Prior to becoming a mental health professional, Scheherazade (Scher) Collins trained and performed as a professional dancer at companies including New York City Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet, and Orlando Ballet, where she retired in 2003. 

Over the course of her dance career, Scher had seen firsthand the lack of mental health support for performing artists, inspiring her to earn a degree in Psychology from the University of Cambridge, specializing in Sport Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy. 

In 2012, Scher established a private practice in Santa Monica, CA, focusing on helping elite performers overcome mental barriers through integrated approaches like biofeedback and psychotherapy. Her expertise spans peak performance, mental skills training, performance anxiety, career transitions, and addressing mental health issues in competitive environments.

As program coordinator for Applied Psychophysiology Education, she stays at the forefront of mental health research and practices, ensuring her clients receive the best care possible.

Beyond her practice, she educates and supports educators and coaches in peak performance fields and has affiliations with organizations including Danscend and Dr. Thomas Brod’s EEGym Neurofeedback practice.