Alison Nikkel M.Ed.
Welcome! I am a life-long student and teacher. I claim both Colorado and Kansas as home and they each play a significant part in my story. Story is what brought Renewed Narratives to life. I love hearing the stories that have shaped people, understanding why we do the things we do and partnering with people who are committed to growth!
After growing up in Colorado, I moved to Kansas to pursue a degree in Elementary Education. In the middle of my 5 years teaching 1st grade, I went back to school to receive a Master of Education in Neuroscience and Trauma. These studies shaped the way I see myself and others around me: for better or worse, we are byproducts of the stories we’ve lived.
But there is good news! The ever-unfolding world of neuroscience has revealed the “plastic” nature of our brains, that is, the capacity to change. Old for new. We don’t have to stay stuck in the thought and behavior patterns that no longer serve us. I desire to help people understand the way they’re wired without judgment, and then propel them into living a renewed narrative through applied brain science. I’m glad to be on this journey with you.
The Beginning of Renewed Narratives
These trainings were developed during Alison’s Masters program as a key element of her research in mindfulness. She desired to educate adults on how their brains (and therefore thoughts and behaviors) have been shaped by their life experiences while providing practical strategies to recognize and rewire certain patterns that are no longer serving them. In her own life, she saw this new understanding lead to stress reduction, healthier relationships and a greater sense of efficacy at work.
In reading the feedback from a dozen educators who took her initial training, she realized not only the gravity of the work she was setting out to do, but also the undeniable impact of healing and growing in community. Since graduating, these courses have been refined with new content and adapted to various settings including speaking at the annual KSDE Great Ideas in Education Conference, training the Harvey County Drug Court, working with local non-profits and equipping a group of local leaders in the Hesston community.
Read recent publications from Alison.