CHANI GETTER grew up in an ultra-orthodox-Hasidic Jewish home in Rockland County, NY, and at 18, with barely a high school diploma, Chani entered an arranged marriage. 5 years and 3 children later, Chani left Chani's husband and as a single parent, began a journey of self-discovery. While Chani's parents initially supported the decision to leave the marriage, Chani’s decision to get a driver’s license and buy a car was a deal breaker which led the family to disown Chani and Chani's children. While it may have seemed that Chani was truly alone, Chani never felt alone.
Chani sought to expand education and career opportunities by attending Empire State College in New City, NY. Chani did this while working full time and raising the children.
After a few stops and starts, Chani graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development in 2006. Chani also completed a program called “Coaching for Transformation” receiving certification as a life coach from the New York Open Center in 2006.
Chani’s deep spirituality called Chani to explore the many forms and expressions of the Divine. In 2009, while still a single parent, Chani was ordained as an Interfaith Minister through One Spirit Interfaith Seminary.
Today, Chani is a proud, out gay parent, a spiritual leader and teacher, an established Motivational Speaker, a Certified Holistic Life Coach, a Spiritual counselor, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Ritual Creator. Chani has found a way to combine personal development, spiritual learning and courageous risk-taking that has been Chani's experience in life to direct retreats, create workshops and talks that are empowering and inspiring to all people.
From 2007-2020, Chani facilitated a monthly support group for LGBTQIA women in NYC. This groups provided a community of trust and mutual aid for divers group of individuals with a wide variety of experiences, ages, and identities . As part of Chani's work with the LGBTQIA community Chani directed and lead annual weekend retreat that includes community building programs and workshops.
Chani received an interfaith minister degree in 2009. Chani creates unique ceremonies and rituals for all. Chani crafts ceremonies for each individual and/or couple that express the uniqueness of who they are and how they want to be seen in the world.
In 2013 Chani joined the staff of Footsteps, an organization that helps individuals leaving ultra-orthodox Judaism. in 2022 Chani shifted to a consultant and is now the Scholar in Residence at Footsteps. As part of Chani's role at Footsteps, Chani trains staff in different organizations that provide resources for Footsteps members, such as family law attorneys, social workers and guidance counselors in colleges. Chani has testified as an expert witness in some of these cases.
In 2020, Chani graduated with a Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University and Chani received their clinical license in 2023.
Chani is trained in IFS (Internal Family Systems) EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) and is a certified grief counselor.
Chani's influence is far-reaching, touching individuals and professionals in North America and Europe. In addition to Chani's speaking engagements, Chani has been featured in two documentary films, and a PBS special to name just a few.
Chani works with people from all walks of life. Chani's loving, non-judgmental approach provides a safe place for all to connect with their authentic selves and deepest yearnings to find the clarity, inner peace and inspiration they desire.
