On Saturday, August 24, the Student Council on Antioch University’s Los Angeles campus welcomed back Siri Sat Nam, PhD, the noted TV therapist and alum of the MA in Clinical Psychology. The meet-and-greet drew a full house of over thirty students, faculty, and alumni, who came out to spend time with Sat Nam, who is perhaps best known for his Viceland show The Therapist, where he conducted therapy sessions with celebrities including Katy Perry and Waka Flocka. Known for his compassionate approach to psychology and spiritual wisdom, Dr. Sat Nam offered attendees an inspiring evening filled with conversation and valuable networking opportunities. The event gave the Antioch community a chance to engage with a fellow Antiochian who has made a profound impact in psychology, the world of spiritual practice, and BIPOC psychology practitioners and seekers.
“Having taught here and just listening to the students connecting at this event, I remember just how much I loved Antioch students,” said Sat Nam towards the end of the event. He went on, “I’ve taught many places, but the students at Antioch are so heartfelt and curious, and I can see how they really want to do well in the field.”
The first hour of the event featured the voices of many attendees speaking openly about the challenges they were facing and connecting around solving these problems. Many alumni spoke directly to the challenges that face new therapists in the field, from getting hours for licensure to starting one’s own practice. Recent alumni Magda Herrera shared insights into the challenges of establishing and maintaining her private practice. She said, “It’s wonderful to connect with current students and pass on what I’ve learned from working in the field. There are so many exciting new developments, and I’m gaining fresh perspectives and learning from them as well. It’s truly rewarding to come full circle in this way.”
Then the second hour of the event featured Sat Nam taking the stage to speak about his own journey, share his advice, and answer audience questions. Sat Nam himself not only studied at Antioch but also spent time as faculty in the MA in Clinical Psychology. This made the event a meaningful homecoming for the distinguished alum. And his visit to Antioch allowed current students to gain insight into his career and learn about the broad possibilities in the fields of psychology and mental health services.
Derrick Knight, one of the leaders of the Los Angeles campus’s Student Council, had the initial idea for this networking event. “I did a lot of research about my own career as a licensed therapist and found Dr. Siri,” explained Knight. “I thought it was great to see his success, and I wanted to connect with other alumni and give an opportunity for alumni and students to connect too,” said Knight.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Sat Nam has spent decades helping people navigate emotional, psychological, and relational challenges. Sat Nam’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Carleton College. He later came to Antioch for his MA in Clinical Psychology, where he pursued the Spiritual and Depth Psychology concentration. He went on to pursue a PhD in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute. He also spent time teaching as an affiliate faculty in the Antioch MA in Clinical Psychology.
Sat Nam’s approach to psychology today transcends traditional psychology, incorporating a blend of Eastern spiritual philosophies and yogic practices. “I began practicing yoga in the 70’s,” he explained at the event. At the time, he said, it was “far before I knew that path would lead to a career in psychology.” To this day, he practices meditation for a minimum of two hours a day.
Sat Nam has received international recognition for being a dynamic lecturer on Eastern spirituality and a master teacher of yoga. He has facilitated workshops across the United States and Europe, helping individuals explore their spiritual paths and develop emotional wisdom. His teaching style and philosophy resonate with those seeking deeper self-awareness and emotional healing. By combining depth psychology with practices of yoga and meditation, he provides holistic care that fosters growth on multiple levels—mental, emotional, and spiritual.
A major highlight of his recent work is his book, The Pocket Guru: Guidance and Mantras for Spiritual Awakening and Emotional Wisdom. During the event, attendees had the opportunity to purchase a copy of this practical guide for those looking to explore spiritual growth and emotional well-being. Packed with mantras, affirmations, and insights, The Pocket Guru draws from Sat Nam’s extensive knowledge of both Eastern philosophies and psychological principles, offering readers tools for navigating life’s challenges with mindfulness and clarity.
In addition to his contributions as a therapist and teacher, Sat Nam became a familiar face to the public through his role on Viceland’s television series, The Therapist. On this show, Sat Nam conducted therapy sessions with high-profile musicians, helping them unpack the emotional and psychological complexities that often come with fame. His compassionate and insightful approach resonated with viewers, allowing the general public to witness the powerful impact of therapy on mental and emotional health. The event offered not only a chance to learn from Sat Nam but also a chance for students and alumni to connect with one another. Attendees were welcomed by a relaxed atmosphere, complete with coffee and refreshments and ample time for mingling before the main event began. Students were encouraged to share their own journey with the entire room as the gathering served as a prime opportunity for networking and forming connections that could shape their future careers.
The chance to meet Sat Nam in person and discuss his career path was a major draw for many in attendance. He spent time engaging with students, sharing stories from his early career struggles and his path to becoming an internationally recognized therapist and spiritual teacher. For many of the current psychology students, this face-to-face interaction was valuable. Listening to someone who had walked the same halls and encountered similar challenges offered both inspiration and practical advice.
Sat Nam’s speech touched on the importance of authenticity in one’s career, particularly in the field of psychology, where professionals often deal with their own deep, personal issues through their work for others. He spoke candidly about his own journey, where he started off as a backup dancer in the entertainment industry. The realization that everyone in that world was facing mental health crises led him towards therapy. He urged students to remain true to themselves and their passions, even in the face of uncertainty. He also emphasized the importance of self-care, particularly for those entering the mental health profession, and he reminded students that in order to help others, they must first ensure their own mental and emotional well-being.
One of the key messages Sat Nam imparted to attendees was the importance of integrating academic knowledge with experiential learning. Antioch University’s educational philosophy—rooted in social justice and experiential application—played a significant role in shaping his career. His ability to engage with people from all walks of life, whether in therapy sessions or public talks, is partly a testament to Antioch’s emphasis on human-centered learning.
The event was not only about Sat Nam’s personal journey but also about providing students with the tools and connections they need to succeed. Antioch alumni from various fields were present, giving current students the chance to network with individuals who have made significant strides in their careers. For many students, these conversations offered guidance, potential mentorship, and a broader understanding of the opportunities that lie ahead in their professional lives.
As the evening came to a close, it was clear that Siri Sat Nam’s visit had left an impression on all in attendance. His ability to combine psychological insight with spiritual wisdom sets him apart as a thought leader in both fields. For current Antioch students, his story serves as a reminder of the possibilities that come with perseverance, authenticity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Sat Nam’s return to Antioch University was not only a celebration of his success but also a testament to the enduring influence of the Antioch community in shaping compassionate, driven professionals ready to make their mark on the world.
