Oct. 1, 2025

52. How to Find the Right Ayurvedic Practitioner for Your Health Needs

52. How to Find the Right Ayurvedic Practitioner for Your Health Needs
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52. How to Find the Right Ayurvedic Practitioner for Your Health Needs

In this episode of Everyday Ayurveda with Kate, Kate O’Donnell sits down with Ayurvedic doctor and podcast host Sasha Bershadsky for an eye-opening look at how Ayurveda is taught, practiced, and evolving in the United States.

Many listeners ask:

  • What’s the difference between an Ayurvedic health counselor, practitioner, and doctor?
  • How do you know who to see—and for what kind of health concerns?
  • What kind of training do Ayurvedic doctors in the U.S. actually receive?
  • Will insurance ever cover Ayurvedic care?

Sasha shares her remarkable journey from the corporate advertising world in New York City to eight years of Ayurvedic study, culminating in her doctoral certification with Kerala Ayurveda Academy. She explains the sacrifices and courage it took to commit fully to Ayurveda, and why she believes integration with Western medicine is the future.

This conversation is a must-listen if you are:

  • Considering a career in Ayurveda
  • Wondering what level of practitioner is right for you
  • Curious about how Ayurveda is being standardized in the U.S.
  • Seeking guidance on what to look for when choosing an Ayurvedic professional

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • The differences between counselors, practitioners, and Ayurvedic doctors
  • What Ayurvedic education looks like today in the U.S.
  • How Sasha balanced freelance corporate work while studying Ayurveda
  • The role of courage, faith, and sacrifice in following a calling
  • Practical tips for finding the right Ayurvedic practitioner
  • How Ayurveda could integrate with Western medicine in the future

Connect with Sasha Bershadsky:

Suggested Resources & Links:

Health Disclaimer

The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine.

Connect with Kate: https://www.healwithkate.org

Fall Cleanse: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/products/courses/copy-of-fall-community-cleanse-2024

Thanks to our Sponsors:
Osi Oils. These handcrafted, organic oils are rooted in Ayurvedic tradition and thoughtfully formulated to support your skin, your senses, and your dosha.  Get 20% off at https://www.osioils.com/?ref_cca=kateodonnell with the code AYURVEDA20.

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00:00 - Introduction to Ayurvedic Medicine in the US

03:37 - Meet Sasha Borsky: From Communications to Ayurveda

04:59 - The Journey to Becoming an Ayurvedic Doctor

08:51 - Balancing Corporate Life and Ayurveda Studies

12:54 - The Spiritual Calling and Transition

20:02 - The Challenges and Rewards of Studying Ayurveda

25:36 - A word from our sponsor

32:24 - Educational Pathways in Ayurveda

33:35 - The Journey Begins: Studying Ayurveda

34:00 - Balancing Life and Ayurveda

34:18 - Couch Surfing in New York City

35:59 - Pursuing Ayurvedic Education

42:46 - Becoming an Ayurvedic Doctor

47:54 - Finding and Choosing an Ayurvedic Practitioner

58:09 - Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

58:35 - Daily Routines and Personal Practices