Dr. Kristen LaMarca, Ph.D., DBSM, is a clinical psychologist who is board-certified in behavioral sleep medicine. She is recognized for her expertise on the science and therapeutic applications of lucid dreaming. Her book, Learn to Lucid Dream: Powerful Techniques for Awakening Creativity and Consciousness, oLers a modern guide to inducing and benefiting from the state of lucidity.

Since 2007, Dr. LaMarca has collaborated with Lucidity Institute, co-teaching intensive retreats and conducting research alongside renowned expert, Stephen LaBerge. Her contributions have examined the characteristics of lucid dreaming while optimizing the mindset and physiological conditions for having lucid dreams. This research culminated in publishing an induction protocol that combined memory training, early morning naps, REM sleep biofeedback technology, and galantamine–an herbal supplement known to enhance memory and REM sleep.

As a clinician, Dr. LaMarca has focused on using lucid dreaming to innovate nightmare treatments and pivotal touchpoints in psychotherapy. She emphasizes that lucid dreaming is not about controlling your dreams, but rather, a tool for deepening creativity and insights into how the mind shapes reality. Her practice is accredited by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education trainings on lucid dreaming for psychologists. Dr. LaMarca has been featured in outlets such as USA Today, British Vogue, Engadget, and NPR’s KPBS Midday Edition. Her contributions continue to inspire an appreciation not only for the profound potential of lucid dreaming but also for its accessibility to anyone who is motivated to learn the practice.