Dr. Deilen Michelle Villegas, Ph.D., BCHHP, BCETS— is a globally recognized triple board-certified holistic health practitioner and the visionary Founder/CEO of The Shamanic Goddess, LLC. With a double doctorate and a steadfast commitment to holistic healing, she specializes in Trauma Recovery, Behavioral Health, Mindset Transformation, and Somatic Healing.
In her own words, “My multifaceted expertise allows me to guide individuals on a transformative journey toward holistic well-being. As a Board Certified Holistic Health & Wellness Practitioner and Holistic Life Coach, my mission is to empower others to achieve optimal health and wellness through personalized, transformative approaches.”
What were your initial years of growing up like? Tell us about your life before starting your corporate journey/venture/initiative.
As an Afro-Latina woman, I’ve navigated firsthand the profound impact of limited access to proper medical and mental health care—a struggle all too common among marginalized groups. In the midst of an environment saturated with trauma and adversities, I intimately understand the stirring effects on the Mind, Body, and Spirit, hindering individuals from realizing the lives they truly deserve.
Growing up in a low-income family reliant on government aid and limited health insurance, I personally experienced the consequences of subpar care and insufficient nutritional support, significantly impacting my overall well-being. My journey led me to depend solely on conventional medicine to manage chronic PTSD, depression, and generalized anxiety disorder. However, as my symptoms worsened, a transformative shift occurred when I embraced Holistic Complementary and Alternative medicine in my wellness plan. Through this holistic approach, I not only found relief but achieved complete recovery from my diagnosis without resorting to substances or medications.
Having lived through the challenges of the conventional medical system from both a patient and worker perspective, I felt compelled to go beyond being a bystander. My personal experiences motivated me to become part of the solution, driving me to further my education. I aspired to be a provider who not only sought the best for patients and clients but was also committed to giving them a voice in their healing and wellness journey.
Every industry that is now a large-scale, top-notch business once started as a small idea in the minds of entrepreneurs. What was that idea or motivation that made you start your business /initiative? What motivated you within to say YES, go for it!”
The genesis of my business and initiative can be traced back to a deeply personal experience—an incident where I was misdiagnosed with an inaccurate health condition, an oversight that nearly cost me my life. This pivotal moment ignited a burning desire within me to be an advocate for others, to empower them with the tools to find their voice and champion their well-being.
Saying “YES” to embarking on this journey was fueled by a profound motivation to teach individuals how to navigate their traumas, overcome obstacles, and endure hardships. I envisioned guiding them on a transformative path, showing them how to reclaim their power and pursue the lives they truly deserved, even if life hadn’t unfolded as they initially wished. Becoming a Holistic Health Practitioner and Holistic Life Coach was my resolute response to this calling. I wanted to be more than just a practitioner—I aimed to be a guiding force for individuals, helping them unearth their strengths and empowering them to move forward with unwavering power. My motivation was rooted in the belief that everyone has the capacity to take charge of their life narrative and create a future aligned with their deepest aspirations.
Tell us something about your initiative or current role. What is it about, and what impact are you trying to make?
In my current role, I transcend the traditional boundaries of a practitioner; I position myself as an ally in the profound exploration of interconnected realms—mind, body, and spirit. Holistic well-being, in my perspective, is not a one-size-fits-all journey; rather, it’s a deeply personal and transformative exploration. My work is a dedicated dive into the intricate connections that bind us—mind, body, and spirit. I see myself as an empowering catalyst, fostering transformational change with a specific focus on making a positive impact in BIPOC and marginalized communities. My mission is clear: to be a force for positive change, uplifting and empowering individuals within these communities to embark on their unique journeys of holistic well-being.
Your journey and your vision are very inspiring, but are there any achievements or accomplishments you would like to mention?
I’ve transformed my life experiences, traumas, and hardships into triumphs, evolving from a victim of trauma to a globally recognized Trauma Expert. My mission is to help individuals worldwide overcome adversity, discover their inner strengths, and view obstacles as opportunities for growth. Coming from a complicated upbringing, I defy statistics—I am the exception, not the rule. According to statistical predictions, my life path and outcome were not supposed to lead to what they are today. Yet, I stand as a Double Doctorate and Triple-Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, making a positive impact on a global scale. My journey defies expectations, illustrating the power of resilience and transformation.
Would you like to share with our young budding women entrepreneurs the change you would like to see in the world if given an opportunity?
To the young and aspiring women entrepreneurs, I believe the change we need in the world starts with amplifying our voices and sharing our stories. It’s crucial for women to be welcomed into spaces where our talents can make a difference. I envision a world with more women in leadership positions, actively contributing to effective changes that enhance the quality of life for women globally. We must embrace qualities of confidence, courage, bravery, and fierceness. It’s time to shift our mindset from viewing each other as competitors to recognizing the strength in collaboration. By working together, we can be an unstoppable force, united in a mission to improve the quality of life for all. Let’s stand as peers and partners, knowing that a woman on a mission is unstoppable and can truly make a lasting impact.
Women are a growing force in the workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. There are cracks in glass ceilings everywhere, with many women breaking through to carve out a space right at the top of the pyramid. What are your thoughts about women leadership today?
The rise of women in leadership is a powerful and transformative force, reshaping workplaces globally. Witnessing women stand shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts is not just a trend; it’s a paradigm shift. The cracks in glass ceilings are emblematic of the relentless determination and resilience displayed by countless women breaking through to claim their well-deserved space at the top of the pyramid. In today’s landscape, women’s leadership brings diversity of thought, innovative perspectives, and a unique approach to problem-solving. It’s not just about equal representation; it’s about recognizing the immense value that women leaders bring to the table.
Women leadership is characterized by empathy, collaboration, and a holistic view of success. The evolving narrative emphasizes meritocracy over gender, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable professional world. As these leaders ascend to leadership positions, they are not just shattering glass ceilings; they are opening doors for future generations of women to follow suit. It’s an exciting era where women are not only navigating the corporate landscape but also actively shaping it. The collective impact of women in leadership is not just a triumph for gender equality; it’s a victory for progress, innovation, and a more balanced and harmonious workplace. The future of leadership is undoubtedly inclusive, diverse, and led by the strength, wisdom, and resilience of women.
What would you want to say to our young women leaders/audience reading this?
To the young women leaders and audience reading this, I want to impart a message of empowerment and encouragement. Your journey is unique, and your potential is boundless. Embrace the authenticity of your voice, perspectives, and ambitions. In your pursuit of leadership, be unapologetically yourself. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Believe in your capabilities and the positive impact you can make. Remember that your presence and contributions are invaluable, bringing diversity and strength to every space you enter. Cultivate a supportive network of mentors and peers who uplift and inspire you. Collaborate, celebrate each other’s successes, and lift each other higher. Break free from the notion of competition and instead view your fellow women leaders as allies on a shared mission for progress. Never underestimate the power of continuous learning. Seek knowledge, refine your skills, and stay resilient in the face of adversity. Your ability to adapt, innovate, and persevere will be your greatest assets.
Most importantly, trust in your ability to lead with compassion, empathy, and authenticity. The world needs your unique perspective, and your leadership has the potential to create positive ripples of change. As you navigate your path, remember that you are not alone—many have walked this journey before and stand ready to support you. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your victories, and know that your journey as a young woman leader is shaping the future. You have the strength to overcome, the wisdom to lead, and the capacity to make a lasting impact. The world awaits the transformative leadership only you can provide.
