Esther Tishman

Today we are marching for change with Esther Freinkel Tishman, MA, PhD, BCC, a mother, daughter, sister, and an award-winning teacher, author, therapist, and interfaith board-certified chaplain whose work bridges mindfulness, psychology, and spiritual care. She has supported individuals, families, and healthcare professionals through life's most challenging moments, including serving a leadership role as COVID and critical care chaplain during the pandemic.

A university educator for more than twenty-five years, Esther has designed innovative programs that foster intellectual, emotional, and spiritual well-being. She holds a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling as well as humanities degrees from Harvard University and the University of California, Berkeley.

In 2025, Esther founded Liberty Walks, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering connection and community across our nation’s divides. Its inaugural initiative was a 2,800-mile pilgrimage from Eugene, Oregon, to the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C: an act of faith in ‘We the People.'

Esther offers retreats, classes, and counseling through her Orange Door Studio in Eugene, Oregon, and serves as Senior Teacher at Buddha Eye Zen Community Temple. She lives in Oregon with her husband and their two dogs. 

Listen to Esther’s inspiring story.