About Lorrie

Lorrie earned her Bachelor of Science with Honors in Individual and Family Studies from Pennsylvania State University, graduating with Highest Distinction. She later completed her Master of Applied Positive Psychology (MAPP) at the University of Pennsylvania, among the early graduates of this pioneering program. Her graduate and post-graduate training focused extensively on resilience, well-being, and human performance across the lifespan. This academic foundation informs her integrative approach, combining traditional psychotherapy with the science of Positive Psychology to support both healing and growth.

Lorrie Peniston brings nearly four decades of professional experience grounded in clinical practice. She began her career in the United States working in inpatient and outpatient mental health and addiction services, as well as employee and student assistance programs. After relocating to Bermuda in 1994, she continued her work in Employee Assistance before establishing a longstanding private practice. In 2005, she founded Synergy Ltd.

In 1999, Lorrie was appointed to the Mental Health Review Tribunal in Bermuda, a position she continues to hold. She is also a Collaborative Law Coach and trainer, supporting professionals and couples navigating complex transitions, and is a member of both the Collaborative Law Alliance in Bermuda and the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals.

In 2010, Lorrie joined the University of Pennsylvania’s Penn Resilience Program(PRP) Training Team, one of the world’s leading resilience training initiatives. Now a senior member of the team, she contributes to program development and facilitates resilience training internationally for educational institutions, healthcare systems, law enforcement, military organisations, and select corporate settings.

As part of this work, she spent four years supporting the U.S. Army’s Comprehensive Soldier and Family Fitness Master Resilience Training Program, helping deliver science-based resilience and performance skills to military leadership, civilians, and families. These experiences deepen and inform her clinical understanding of how individuals function within families, teams, and organisational cultures.

Known for her warmth, authenticity, and depth, Lorrie creates a safe and thoughtful environment for meaningful change. She works with adolescents, adults, couples, and families, bringing a compassionate, relational approach grounded in a deep understanding of human behaviour.

Her clinical work integrates traditional psychotherapy with the science of Positive Psychology, supporting not only the reduction of distress but also the development of resilience, insight, and sustainable well-being.

Alongside her private practice, Lorrie partners with leaders and organisations to strengthen psychological capacity, clarity, and resilience in times of complexity and transition. This work remains grounded in clinical wisdom and human connection, ensuring that organisational effectiveness is informed by genuine understanding of people and relationships.

Lorrie is the only therapist in Bermuda to hold a graduate degree in Applied Positive Psychology.