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Mindfulness Institute - Meet the Team

The Mindfulness Institute is a new Whole Health program focused on improving the health and well-being of Veterans and Staff, through the promotion of evidence-based Mindfulness Training across the VA Portland Healthcare System.

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Meet the Team

Picture of Ellen Kessi, licensed clinical social worker

Ellen Kessi, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Ellen has been a licensed clinical social worker at VA Portland for over 20 years. She has worked in a variety of settings and programs, including oncology, neurology and polytrauma. She currently is the social work care coordinator for the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) clinic.  She is a certified mindfulness facilitator (VA CALM) and is passionate about the VA's roll-out of Whole Health – working with veterans in the areas of health and wellness.   She enjoys spending time in the great outdoors, as well as travel with family and friends.​

Picture of doctor Hidalgo, Psychologist

Nina Hidalgo, PhD

Dr. Hidalgo has a doctorate in counseling psychology from the University of Oregon with specialist training in primary care/mental health integration as well as women's health from VA Portland.  In addition, she is a certified mindfulness facilitator (VA CALM) and registered yoga teacher (500-RYT). Fascinated with the complexity of mind-body relationships and their capacity for healing, Dr. Hidalgo brings passion to her role as a pain psychologist and mindfulness facilitator in the Center for Integrative Care at VA Portland. Dr. Hidalgo also grounds her work in her values of accessibility, cultural humility, and social justice. Outside of her role at the VA, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, nature, and her favorite four-legged friend (Cooper).  ​

 

  • A whole health program focused on improving the health and well-being of Veterans and staff

  • Online and virtual classes

  • Guided audio practices, videos, apps, books and more

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