After pioneering the development of a guided imagery library of self-administered audio programs, which were adopted by numerous hospitals and clinics seeking to integrate alternative medicine practices, Belleruth Naparstek went on to establish herself as a leading clinical social worker and author. Her early career saw her gaining practical experience in direct patient care within hospitals and clinics, following her graduate studies in social work at the University of Chicago. She also contributed significantly to academia, teaching at Case Western Reserve University, where she further honed her expertise in therapeutic interventions.

Naparstek currently serves on the faculty of the University of Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine’s post-doctoral Fellowship Program, where she teaches Guided Imagery. Her contributions have been instrumental in integrating guided imagery into major U.S. healthcare institutions, significantly helping to improve patient outcomes through gentle and inexpensive mind-body techniques, particularly for those dealing with trauma like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She remains a key force in advancing holistic and evidence-based therapeutic practices.