Zulma Y. Terrones, a prior behavioral health clinician and researcher-practictioner, is currently an entrepreneurand interdisciplinary leader with deep expertise in trauma-informed care, stress management, and mind-body connection. She trained at The University of Chicago (AB ’12) and the University of Cambridge (MPhil ’18) and brings over 15 years of international and domestic experience across clinical, therapeutic, research, and misssion-based organizational settings. Her work spans children, elders, BIPOC and immigrant communities, women, and families across urban, rural, and global contexts. From research and public health service to direct clinical care, NGO leadership, and now health tech entrepreneurship, she has been guided by one mission: to build sustainable systems of care that empower people and communities to thrive physically, mentally, and socially—living healthier, more connected, and purpose-driven lives. As the founder of Life Stages, she develops digital and hybrid tools that support individuals in managing stress, healing trauma, and strengthening mind-body resilience. This includes, Align—a personalized, nature-based wellness platform designed to foster daily balance and long-term growth. Zulma supports organizations as a startup advisor and organizational wellness strategist—helping guide business growth, culture, and team well-being. She also works privately with individuals through 1:1 leadership and mind-body wellness coaching, centering personal alignment, resilience, and sustainable performance. She helps leaders and teams align purpose, performance, and well-being in sustainable, human-centered ways. Beyond her work, she finds joy in outdoor sports, photography, documentary-making, film psychoanalysis, and discovering new cultures and landscapes.
True health and well-being are inseparable from the communities and environments we inhabit. To care for ourselves is to care for those around us—to be pro-social, to support one another through life’s challenges, and to thrive together. Research shows that connection fosters healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives. When we integrate nature and behavioral health into this framework, we unlock a powerful foundation for adaptive, holistic wellness. -Zulma Y. Terrones
Zulma is a true visionary, with a rare gift for bringing ideas to life. She's an adaptable strategist, effortlessly navigating through challenges as they arise. But what really sets her apart is her kindness and humility—always ready to connect with others in a deeply personal and compassionate way. I feel privileged to call her a colleague and friend.
- Javier Omar Meléndez-Vega LCSW at Eutierra Therapy
Zulma has been an outstanding resistance weight trainer. At 73, I've found her creative mix of exercises genuinely benefits me on multiple fronts. Her thoughtful programming has improved my balance, made me feel safer and more stable in daily life, and helped me rebuild muscle mass I'd lost over the years. Because of her training, I now enjoy more eBike riding and longer walks with real confidence. Zulma tailors each session with variety and purpose, never repetitive, always challenging in the right way. She clearly understands the needs of older adults. I highly recommend her to anyone looking to regain strength and independence
- George K., Personal Training Client
“I’m not new to this type of instruction, and or any of the themes that were discussed in our workshop, but it was really nice to have a more structured discussion with like-minded individuals, and to share and discuss things that maybe I’ve had trouble with or that I think I can improve on. I really liked the merch we were given– the pamphlets have been helpful in my everyday life since I’ve done the workshop, and I think I will continue to share and use the resources I was given.”
- Forest Bathing & Mindfulness Hike Participant
Loved this session over lunch. I particularly was having a stressful day and listening to Zulma explain the different ways we can calm down our nervous system, and sharing this time with other Latinas whom may be experiencing similar stressors was priceless.
-Stress Workshop Attendee
" Zulma is a visionary in the field of mental health and wellness. Her exceptional leadership skills and ethical approach to problem-solving make her an outstanding professional. She continually inspires those around her with her dedication and commitment to making a global positive impact."
- AIexander Perez American E-Cycling & Ex-Life Stages
" Zulma is one of our star contributors…"
Being able to do a leadership / mental health workshop out in nature is a dream come true! Zulma is an amazing facilitator and I really appreciated that she customized the workshop to our group's needs. I really loved the emotion wheel handout, having that as a visual was a great touch!
- Skate Like a Girl Employee Wellness Cohort Member
Thank you so much Z for your work in the world, it is so important and needed and I loved the way you held space in the group.
Wonderful information on a blossoming topic. The slides received following the session were also very helpful and appreciated. Thank you!
-Latinas in Tech Stress Workshop Attendee
“...thank you for your outstanding work on the platform. Your consistent high-quality output has been exemplary…”
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Whether you’re a leader, founder, policymaker, or researcher, explore how you and Zulma can build healthier systems and more resilient communities—re-thinking what well-being can mean for yourself and/or your wider community!