Sensual Thriving: Health, Sex, and the Hard Questions
2024-02-28 18:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Wrong Way River Lodge
Discussing sex and sensuality can be awkward. Do you have questions that are too uncomfortable to ask? Or perhaps you simply haven’t had the forum to explore these topics? Our expert panel is here to help! They will approach these topics with a fun and informative edge. In the upcoming panel discussion, they will address the following:

Your anonymously submitted questions
Sexuality during chronic illness
How to nurture your sexuality and sensuality
Sexual health anatomy
Tips and strategies for enhancing pleasure and intimacy

Discover the key to enhancing your sensuality and health. Submit your questions, get some answers, and gain the knowledge you've been seeking!
This panel discussion will take place on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, from 6:00-7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. There is no cost for attending in person; however, space will be limited. Please RSVP to attend in person, and submit questions, via this link! This event will be broadcast virtually for free via our Facebook and YouTube platforms! It is not necessary to RSVP if you plan to join virtually.
Our panel of experts:

With over a decade of expertise in men's pelvic and sexual health, Dr. Susie Gronski is a Licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner, AASECT Certified Sexuality Counselor and Educator, and owner of a multidisciplinary men’s pelvic health clinic in Asheville, NC

Faith Laux is a Somatic Sex, Love, and Relationship coach based in Asheville, NC. She helps her clients connect deeply to the eros, wisdom, and enchantment of their bodies. In May of 2022, she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. Since then, she has been adding pleasure as a healing modality to help her and her clients thrive and enjoy life. Faith is here to normalize the conversation around sexuality, aging, illness, and desire.

Spring Community Health Challenge
2024-04-15 - 2024-05-15
Spring forward with a boost to your health and well-being!
On April 15th, Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville will begin our Spring Community Health Challenge. We will host the Challenge on our new Community Page and virtual platform: Integrative Academy*!
Designed by our team and facilitated by our health coach, Ariana Figueroa, the Spring Community Health Challenge will offer guidance through daily emails and accountability through weekly virtual check-ins. Participants can connect to each other while receiving support with making changes in movement, nourishment, stress management, and connection. *Those who register will receive a welcome email the week before the Health Challenge begins, with a prompt to create your Integrative Academy account.
The Health Challenge is open to any Integrative Life or Employee Health Plan Member, free of charge. To register, please follow this link—deadline is April 15, 2024.

Navigating the Mystery and Misunderstandings of Menopause: Evidence-based Approaches for Midlife and Beyond
2024-05-29 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Feeling bewildered by perimenopause’s twists and turns? Fed up with menopausal woes for yourself or your loved ones? Buckle up for an enlightening panel discussion where we’ll explore:

The initial symptoms that are often overlooked or under-discussed

Insights into the physiological changes occurring during this transition

How medical providers are changing their approach to menopause care

How medical providers are reevaluating the Women’s Health Initiative study

Actional strategies for managing perimenopause and menopause symptoms through exercise, nutrition, sleep, supplements, and prescription options.

Join us to empower yourself with knowledge and take control of your menopausal journey!
This panel discussion will occur on May 29, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. The event is open to Integrative Family Medicine members, and attending is free. Please RSVP via this link to attend in person! This event will also be broadcast via our YouTube and Facebook platforms. It is not necessary to RSVP for the virtual broadcast.
Our panelists:
Liz Frost, PA-C and Clinic Director of Integrative Medicine of Asheville
Liz has been practicing at Integrative Family Medicine as a PA since August 2015. She is particularly interested in women’s health, coordination-of-care for patients with outside specialists, and enjoys meaningful and unique relationships with all her patients.
Brian Lewis, MD, MPH, Medical Director, and Co-Founder of Integrative Medicine of Asheville
With over 20 years of experience in Integrative Medicine, Brian enjoys supporting clients with a holistic approach to their health goals. He draws from lifestyle, herbal, mind-body, and conventional Western medical approaches. He is the co-founder and medical director of Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville.

Community Event: French Broad River Cleanup
2024-07-20 10:00 - 14:00
Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville will be partnering with Asheville GreenWorks for a private French Broad River cleanup! We will be cleaning from Craven St. Bridge to Silver-Line Park in Woodfin. Please utilize parkingalong Craven St. if lot is full.
Asheville GreenWorks will supply kayaks and canoes, along with tools, and safetygear for the trip. Participants will be in the water for this river cleanup, so pleasecome equipped with swimwear, quick-dry shorts, and tops. River sandals,Chacos, water socks, or old sneakers are recommended; bare feet, flip-flops, orslides are prohibited. We suggest participants be aged 13 or older. Remember tobring a towel for the journey home. No prior paddling experience is necessary forthis cleanup event. We're excited to join you in the water!
Please register for the river cleanup by visiting:
https://ashevillegreenworks.vomo.org/opportunity/nbc-hwc-river-cleanup.

Masculinity in the Modern Era
2024-08-29 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Masculinity in the Modern Era: Mental Health, Purpose, and Meaning
Why are so many men dying of suicide?
What does it mean to be a man these days?
The changes of modernity are impacting our male children and young men. Join us for a moderated conversation exploring the unique challenges of different age groups. This event aims to shift the conversation on male mental health with new perspectives, insights, and resources. We will explore ways to foster healthy masculinity while discovering purpose and meaning. Join us on August 29th in person or online for this transformative discussion, which will enhance awareness and support for male mental health.
This panel discussion will occur on August 29, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. Ariana Figueroa, NBC-HWC, will facilitate the conversation. The event is open to Integrative Family Medicine members, and attending is free. Please RSVP via this link to attend in person! This event will also be broadcast via our YouTube and Facebook pages. It is not necessary to RSVP for the virtual broadcast.
Speakers:
Derek Rinaldo MA, LCMHC
Derek is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a private practice in Asheville, North Carolina. For the past 35 years, in various roles, he has primarily worked with men and boys struggling with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. Derek is trained and uses somatic modalities such as Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, breathwork, and somatic mindfulness, sometimes called… yoga. Locally and internationally, he also practices and trains other therapists in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy using Ketamine and psychedelic safety and integration. He is a graduate of programs from the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies/Lykos, and the California Institute of Integral Studies. Derek has led men’s retreats and therapeutic men’s groups, with the ultimate focus on reestablishing actionable, grounded connection with one’s masculine and feminine physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Derek has lived in Asheville since 2002, now with his teen son and his life partner.
Justin D’Avella, PsyD
Justin is a Licensed Psychologist in private practice. He works with individuals and couples locally in Asheville and across California. In addition to his practice, he provides clinical consultation and training to fellow clinicians and advises entrepreneurs and organizations in the mental health and wellness space. Justin is passionate about supporting men in discovering greater clarity, a deeper sense of aliveness, and unlocking a more enriching experience of themselves, their relationships, and their purpose. For more information, visit: drjustindavella.com.
Facilitator:
Ariana Figueroa, NBC-HWC
Ariana Figueroa is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach trained by Duke Integrative Medicine. She works to help patients bridge the gap between personal goals, expert medical recommendations, and the ability to incorporate both into their daily lives. Ariana has previously facilitated panel discussions for Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville. She is passionate about moderating conversations that yield helpful insights, resources, and information.

Fall Community Health Challenge
2024-09-09 - 2024-10-09
Get ready to transform your health this fall with Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville’s Community Health Challenge, kicking off September 9th!
This challenge, facilitated by expert health coach Ariana Figueroa, NBC-HWC, will guide you through habit changes in movement, nutrition, stress management, and connection. Expect inspiring daily emails, in-person and virtual meet-ups, and a fun virtual cook-a-long.
Join a supportive community focused on wellness at no cost for Integrative Life or Employee Health Plan Members.
Don’t miss out—register by August 30, 2024, and get ready to elevate your health journey! Register by clicking on this link.

Resilience, Stress Management, & Connection: Group Health Coaching Series
2024-10-22 18:00 - 19:00
Things are hard right now.
In the midst of grief, destruction, disruption, and discomfort, we invite you to join our Health Coach, Ariana Figueroa, for a virtual health coaching group. Each session will include opportunities to connect, practice a stress-relief or mindfulness exercise, and learn simple practices to help manage stress in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. This group aims to foster community and connection while equipping you with tools to help navigate the everyday challenges we are all experiencing right now.
This group will be offered during October and November on Tuesdays, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm and Thursdays, from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm via Zoom. Please note that this will not be a group therapy session. As a Health Coach, Ariana utilizes positive psychology, motivational interviewing, and the neuroscience of behavior change to help patients get clarity about where they are, articulate actions for how they want to make change, set goals, plus learn about and practice nourishing lifestyle habits. If you are in need of therapy, please speak with your medical provider for a referral. The North Carolina Mental Health Emergency and Disaster Responders have organized links to mental health resources, including therapists who are offering pro bono services to survivors of Hurricane Helene: https://linktr.ee/mentalhealther.
Offered free of charge, and only to Integrative Life and Employee Health Plan Members, you can sign up to participate by emailing ariana@integrativeasheville.org.

The Body After a Natural Disaster: Tending & Befriending our Trauma Responses
2024-12-05 18:00 - 19:00 | Zoom
Our region has been impacted by a major disaster, understandably leaving us in states of shock, freeze or numbness, fright, anger, and overwhelm. These responses are normal given the impact and aftermath of Hurricane Helene: you are not alone in these experiences.
Join us for an insightful event that explores how stress, trauma, and body awareness are interconnected in disaster recovery. We’ll dive into how the body responds to stress after a traumatic event like a hurricane. Drawing upon the work of Peter Levine, Bessel van der Kolk and somatic instinctual wisdom, we’ll uncover practical tools for managing traumatic experiences to restore balance. Learn to recognize your body’s distress signals, understand the mental-emotional impacts of disaster trauma, and discover strategies for reclaiming your peace and well-being.
This virtual event will occur via Zoom on December 5, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm. The event is free and open to everyone. Please RSVP via this link, if you would like to join via Zoom. You can also watch the event live on our YouTube page.

Patti Elledge is a trauma healing specialist who has served as a therapist and somatic mentor for thousands of individuals over the past 25+ years. Prior to that, she worked as a child development specialist serving infants, children, and families. Patti trained directly with Somatic Experiencing faculty Peter Levine, Raja Selvam, and Kathy Kain and assisted more than 40 SE trainings. Patti also served as faculty for Dr. Diane Poole Heller’s groundbreaking attachment training, DARe, for 9 years and then in 2020 launched her own 3-month online Somatic Mentoring. She continues to teach, most recently participating in a weeklong event at Blue Spirit Costa Rica with Bessel van der Kolk and Dick Schwartz. Patti weaves cutting-edge therapeutic strategies from the fields of somatic experiencing, attachment, interpersonal neurobiology, parts work, relational inquiry practices, deep ecology, and the felt sense of embodiment. By utilizing attunement, presence, and the blending of these techniques, over-coupled survival energies (fight-flight-freeze) that appear so seemingly intractable with the essence of loving/bonding and attaching, can be shifted and healed. By accessing all parts of our nervous system and moving out of dysregulated and early fear-based patterns we can embrace who we truly are meant to be and embody our True Essence in these amazing, evolving times.

Ariana Figueroa is a board-certified Health and Wellness Coach trained at Duke Integrative Medicine. As a Health Coach and Facilitator, she is dedicated to fostering a space where insight and meaningful change can flourish. Curiosity, cultural humility, and compassion are core values in how Ariana approaches her work. She has a background in motivational interviewing, positive psychology, herbalism studies, group coaching, individual coaching, and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Work at Western Carolina University.

Unlock a Fresh Start: Tea Tasting & Intention Setting Ceremony
2025-01-11 10:00 - 11:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Join us for a contemplative tea ceremony to reflect on the past and prepare for the future. We will explore a variety of teas from around the world while journaling about the events of the past year and setting intentions for the new year. Enjoy the warmth of tea and community as we celebrate renewal in the dark of Winter.
This ceremony will occur on Saturday, January 11, 2025, from 10:00 AM–11:00 AM at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. The event is only open to Integrative Family Medicine members, and there is no cost for attending. Space is limited to 15 participants. Please RSVP via this link. This event will not be recorded.
Brian Lewis, MD, MPH, Medical Director and Co-Founder of Integrative Medicine of Asheville
With over 20 years of experience in Integrative Medicine, Brian enjoys supporting clients with a holistic approach to their health goals. He draws from lifestyle, herbal, mind-body, and conventional Western medical approaches. He is the co-founder and medical director of Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville. Brian has a deep love for the Appalachian Mountains and enjoys time in nature through hiking, gardening, biking, land restoration, and camping. He currently lives in West Asheville on a small urban homestead. He is inspired to continue developing Integrative Family Medicine with Dr. Krisel and the clinic team. He enjoys partnering with individuals and communities to create sustainable approaches for preventing disease and cultivating health. He is passionate about translating the research from Lifestyle Medicine into clinical practice in ways that are accessible and personalized to the needs of his patients. You can read more about Brian, and his work, in his bio.

Stress: Triggers, Tools, and Healing Transformation
2025-03-31 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Feel like a walking stress ball? You’re not alone! Have you ever wondered if your stress is trying to send you a message? Join us for a panel discussion that unpacks the connections between stress, body awareness, and healing.
Drawing on the wisdom of Peter Levine, Bessel van der Kolk, and Gabor Maté, we’ll discuss how to tune in to your body’s distress signals. Learn how mental-emotional stress and past traumas manifest physically and discover practical tools for managing them. Explore how these dynamics shape your thoughts and actions. Join us to understand and transform stress through a holistic approach!
This panel discussion will occur on March 31, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. Ariana Figueroa, NBC-HWC, will facilitate the conversation. The event is free and open to Integrative Life Members and the public. Please RSVP via this link to attend in person! This event will also be broadcast via our YouTube and Facebook pages. It is not necessary to RSVP for the virtual broadcast.
Patti Elledge is a trauma healing specialist who has served as a therapist and somatic mentor for thousands of individuals over the past 25+ years, and before that as a child development specialist serving infants, children and families. She trained directly with Drs Peter Levine, Raja Selvam, and Steve Hoskinson in Somatic Experiencing and assisted in more than 40 SE training sessions. Patti also served as faculty for Dr Diane Poole Heller’s groundbreaking attachment training, DARe, for 9 years, and then, in 2020, she launched her own 3-month online Somatic Mentoring. She continues to teach, most recently participating in a weeklong event at Blue Spirit Costa Rica with Bessel van der Kolk and Dick Schwartz. Patti weaves cutting edge therapeutic strategies from somatic experiencing, attachment, interpersonal neurobiology, parts work, relational inquiry practices, deep ecology and the felt sense of embodiment. By utilizing attunement, presence and the blending of these techniques, over-coupled survival energies (fight-flight-freeze) that appear so seemingly intractable with the essence of loving/bonding and attaching, can be shifted and healed. By accessing all parts of our nervous system and moving out of dysregulated and early fear-based patterns we can embrace who we are meant to be and embody our True Essence in these fantastic, evolving times.
Tricia Renshaw, a Delaware native born and raised in Newark, has lived along the east coast. After earning her BS in Dance from Skidmore College in 2008, she pursued her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of North Florida. Following her 2011 graduation, she relocated to Western North Carolina’s mountains, where she has worked across various healthcare settings from acute care to outpatient clinics. Her expertise grew through Clinical Neuromuscular and Structural Bodywork certifications, dry needling, and as a Level 1 NeuFit Practitioner. In 2020, she completed her Level 2 Emotional Intelligence Mastery from Satori Prime, incorporating subtle energy work for holistic patient care. Beyond her clinical practice, Renshaw is a professor at Western Carolina University and Assistant Artistic Director at the Asheville Ballet. In these roles, she teaches, choreographs, and performs regularly. She maintains an active lifestyle outside of work, enjoying hiking, yoga, and photography. She cherishes time with her partner Andrew and family, while pursuing her interests in personal growth and wellness. Her diverse background in healthcare and dance allows her to bring a unique perspective to her work with patients and students.

Ariana Figueroa is a board-certified health and wellness coach with seven years of experience in coaching and facilitation. As a Coach and Facilitator, Ariana fosters a space where insight and meaningful change can flourish. She is pursuing a Master’s in Social Work at Western Carolina University. In her free time, Ariana loves diving into neuroscience, experimenting with new recipes, nurturing her garden, and staying active. You might find her kicking around a soccer ball with her son, hiking and gardening as a family, or enjoying a quiet moment with her knitting needles.

"Why Can't I Sleep? Biology, Problems, and Practical Solutions"
2025-05-22 18:00 - 19:00
If sleep is so important, why is it so hard to get?
We constantly hear about the importance of good sleep—but for many of us, it’s just not as easy as going to bed at the same time each night in a quiet, dark room. In this class, we’ll explore the biology of sleep, common sleep challenges, and practical solutions to overcome them. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of what affects your sleep and simple steps you can take tonight to start sleeping better.
This community class will take place on May 22 from 6:00 to 7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. The event is free and open to Integrative Life Members and the public. Please RSVP via this link to attend in person! This event will also be broadcast via our YouTube page. It is not necessary to RSVP for the virtual broadcast.
Erin Shadle, LCSW, fell in love with CBT for insomnia when she was introduced to it in 2015. Since then, she has dedicated her career to treating sleep disorders through behavioral means. She launched Behavioral Sleep Solutions in 2018. Erin has treated hundreds of clients and mentored many therapists over the past decade. In addition to her career, Erin loves exploring the mountains around her home in Asheville with her husband and three sons.

"Optimizing Male Hormonal Health"
2025-06-19 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Guys— we know you’ve been talking to your buddies and listening to the podcasts. We’re here to provide clarity and practical steps to optimize your hormones in every decade.
Join us for a no-pressure, judgment-free conversation on real, actionable men’s health.
We’ll explain how it all fits together and practical steps you can implement to optimize health and performance.
Show up in person for an active discussion, or watch our live broadcast on Youtube.
This panel discussion will occur on June 19, from 6:00 - 7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. Please RSVP via this link to attend in person! It is not necessary to RSVP for the virtual broadcast.

Brian Lewis, MD, MPH, Medical Director and Co-Founder of Integrative Medicine of Asheville
With over 20 years of experience in Integrative Medicine, Brian enjoys supporting clients with a holistic approach to their health goals. He draws from lifestyle, herbal, mind-body, and conventional Western medical approaches. He is the co-founder and medical director of Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville.

Tom Everts, PA-C, IFMCP
Tom has extensive experience using integrative and lifestyle medicine to manage both acute and chronic conditions with a wide range of patients. He has developed integrative medicine programs for individuals and groups and is known for his patient-focused, team-based approach. He is also director of education at Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville.

Ariana Figueroa, Facilitator
Ariana Figueroa is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach trained by Duke Integrative Medicine. She works to help patients bridge the gap between personal goals, expert medical recommendations, and the ability to incorporate both into their daily lives. Ariana has previously facilitated panel discussions for Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville. She is passionate about moderating conversations that yield helpful insights, resources, and information.

Men’s Health: Facts, Myths & Solutions
2025-06-19 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Guys—when’s the last time you went to the doctor (and not just because someone made you)? If your answer is: “What’s a primary care provider?” — this event is for you.
Join us for a no-pressure, judgment-free conversation on real men’s health—covering everything from:

Nutrition & Sleep
Exercise that works (without needing a gym obsession)
Hormone Health – including non-testosterone & TRT approaches
What’s actually normal as you age (and what’s not)

We’ll take a balanced look at the risks and benefits of testosterone therapy and explore tools to improve energy, mood, and motivation—whether you’re into prevention or feeling like your get-up-and-go got up and left.
Let’s break the stereotype—starting with showing up.
This panel discussion will take place on June 19 from 6:00 to 7:00 pm at Wrong Way River Lodge. The event is open to Integrative Family Medicine members, and attending is free. Please RSVP via this link to attend in person! This event will also be broadcast via our YouTube and Facebook platforms. It is not necessary to RSVP for the virtual broadcast.

Brian Lewis, MD, MPH, Medical Director and Co-Founder of Integrative Medicine of Asheville
With over 20 years of experience in Integrative Medicine, Brian enjoys supporting clients with a holistic approach to their health goals. He draws from lifestyle, herbal, mind-body, and conventional Western medical approaches. He is the co-founder and medical director of Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville.

Tom Everts, PA-C, IFMCP, has extensive experience using integrative and lifestyle medicine to manage both acute and chronic conditions with a wide range of patients. He has developed integrative medicine programs for individuals and groups and is known for his patient-focused, team-based approach. He is also director of education at Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville.

Ariana Figueroa, NBC-HWC, is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach trained by Duke Integrative Medicine. She helps patients bridge the gap between personal goals and expert medical recommendations and supports them in incorporating both into their daily lives. Ariana has previously facilitated panel discussions for Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville. She is passionate about moderating conversations that yield helpful insights, resources, and information.

"Beyond Diets: An Intuitive Eating Workshop"
2025-07-22 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Tired of Diets That Don’t Stick?
If you’ve ever felt stuck in the diet cycle—counting, restricting, starting over—this is for you.
Join Registered Dietitian Simone Wilson for a no-pressure, real-talk workshop on Intuitive Eating—where we’ll cover:

The 10 core principles to break free from dieting
How to actually trust your body (yep, it’s possible)
Tips to support long-term goals like gut health and weight management—without obsession

We’ll keep it relaxed with an informal discussion and a mini mindful eating exercise to show you how this works in real life.
Come curious. Come as you are.

This panel discussion will occur on July 22, from 6:00 - 7:00 pm at Wrong Way River Lodge. The event is open to Integrative Family Medicine members, and attending is free. Please RSVP via this link to attend in person! This event will also be broadcast live via our YouTube page. It is not necessary to RSVP for the virtual broadcast.
Simone Wilson, MS, RD
Simone is a functional Registered Dietitian who earned her master’s degree in clinical nutrition at NYU and completed training at Mount Sinai Medical Center. She is certified in Plant-Based Nutrition (eCornell) and has completed Monash University’s Low FODMAP training, allowing her to provide unique support to those facing GI concerns. Simone is passionate about providing inclusive, judgement-free, and compassionate care to adults seeking help with gut disorders, women's health, & sustainable weight management. Her approach to nutrition counseling combines evidence-based science with an intuitive eating framework to help heal the gut and free clients from unsustainable dieting and restriction.

Stay Active, Stay Strong: Balance and Strength for Life
2025-10-15 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Tired of stairs feeling like Everest? If you’ve ever wobbled putting on socks, avoided the stepladder, or realized your idea of “balance training” is not spilling your coffee while walking—this class is for you. Join us for a fun, judgment-free session focused on building real-world strength and balance—the kind that actually matters in daily life. We’ll cover:

Why strength training isn’t just for gym bros (spoiler: it’s for everyone)
Balance exercises that don’t require circus skills
Simple movements to help you feel steadier, stronger, and more confident
How to keep your body working with you as you age—not against you

We’ll keep it practical, accessible, and yes, even enjoyable. No spandex required. No “no pain, no gain” nonsense. Just straightforward techniques you can use right away. Come as you are. Leave feeling stronger. All fitness levels welcome. Modifications provided. Chairs available for seated or supported exercises.
This event is free and open to Integrative Family Medicine members. To attend in person, RSVP by visiting www.integrativeasheville.org/calendar. This event will also be broadcast via our YouTube page (it is not necessary to RSVP for the virtual broadcast).

Teens, Screens, and Drugs 3.0
2025-11-05 18:00 - 19:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Worried about your teen in 2025? You’re not alone. Today’s parents are navigating unprecedented challenges from AI Chatbots and deepfakes targeting teens to Fentanyl-laced drugs (even in counterfeit pills), and much more.
We’re bringing this conversation back after Hurricane Helene postponed our 2024 event. Join us for an updated, moderated panel discussion with [panelist names/credentials] as we explore:
✓ How AI and social media are reshaping teen mental health and identity
✓ The current drug landscape: what’s new, what’s deadly, and what parents often miss
✓ Brain science: why screens are so hard for teens (and adults!) to put down
✓ Practical strategies for having conversations that actually land
✓ Setting boundaries that work in real families, not just in parenting books
✓ Red flags to watch for and when to get help
This isn’t a lecture. It’s a real conversation for real parents dealing with real challenges in Asheville and beyond. Whether your teen is thriving or struggling, you’ll leave with concrete tools and the reassurance that you’re not navigating this alone.
This event will take place on November 5, from 6:00-7:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. There is no cost for attending; however, space will be limited. Please RSVP to attend in person via this link! This event will be broadcast virtually for free via our YouTube platform! It is not necessary to RSVP if you plan to join virtually.
More information about our panel:
For over 35 years, Beth Hockman, M.S. has devoted her life to helping young people discover their strength and confidence through wilderness and experiential education. She holds a B.S. in Social Psychology and a M.S. in Experiential Education from Minnesota State University. Her career includes 18 years with Outward Bound in both the U.S and Africa. In 2006, she co-founded Asheville TAASC, a nonprofit that blends outdoor leadership and service learning into life-changing experiences for youth. In 2016, inspired by her twin daughters, Beth co-launched Girls TAASC, which remains one of her greatest passions- guiding girls to step beyond the restrictive, toxic societal narratives placed on them and embrace their adventurous, authentic selves. As a former teacher and Academic Director, Beth created innovative experiential curricula that earned national accreditation. For the past 17 years, she has also been an independent Love and Logic facilitator, supporting families and educators with practical strategies for raising responsible, resilient young people. In addition, she is adjunct faculty for the Center for Creative Leadership, a founding board member of Fernleaf Community Charter School, a TEDx speaker, a former homeschool mom, and the owner of her own parent coaching business. Her greatest adventure, though, is parenting her twin daughters. When she isn’t teaching or speaking, you’ll find Beth exploring the mountains of Asheville with her family and their two rescue Border Collies.
Kriya Lendzion, LCMHC, LCAS, CPS has journeyed from her own years as a “hot mess” teen in high conflict with her parents to becoming one of the nation’s leading youth addiction and prevention specialists. She has been a school counselor, adolescent therapist, and drug educator for over three decades. As a parent coach, speaker, and author, Kriya empowers adults to be “teen whisperers” with the youth in their lives, to help “addiction-proof” them for an increasingly risky and addictive world. Fondly known as “The Drug Lady” in our community, she regularly conducts drug and addiction education at schools across Buncombe County and provides programming, consulting, and training across the country.
As a Health Coach and Facilitator, Ariana Figueroa, NBC-HWC is dedicated to fostering a space where insight and meaningful change can flourish. In her Health Coaching work at Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville, she utilizes positive psychology, motivational interviewing, and the neuroscience of behavior change. In her free time, Ariana is pursuing a Master’s in Social Work. In her free time, you might find her kicking around a soccer ball with her son Luke, hitting the trails with her husband Christopher, gardening as a family, or enjoying a quiet moment with her knitting needles.
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Unlock a Fresh Start: Tea Tasting & Intention Setting Ceremony
2026-01-10 10:00 - 12:00 | Wrong Way River Lodge
Join us for our third annual contemplative tea ceremony to reflect on the past and prepare for the future. We will explore a variety of teas from around the world while journaling about the events of the past year, and setting intentions for the new year. Enjoy the warmth of tea and community as we celebrate renewal in the dark of Winter.
This event will occur on Saturday, January 10, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 pm at Wrong Way’s River Lodge. The event is open only to Integrative Family Medicine members, and there is no cost to attend. Space is limited to 15 participants. Please RSVP via this link. This event will not be recorded.

Brian Lewis, MD, MPH, Medical Director and Co-Founder of Integrative Medicine of Asheville
With over 20 years of experience in Integrative Medicine, Brian enjoys supporting clients with a holistic approach to their health goals. He draws from lifestyle, herbal, mind-body, and conventional Western medical approaches. He is the co-founder and medical director of Integrative Family Medicine of Asheville.
