The idea for Vikara Center emerged from a blend of Josie’s personal and professional experiences, along with a powerful vision shared with her partner, Brian. Together, they are committed to being a positive force for change, offering a sanctuary for those on a path of wellness, growth, and transformation.

Meet Josie Kramer, MA, LMT, CYT, CHC

Josie Kramer is a Somatic Therapist, Transpersonal Guide, Yoga & Meditation Teacher, Health Coach, Bodyworker, and Co-founder of Vikara Center. With over 16 years of experience, her work is rooted in transformative practices that have supported her own journey toward healing, health, and wholeness.

As a therapist, Josie draws from a rich integration of somatic, spiritual, and psychological modalities to help clients release trauma, cultivate well-being, and deepen personal and spiritual growth. Whether through one-on-one sessions, group classes, online programs, or immersive retreats at Vikara, she creates a compassionate and trauma-informed space for healing and transformation.

Credentials: 

• Ph.D. Candidate in Integral and Transpersonal Psychology, California Institute of Integral Studies — 2025

• Somatic Experiencing Practitioner-in-Training, Somatic Experiencing International — 2025

• M.A. in Transpersonal Psychology, Sofia University — 2013

• Certified Health Coach, Institute for Integrative Nutrition — 2010

• Licensed Massage Therapist (550 hours), Institute of Psycho-Structural Balancing — 2008

• B.A. in Traditional Eastern Arts, Minor in Somatic Psychology, Naropa University — 2007

  • Includes 1,000-hour Certified Yoga Teacher Training

• Certified Yoga Teacher (200 hours), Center for Yoga — 2004

For more information, please visit www.josie-kramer.com

Meet Brian MacLaggan

Brian is an Entrepreneur, Transpersonal Support Guide and Co-founder of Vikara Center.

During his personal "middle passage," a concept explored by James Hollis, Brian rediscovered himself and the joy of life through intentional medicine work. This period of self-transformation led to a deeper understanding of life’s potential and inspired him to create a community where others could embark on similar journeys of discovery. At Vikara Center, Brian provides support to ensure the safety and well-being of each participant, grounding the experience with empathy, authenticity, and his own lived experiences.

Brian’s journey reflects the everyday individual who has undergone deep personal transformation through medicine work. His presence serves as a reminder that this path of healing and growth is accessible and transformative for all. Together with Josie, who brings professional expertise, they offer a balanced environment that merges expert guidance with practical wisdom.