Meet the trainers:

Dr. Yevgeniy Gelfand, MD

Dr. Yevgeniy Gelfand received his Medical degree from SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn NY in 2006. Fascinated with overall wellness as well as the mind-body interface, he went on to complete combined training in both internal medicine and psychiatry at the Medical University of South Carolina. Since completing his residency at MUSC, Dr. Gelfand has worked in Emergency and inpatient psychiatry as the medical director of an intensive outpatient mental health program.

As a practicing psychiatrist, Dr. Gelfand’s approach is holistic, informed as it is by both his medical and psychiatric experience. He strongly believes in the transformative power of mindfulness, therapeutic processes and psychotherapy.

He participated in a clinical trial investigating using MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for treatment resistant PTSD through MAPS. This experience, as both Clinical investigator and therapist in the study, was pivotal for Dr. Gelfand, as it deepened his understanding of trauma and how to work with it.  

Accordingly, Dr. Gelfand became one of the first ketamine-assisted psychotherapy providers in SC. He utilizes this treatment modality to catalyze transformative processes, especially for those who suffer from depression, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Gelfand's experience working with psychedelic medicines help him provide unique support to those who seek to clarify and integrate their journeys towards peace and wellness.

Robin Landers, LCSW

Robin Landers, LCSW is a highly experienced psychotherapist, educator, and certified EMDR therapist, as well as an EMDRIA-approved consultant. With over two decades in mental health treatment, she specializes in trauma-informed care and innovative therapeutic approaches. Based in Austin, Texas, Robin has been at the forefront of integrating EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), pioneering protocols that enhance healing and transformation.

After years in solo private practice, Robin co-founded Connected Heart Therapy, expanding her commitment to holistic mental health care and professional education. As an EMDR consultant and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy trainer, she facilitates basic trainings, mentors clinicians, and educates other mental health professionals in EMDR and KAP protocols. Her expertise is rooted in a deep understanding of trauma, healing and the transformative power of personal growth. 

Robin’s clinical work spans individual and couples therapy, with a focus on complex trauma, psychedelic-assisted therapies, and systems-centered therapy. She has worked with diverse populations, from adolescents in the juvenile justice system to adults seeking transformative therapeutic experiences. Trained in MDMA-Assisted Therapy, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, and Systems-Centered Therapy, she brings a compassionate, integrative approach to mental health treatment.

Robin remains deeply dedicated to advancing the field through training, mentorship, and innovative clinical applications, continually refining her work to support both clients and fellow professionals in achieving meaningful psychological change.

Wendy Byrd, MA, LMFT, LPC

Wendy Byrd, LMFT, LPC is a distinguished psychotherapist, educator, and EMDRIA Approved Trainer based in Austin, Texas. She brings extensive expertise in innovative therapeutic approaches, including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) and EMDR. She has been featured on Good Morning America and in Newsweek, speaking to the transformative potential of these cutting-edge therapeutic modalities.

Since establishing her practice in 2007, Wendy has become known for her holistic approach to therapy and professional education. Her expertise in KAP is grounded in a deep understanding of trauma, healing, and the profound potential for personal transformation. As an EMDRIA Approved Trainer, she has dedicated herself to advancing the field by training and mentoring other mental health professionals in both EMDR and KAP protocols.

Throughout her career, Wendy has demonstrated leadership in the mental health community through her service on both local and national professional associations' boards. She has presented at national conferences, particularly noted for her innovative work in integrating various therapeutic modalities, including her approach to incorporating EMDR into couples therapy. Her background includes significant experience working with complex trauma, having previously specialized in adolescent and child therapy in residential treatment settings.