Melinda (Mindy) Ribner L.C.S.W. whose Hebrew name is Miriam Shulamit is an international pioneer in the field of Jewish meditation, having taught Jewish meditation, meditative kabbalah, healing, and spiritual transformation workshops for over 40 years at synagogues of all affiliation from Chabad, modern orthodox, conservative, reform and Jewish renewal to new age centers such as Kripalu, Open Center, Elat Chayyim and more. Through her own organization Beit Miriam, she offered ongoing classes in meditation, New Moon gatherings and alternative holiday gatherings for both men and women In New York City for 25 years.

She has also worked as a spiritual psychotherapist and healer with individuals, couples, and families as well as a Torah lecturer and workshop leader for congregations for over 30 years. She is the author of six books on meditation, Kabbalah, and spiritual transformation. She offers a free newsletter focusing on the Kabbalistic energies of the months, Jewish holidays, meditation, and spiritual growth. 

 Mindy was a close student of Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach of blessed memory, Rabbi Yitzchok Kirzner of blessed memory and other Torah giants. She also studied directly with highly acclaimed meditation teachers of other mystical traditions. She received semicha from Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach to teach Jewish meditation and spiritual transformation. She  was also formerly certified as a Kripalu yoga teacher and a holistic health counselor.