Phyllis trained in the Zen while living in Asia in her 20’s and began practicing Tibetan Buddhism in 1983. She completed a Five Year Vajrayana Lineage Program, similar to the traditional three-year retreat, but as a householder, under the guidance of Lama Palden, resident Lama of Sukhasiddhi. She completed the first inter-Lineage three year Zen/Vajrayana Teacher Training Program and is authorized to teach in the Kagyu Lineage (Tibetan/Vajrayana).  Accordingly, she holds the title "Mitra," Sanskrit for "spiritual friend." Phyllis apprenticed in the Navajo Lineage as well and is an attorney in private practice.