Nigel Lester, MD

DIRECTOR OF MENTAL HEALTH AND PSYCHIATRIST

Dr. Nigel Lester is a board-certified psychiatrist dedicated to helping individuals cultivate lasting mental well-being through a whole-person, prevention-focused approach. He serves as the leading psychiatrist for PALM Health’s Reset Retreat, where he guides participants through a week-long immersive experience geared towards restoring balance and cultivating greater resilience. With extensive clinical experience and a deeply humanistic perspective, Dr. Lester supports individuals as they navigate stress, emotional challenges, and mental health conditions while building the skills necessary for long-term flourishing.

Dr. Lester trained in psychiatry at University College London and St. Vincent’s Hospital in New York City, and formerly served on the faculty in the Department of Psychiatry at Washington University School of Medicine. In addition to his clinical work, he is the president of the Anthropedia Foundation, where he has played a leading role in the development of its internationally recognized Well-Being Coaching model. His work has included designing and implementing programs for diverse populations—from individuals experiencing homelessness in St. Louis to refugee communities in Sweden—reflecting his commitment to integrative mental health care.

Grounded in a biopsychosocial approach, Dr. Lester’s work emphasizes the connection between mental, physical, and social well-being. He is especially passionate about helping individuals better understand their stress responses, build sustainable coping strategies, and develop the internal capacity to perform, adapt, and thrive in the face of life’s demands.

SPECIAL INTERESTS

Anxiety and Depression Treatment, Family Therapy, Trauma, Burnout Treatment and Prevention