presented by U-M CREATIVITY and CONSCIOUSNESS STUDIES

The Division of Perceptual Studies (DOPS) at the University of Virginia has conducted research for over 50 years with a focus on empirical investigation of phenomena that challenge currently accepted models of the nature of mind and consciousness and their interaction with the physical world. This presentation will provide an introduction to the Division of Perceptual Studies and its mission and rich research tradition. Seminal among DOPS research areas has been investigation of consciousness that survives bodily death, either through near death experiences, anomalous communication with deceased family members, and/or children whose claims to recall past lives are accompanied by large volumes of empirical support. This talk will provide an overview of this work and also broach recent research on the impact of altered states of consciousness upon extraordinary human experiences and abilities, including compassion, connection, and wellbeing. Finally, we will discuss altered states of consciousness and the potential positive impacts upon individuals, communities, and the world.

Jennifer “Kim” Penberthy, Ph.D., ABPP is the Chester F. Carlson Professor of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, Division of Perceptual Studies, at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. Kim is a board certified clinical psychologist and conducts research, teaches, and provides clinical care at UVA in psychiatry and the cancer center. She obtained her undergraduate and masters degree in psychology from Wake Forest University, her PhD in Clinical Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University, and her Fellowship at the University of Virginia. Her research interests focus on the mind-body relationship and exploring human consciousness as well as extraordinary human experiences, including the impact of such on human abilities and wellness. She is a founding member of the UVA Contemplative Sciences Center and a member of the UVAAcademy of Distinguished Educators, the Wisdom & Wellbeing Program, the Leadership in Academic Matters Program, and is a Fellow of Humanism in Medicine at the University of Virginia. She is involved on an international level conducting research and consulting with the Center for Consciousness Research and the Scientific & Medical Network as well as the IANDS Research Network. Dr. Penberthy is interested in the impact of extraordinary human experiences such as NDEs and ADCs as well as intentionally pursued altered states of consciousness, such as from meditation or psychedelics. She is also dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion and exploring and honoring contemplative practices from indigenous and native cultures. She is president-elect of the Society of Clinical Psychology, the former chair of the American Psychological Association Society of Clinical Psychology Diversity Committee and is a fellow in the APA Leadership Institute for Women in Psychology. She has published extensively on psychotherapy and mindfulness, including 4 books, and scores of manuscripts and book chapters, and lectures internationally regarding her research. Her most recent book is co-authored with her daughter, Morgan, and is called “Living Mindfully Across the Lifespan: An Intergenerational Guide.”


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