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May 2, 2017
About Us – Our Residential Treatment Center Staff
Learn more about us and our company
About Us – Our Residential Treatment Center Staff
Hope, Passion, and Perseverance…
DISCOVERY RANCH FOR GIRLS RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT CENTER ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Executive Director
Andrea has always known that she would be involved in some aspect of therapeutic services. While pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Family Science at Brigham Young University, she volunteered at The Women’s and Children’s Crisis Center as well as the Utah Valley Crisis Line. Once she graduated from Brigham Young University, she completed a graduate certification from the University of Utah as a certified addictions counselor.
Her 22-year journey in the adolescent treatment industry began as a direct care staff and then supervisor in a Residential Treatment Center for adjudicated adolescent males. She was then promoted to the Director of Individual Residential Treatment, a program that is tasked with placing adjudicated males from a Residential Treatment Center setting into the homes of approved and trained families.
Andrea then transferred to Redcliff Ascent, a premier therapeutic wilderness program for struggling teens. She began her role as a member of the Redcliff Ascent Management Team as a Parent Liaison and was promoted to Assistant Executive Director. In 2002, Andrea became the Executive Director of Redcliff Ascent and served in that capacity for 12 years. During her tenure as Redcliff Ascent’s Executive Director, she served as vice-chair for the Outdoor Behavioral Health Council from 2011 – 2013, an industry association that promotes program standards, ethics, and risk management as well as facilitating outcome research of the efficacy of wilderness programs.
In the fall of 2011, Andrea co-founded Evolving Women, an industry association for women in the adolescent therapeutic industry. Evolving Women’s mission is to provide networking opportunities, professional development, and service. The organization continues to grow in membership and influence for some of the industry’s most talented women.
In April of 2013, Andrea left her beloved post at Redcliff Ascent and was given the remarkable opportunity to lead a dynamic team as the Executive Director of Discovery Ranch for Girls. Set on a 66-acre ranch with a lake, riding arena, barn, and homey living spaces, Andrea began learning more about the intricacies of providing outstanding treatment a Residential Treatment setting.
Andrea is dedicated to providing a program that is safe, therapeutic and effective for students and families. She and her husband have two boys, two dogs, and two cats and enjoy the outdoor life in Southern Utah.
Andrea has always known that she would be involved in some aspect of therapeutic services. While pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Family Science at Brigham Young University, she volunteered at The Women’s and Children’s Crisis Center as well as the Utah Valley Crisis Line. Once she graduated from Brigham Young University, she completed a graduate certification from the University of Utah as a certified addictions counselor.
Her 22-year journey in the adolescent treatment industry began as a direct care staff and then supervisor in a Residential Treatment Center for adjudicated adolescent males. She was then promoted to the Director of Individual Residential Treatment, a program that is tasked with placing adjudicated males from a Residential Treatment Center setting into the homes of approved and trained families.
Andrea then transferred to Redcliff Ascent, a premier therapeutic wilderness program for struggling teens. She began her role as a member of the Redcliff Ascent Management Team as a Parent Liaison and was promoted to Assistant Executive Director. In 2002, Andrea became the Executive Director of Redcliff Ascent and served in that capacity for 12 years. During her tenure as Redcliff Ascent’s Executive Director, she served as vice-chair for the Outdoor Behavioral Health Council from 2011 – 2013, an industry association that promotes program standards, ethics, and risk management as well as facilitating outcome research of the efficacy of wilderness programs.
In the fall of 2011, Andrea co-founded Evolving Women, an industry association for women in the adolescent therapeutic industry. Evolving Women’s mission is to provide networking opportunities, professional development, and service. The organization continues to grow in membership and influence for some of the industry’s most talented women.
In April of 2013, Andrea left her beloved post at Redcliff Ascent and was given the remarkable opportunity to lead a dynamic team as the Executive Director of Discovery Ranch for Girls. Set on a 66-acre ranch with a lake, riding arena, barn, and homey living spaces, Andrea began learning more about the intricacies of providing outstanding treatment a Residential Treatment setting.
Andrea is dedicated to providing a program that is safe, therapeutic and effective for students and families. She and her husband have two boys, two dogs, and two cats and enjoy the outdoor life in Southern Utah.
Clinical Director
Dr. Jack Hinman has been a licensed psychologist for close to ten years and received his doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology in Springfield, Missouri. He completed his APA accredited pre-doctoral internship at the University of Utah’s Neuropsychiatric Institute, and later finished his post-doctoral residency in Community Mental Health in Texas. Jack’s clinical experience is wide ranging and includes psychological assessment; individual, family, and group therapy; and adolescent therapy. He has provided psychological services in a variety of settings, including psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, schools, wilderness programs, and outpatient settings. Jack is a specialty trained and experienced Dialectical Behavior therapist. The past ten years Jack has specialized in female adolescent treatment in multiple treatment setting specializing in the treatment of emotional dysregulation disorders, trauma, eating and personality disorders. He has also taken an interest in adoption and has spoken at national conferences on the role of adoption and addiction. He is passionate about his work as a clinician, but he also loves to play. He is an avid endurance athlete competing in ultra-endurance mountain bikes races, marathons, and half–ironman. Jack enjoys camping and riding bikes with his wife and two children.
Dr. Jack Hinman has been a licensed psychologist for close to ten years and received his doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology in Springfield, Missouri. He completed his APA accredited pre-doctoral internship at the University of Utah’s Neuropsychiatric Institute, and later finished his post-doctoral residency in Community Mental Health in Texas. Jack’s clinical experience is wide ranging and includes psychological assessment; individual, family, and group therapy; and adolescent therapy. He has provided psychological services in a variety of settings, including psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, schools, wilderness programs, and outpatient settings. Jack is a specialty trained and experienced Dialectical Behavior therapist. The past ten years Jack has specialized in female adolescent treatment in multiple treatment setting specializing in the treatment of emotional dysregulation disorders, trauma, eating and personality disorders. He has also taken an interest in adoption and has spoken at national conferences on the role of adoption and addiction. He is passionate about his work as a clinician, but he also loves to play. He is an avid endurance athlete competing in ultra-endurance mountain bikes races, marathons, and half–ironman. Jack enjoys camping and riding bikes with his wife and two children.
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Admissions Director
Daryn started her work with therapeutic programs in 2006 after six years in the United States Navy and a year of independent humanitarian work in Zimbabwe. Since then Daryn co-founded and co-ran a learning differences day school, was the team leader in a wilderness program and was the program director for a young adult transition program.
Daryn started her work with therapeutic programs in 2006 after six years in the United States Navy and a year of independent humanitarian work in Zimbabwe. Since then Daryn co-founded and co-ran a learning differences day school, was the team leader in a wilderness program and was the program director for a young adult transition program.
Being passionate about the joys of outdoor and experiential learning, Daryn was drawn to the team at Discovery Ranch for Girls.
“It’s the multi-modal experiential learning through the calf program; the high adventure recreational therapy trips and the academic strength based model that allows students to develop competencies in learning that drew me to DRG.”, says Riener.
Daryn’s knowledge of wilderness therapy and experience in other therapeutic environments allows her to connect quickly with parents and provide a sense of calmness to the transition process. Many of the students come to DRG from wilderness programs and other acute care treatment settings.
She says; “My favorite part of the ranch is the ethos of doing something real and meaningful that is so alive here.”
Daryn graduated from Seattle University, a social justice institution, with a bachelor’s degree in cultural anthropology. Daryn is committed to creating an environment for our clients and families where people of all backgrounds and identities feel respected, honored, and safe. Daryn is currently working on her master’s degree in business at Southern Utah University. Daryn spends her free time with her husband, two young sons, and their two dogs rock climbing, skiing, whitewater kayaking, canoeing, cycling, reading, and traveling.
Andrea Burgess, Executive Director at DRG mentioned, “With a quiet confidence and a compassionate demeanor, Daryn is a joy to speak with! We are so excited to have her be a part of our team!”
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Residential Director
Matt Crosby began working with troubled youth in 1998 when, as an undergraduate student, he took a part-time job working with juvenile sex offenders. In the fifteen years since, he has worked for a variety of residential treatment programs helping teens and adolescents struggling with a range of issues.
Matt Crosby began working with troubled youth in 1998 when, as an undergraduate student, he took a part-time job working with juvenile sex offenders. In the fifteen years since, he has worked for a variety of residential treatment programs helping teens and adolescents struggling with a range of issues.
Matt has held a longtime fascination with the effectiveness of residential treatment, and the differences in approach for those programs that actually facilitate meaningful and long-lasting changes in young people’s lives. He is passionate about making Discovery Ranch for Girls one of those programs. As part of the original team that started Discovery Ranch, Matt helped design and implement their unique and highly successful approach to treatment. He is a strong believer in the power of experiential activities and adventures, and in working with animals, as agents of healing and change.
Matt is also a writer and teacher. He has an MA and an MFA in English and Creative Writing and has taught writing courses for years at the college level. He and his beautiful wife are the parents of three little boys, ages 5, 3, and 8 weeks. They also have a wonderful little beagle, Sally, two years old, who is a money pit and constant headache. She’s for sale!
Experiential Director
Lee Bingham is currently the Equine Director at Discovery Ranch For Girls. Equine therapy can be a strong part of your daughters therapy. There are many experiential learning opportunities at our more than 60 acre location! The girls will have the opportunity to work with horses, calves, cooking, swimming, fishing, boating, climbing and ropes courses, yoga, hiking, winter activities and so much more. To learn more about our Equine Therapy program click here: Equine Therapy
Lee Bingham is currently the Equine Director at Discovery Ranch For Girls. Equine therapy can be a strong part of your daughters therapy. There are many experiential learning opportunities at our more than 60 acre location! The girls will have the opportunity to work with horses, calves, cooking, swimming, fishing, boating, climbing and ropes courses, yoga, hiking, winter activities and so much more. To learn more about our Equine Therapy program click here: Equine Therapy
Lee has never known a life without horses or cattle. She was raised on a local ranch here in Cedar City, Utah. Taking the reins of her own horse, at three years old, sparked her love for these noble and trustworthy animals.
Her rodeo career began at the age of nine, competing in junior rodeos, then on to high school and college. She earned two National High School Goat Tying Titles and one National College Title along the way. Lee volunteers throughout the state offering private goat tying lessons to youth.
She earned her bachelor degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Southern Utah University in 2002.
Lee values hard work, honesty, and integrity. She enjoys watching the girls at the ranch develop these skills from working with the horses and calves. The most fulfilling piece of her job is watching the deep relationships the girls build with the animals and waiting for that “in the moment” teaching experience to unfold between them.
Lee loves spending time with her husband and their three boys. They enjoy working and riding on their ranch, farming, camping, fishing, hunting, team roping, golfing, and playing basketball and baseball.
“We reach goals one step at a time. We cannot be perfect today or tomorrow but we can be better than we were yesterday.” —Author unknown–
Academic Director
Clint Firth is the Academic Director at Discovery Ranch for Girls. Clint’s circuitous route to the teaching profession began when he graduated from Brigham Young University with a B.A. in International Politics. After spending eight years in the technology industry, most of which was spent as CEO of IntekUSA, Inc, he was convinced by his wife to follow his heart and turn his passion for databases, business math, and kids into a teaching profession. Since that decision, Clint has worked 6 years as a full-time math teacher — 3 as a public school teacher and 3 in the private residential community. He now has a clear math teaching credential in the State of California, as well as being a certified Teacher of English Learners. Clint also has a passion for music and guitars, and he has taught private guitar lessons for several years. Clint and his wife Alison are the happy parents of six beautiful children, all of whom are intelligent, spirited, gifted, and extremely challenging to parent. Hobbies include guitar music, basketball, backpacking, gardening, and anything else he can do with his family.
Clint Firth is the Academic Director at Discovery Ranch for Girls. Clint’s circuitous route to the teaching profession began when he graduated from Brigham Young University with a B.A. in International Politics. After spending eight years in the technology industry, most of which was spent as CEO of IntekUSA, Inc, he was convinced by his wife to follow his heart and turn his passion for databases, business math, and kids into a teaching profession. Since that decision, Clint has worked 6 years as a full-time math teacher — 3 as a public school teacher and 3 in the private residential community. He now has a clear math teaching credential in the State of California, as well as being a certified Teacher of English Learners. Clint also has a passion for music and guitars, and he has taught private guitar lessons for several years. Clint and his wife Alison are the happy parents of six beautiful children, all of whom are intelligent, spirited, gifted, and extremely challenging to parent. Hobbies include guitar music, basketball, backpacking, gardening, and anything else he can do with his family.
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Recreation Director
David has been a member of the Discovery Ranch for Girls team since May of 2016. Initially, David came to work at DRG as a mentor and was promoted to a position as a Residential Supervisor. David has always viewed the therapeutic process as being multi-faceted with adventure education being at the heart of the process of change that clients embark on while at DRG. In 2009 he completed his Master’s degree which focused on the impact of adventure and challenged based programming on the ability of adolescents to overcome diverse and challenging experiences. As Recreation Director David’s goal is to continue to enhance the effectiveness of programming through extensive collaboration with the clinical team as well as developing exciting adventure programming to such as skiing, snowboarding, winter sports, outdoor survival skills, extended river trips, climbing and canyoneering trips. David views adventure education and peak experiences as effective means to truly empower the young women at DRG.
Prior to DRG David established a strong reputation as a wilderness therapy professional and served as Field Director for New Vision Wilderness (NVW). Under his leadership at this nationally recognized wilderness treatment program, he proudly contributed to a 200 percent enrollment increase during his tenure through several program development initiatives, marketing, and outstanding communication with consultants, parents and most importantly, enrolled clients. In 2010 David moved to Ireland where he served as the Program Coordinator for the Arts for Peace Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to community outreach, development and the development of healthy recreational opportunities for Irish youth.
When David is not leading groups of youth into the backcountry or facilitating activities, he enjoys rock climbing, white water kayaking, canyoneering, skiing, backpacking, and canoeing. In the fall of 2016 David, his wife, and their dog paddled 2300 miles from the source of the Mississippi in Northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.
David has been a member of the Discovery Ranch for Girls team since May of 2016. Initially, David came to work at DRG as a mentor and was promoted to a position as a Residential Supervisor. David has always viewed the therapeutic process as being multi-faceted with adventure education being at the heart of the process of change that clients embark on while at DRG. In 2009 he completed his Master’s degree which focused on the impact of adventure and challenged based programming on the ability of adolescents to overcome diverse and challenging experiences. As Recreation Director David’s goal is to continue to enhance the effectiveness of programming through extensive collaboration with the clinical team as well as developing exciting adventure programming to such as skiing, snowboarding, winter sports, outdoor survival skills, extended river trips, climbing and canyoneering trips. David views adventure education and peak experiences as effective means to truly empower the young women at DRG.
Prior to DRG David established a strong reputation as a wilderness therapy professional and served as Field Director for New Vision Wilderness (NVW). Under his leadership at this nationally recognized wilderness treatment program, he proudly contributed to a 200 percent enrollment increase during his tenure through several program development initiatives, marketing, and outstanding communication with consultants, parents and most importantly, enrolled clients. In 2010 David moved to Ireland where he served as the Program Coordinator for the Arts for Peace Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to community outreach, development and the development of healthy recreational opportunities for Irish youth.
When David is not leading groups of youth into the backcountry or facilitating activities, he enjoys rock climbing, white water kayaking, canyoneering, skiing, backpacking, and canoeing. In the fall of 2016 David, his wife, and their dog paddled 2300 miles from the source of the Mississippi in Northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.
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Performing Arts Director
Alex Allred is the Performing Arts Director at Discovery Ranch for Girls. He became interested in the performing arts as a teenager in Arizona where he acted as part of a youth theatre group. He has earned a degree in classical acting from Southern Utah University where he became educated and experienced in Shakespeare, musical theatre, contemporary theatre, directing and design. Since graduating he has worked professionally in Utah and Los Angeles as an actor, musician, and teacher and has recently spent time studying film acting. Throughout his years in theatre he has seen how it has shaped him as a person. It has been a way for him to connect, a way to learn to understand the perspectives and experiences of others and a way to work through his own struggles. He is thrilled to have the opportunity to teach and share what he loves with the girls at DRG.
Alex Allred is the Performing Arts Director at Discovery Ranch for Girls. He became interested in the performing arts as a teenager in Arizona where he acted as part of a youth theatre group. He has earned a degree in classical acting from Southern Utah University where he became educated and experienced in Shakespeare, musical theatre, contemporary theatre, directing and design. Since graduating he has worked professionally in Utah and Los Angeles as an actor, musician, and teacher and has recently spent time studying film acting. Throughout his years in theatre he has seen how it has shaped him as a person. It has been a way for him to connect, a way to learn to understand the perspectives and experiences of others and a way to work through his own struggles. He is thrilled to have the opportunity to teach and share what he loves with the girls at DRG.
DISCOVERY RANCH FOR GIRLS CLINICAL STAFF
Clinical Director – Therapist
Dr. Jack Hinman has been a licensed psychologist for close to ten years and received his doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology in Springfield, Missouri. He completed his APA accredited pre-doctoral internship at the University of Utah’s Neuropsychiatric Institute, and later finished his post-doctoral residency in Community Mental Health in Texas. Jack’s clinical experience is wide ranging and includes psychological assessment; individual, family, and group therapy; and adolescent therapy. He has provided psychological services in a variety of settings, including psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, schools, wilderness programs, and outpatient settings. Jack is a specialty trained and experienced Dialectical Behavior therapist. The past ten years Jack has specialized in female adolescent treatment in multiple treatment setting specializing in the treatment of emotional dysregulation disorders, trauma, eating and personality disorders. He has also taken an interest in adoption and has spoken at national conferences on the role of adoption and addiction. He is passionate about his work as a clinician, but he also loves to play. He is an avid endurance athlete competing in ultra-endurance mountain bikes races, marathons, and half–ironman. Jack enjoys camping and riding bikes with his wife and two children.
Dr. Jack Hinman has been a licensed psychologist for close to ten years and received his doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology in Springfield, Missouri. He completed his APA accredited pre-doctoral internship at the University of Utah’s Neuropsychiatric Institute, and later finished his post-doctoral residency in Community Mental Health in Texas. Jack’s clinical experience is wide ranging and includes psychological assessment; individual, family, and group therapy; and adolescent therapy. He has provided psychological services in a variety of settings, including psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, schools, wilderness programs, and outpatient settings. Jack is a specialty trained and experienced Dialectical Behavior therapist. The past ten years Jack has specialized in female adolescent treatment in multiple treatment setting specializing in the treatment of emotional dysregulation disorders, trauma, eating and personality disorders. He has also taken an interest in adoption and has spoken at national conferences on the role of adoption and addiction. He is passionate about his work as a clinician, but he also loves to play. He is an avid endurance athlete competing in ultra-endurance mountain bikes races, marathons, and half–ironman. Jack enjoys camping and riding bikes with his wife and two children.
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Therapist
Marliett:
Marliett Davis received her Master’s degree in Social Work at Colorado State University and has provided clinical services for adolescents and adults in various settings. Prior to her graduate program, Marliett worked as a care technician at the Center for Change, a respected inpatient and residential treatment center for eating disorders. While working for CSU as an intern and then as their Post Masters Fellow, she worked with the Drugs, Alcohol, and You Program which is a program specifically designed to help students address their drug and alcohol issues while still attending classes instead of being fully suspended from the University. After completing her internship and post-Masters Fellowship at CSU, she continued to work for CSU as well as for La Luna Center for Eating Disorders and maintained a Private Practice all at the same time until coming to work at Discovery Ranch for Girls. Marliett attended training by Behavior Tech in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and specializes in the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder. Marliett also specializes in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, drug and alcohol issues, trauma, grief, personality and mood disorders. She uses an empathic and strengths-based therapeutic style while incorporating various other treatment modalities, including interpersonal therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition to her love for her work as a clinician, Marliett enjoys observing and creating art, interior design, spending time outdoors, caring for animals, listening to and creating music, playing board games, and spending time with family and friends.
Lily:
Lily is 6 years old and has been providing her own kind of therapy for almost 5 years now. She is an AKC certified purebred Yorkshire terrier and is also known as a little teapot, as she weighs more than 7 pounds. Lily loves to play and nap with the girls and is a loyal and faithful companion to Marliett. Even though this middle-aged woman has not completed her own graduate work training, she has far surpassed expectations and helps to heal hearts every day. She looks forward to snuggling and singing with the girls and between naps, she loves to chase lizards around the ranch. Lily has strong views about the importance of embracing her inner puppy and feels that dressing up in Halloween costumes all year round helps to keep her young!
Marliett:
Marliett Davis received her Master’s degree in Social Work at Colorado State University and has provided clinical services for adolescents and adults in various settings. Prior to her graduate program, Marliett worked as a care technician at the Center for Change, a respected inpatient and residential treatment center for eating disorders. While working for CSU as an intern and then as their Post Masters Fellow, she worked with the Drugs, Alcohol, and You Program which is a program specifically designed to help students address their drug and alcohol issues while still attending classes instead of being fully suspended from the University. After completing her internship and post-Masters Fellowship at CSU, she continued to work for CSU as well as for La Luna Center for Eating Disorders and maintained a Private Practice all at the same time until coming to work at Discovery Ranch for Girls. Marliett attended training by Behavior Tech in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and specializes in the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder. Marliett also specializes in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, drug and alcohol issues, trauma, grief, personality and mood disorders. She uses an empathic and strengths-based therapeutic style while incorporating various other treatment modalities, including interpersonal therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. In addition to her love for her work as a clinician, Marliett enjoys observing and creating art, interior design, spending time outdoors, caring for animals, listening to and creating music, playing board games, and spending time with family and friends.
Lily:
Lily is 6 years old and has been providing her own kind of therapy for almost 5 years now. She is an AKC certified purebred Yorkshire terrier and is also known as a little teapot, as she weighs more than 7 pounds. Lily loves to play and nap with the girls and is a loyal and faithful companion to Marliett. Even though this middle-aged woman has not completed her own graduate work training, she has far surpassed expectations and helps to heal hearts every day. She looks forward to snuggling and singing with the girls and between naps, she loves to chase lizards around the ranch. Lily has strong views about the importance of embracing her inner puppy and feels that dressing up in Halloween costumes all year round helps to keep her young!
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Therapist
Dr. Scott Huff received his Doctorate and Master’s Degrees in Human Development and Family Studies specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Connecticut and his Bachelor’s degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development from Brigham Young University. Scott has been providing therapy for individuals, couples, and families for more than five years and has had experience with many types of families and problems. Scott approaches therapy with a style marked by deep compassion, a search for understanding, and supportive challenges. Through his years of experience, he has worked with individuals and families struggling with depression, anxiety, family conflict, eating disorders, addictions, attachment problems, suicidal ideation, trauma, and many other problems. Scott has developed a particular expertise in working with divorced families, based on extensive experience providing conjoint therapy to divorced couples. Scott maintains an active involvement in the research community, contributing to the therapeutic community’s understanding of what makes for the most helpful therapy. Scott spends most of his free time wrestling with his three sons (6, 4, and 1) and spending time with his wife.
Dr. Scott Huff received his Doctorate and Master’s Degrees in Human Development and Family Studies specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Connecticut and his Bachelor’s degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development from Brigham Young University. Scott has been providing therapy for individuals, couples, and families for more than five years and has had experience with many types of families and problems. Scott approaches therapy with a style marked by deep compassion, a search for understanding, and supportive challenges. Through his years of experience, he has worked with individuals and families struggling with depression, anxiety, family conflict, eating disorders, addictions, attachment problems, suicidal ideation, trauma, and many other problems. Scott has developed a particular expertise in working with divorced families, based on extensive experience providing conjoint therapy to divorced couples. Scott maintains an active involvement in the research community, contributing to the therapeutic community’s understanding of what makes for the most helpful therapy. Scott spends most of his free time wrestling with his three sons (6, 4, and 1) and spending time with his wife.
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Therapist
Dr. Sidney Dang received his doctoral degree in clinical psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, Illinois. He completed his APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at Providence/Saint John’s Child and Family Development Center in Santa Monica, California providing individual, group, and family therapy, as well as administering psychological assessments, to underserved families within the community. He has provided psychological services in a variety of settings including schools, residential treatment facilities, non-profit organizations, partial and inpatient hospital, outpatient, and home settings. Sidney has been trained in the following evidence-based practices: Managing Adaptive Practices (MAP), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Crisis Oriented Recovery Services (CORS), and Seeking Safety. He has clinical experience in working with individuals impacted by anxiety, trauma, pervasive developmental disorders, and emotional dysregulation disorders. As a research assistant, Sidney contributed to When Diagnostic Labels Mask Trauma and presented at professional conferences on the adolescent subjective experience of treatment needs in residential treatment. He also has a special interest in culturally sensitive approaches to therapy, including utilizing music and hip-hop as a therapeutic intervention to help empower youth to explore their difficulties and reflect on their experiences from a critical lens. As a result, Sidney co-authored a book chapter in See You at the Crossroads: Hip Hop Scholarship at the Intersections. His clinical and research interests include child trauma, multiculturalism, community violence, substance abuse, and critical psychology. Sidney is excited to be closer to nature and plans to begin rock climbing and hiking.
Dr. Sidney Dang received his doctoral degree in clinical psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, Illinois. He completed his APA-accredited pre-doctoral internship at Providence/Saint John’s Child and Family Development Center in Santa Monica, California providing individual, group, and family therapy, as well as administering psychological assessments, to underserved families within the community. He has provided psychological services in a variety of settings including schools, residential treatment facilities, non-profit organizations, partial and inpatient hospital, outpatient, and home settings. Sidney has been trained in the following evidence-based practices: Managing Adaptive Practices (MAP), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Crisis Oriented Recovery Services (CORS), and Seeking Safety. He has clinical experience in working with individuals impacted by anxiety, trauma, pervasive developmental disorders, and emotional dysregulation disorders. As a research assistant, Sidney contributed to When Diagnostic Labels Mask Trauma and presented at professional conferences on the adolescent subjective experience of treatment needs in residential treatment. He also has a special interest in culturally sensitive approaches to therapy, including utilizing music and hip-hop as a therapeutic intervention to help empower youth to explore their difficulties and reflect on their experiences from a critical lens. As a result, Sidney co-authored a book chapter in See You at the Crossroads: Hip Hop Scholarship at the Intersections. His clinical and research interests include child trauma, multiculturalism, community violence, substance abuse, and critical psychology. Sidney is excited to be closer to nature and plans to begin rock climbing and hiking.
Therapist
Dr. Brian Daniels is a graduate of the Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s Child and Adolescent Track and completed his APA-accredited Predoctoral Internship at OhioGuidestone in Brook Park, Ohio. Prior to working at Discovery Ranch for Girls, Brian gained experience as a therapist working with young adults at a wilderness therapy program. He fulfilled his practica as an Advanced Therapy Extern at the Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School at the University of Chicago from, as a Therapy Extern at Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital from, and as a Diagnostic Extern at the Counseling Center of Lakeview. Brian has also gained valuable residential experience as a Youth Care Worker and Supervisor at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. In addition to his internship and work experience, Brian has performed comprehensive research in the field of clinical psychology and residential treatment, including publications, professional presentations, and conference presentations. Brian received his B.A. in Psychology from Indiana University, his M.S. in Child Development from the Erikson Institute, and his Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. His theoretical orientation is integrative with foundations in psychodynamic, developmental, and humanistic theories. Dr. Daniels’s professional interests are in the areas of wilderness therapy; the role nature plays in self-discovery, relationships, and youth development; play based modalities; relational and strengths-based approaches to therapy; subjective experiences and phenomenological research; and developmental and object relations theory. Brian is a member of the Utah Psychological Association, American Psychological Association, and the Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology. Brian enjoys going to concerts, arts and culture events, camping, hiking with his dog Rex, rooting for the Cleveland Indians and Cavaliers, and exploring the vast wilderness of Southern Utah.
Dr. Brian Daniels is a graduate of the Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s Child and Adolescent Track and completed his APA-accredited Predoctoral Internship at OhioGuidestone in Brook Park, Ohio. Prior to working at Discovery Ranch for Girls, Brian gained experience as a therapist working with young adults at a wilderness therapy program. He fulfilled his practica as an Advanced Therapy Extern at the Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School at the University of Chicago from, as a Therapy Extern at Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital from, and as a Diagnostic Extern at the Counseling Center of Lakeview. Brian has also gained valuable residential experience as a Youth Care Worker and Supervisor at Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. In addition to his internship and work experience, Brian has performed comprehensive research in the field of clinical psychology and residential treatment, including publications, professional presentations, and conference presentations. Brian received his B.A. in Psychology from Indiana University, his M.S. in Child Development from the Erikson Institute, and his Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. His theoretical orientation is integrative with foundations in psychodynamic, developmental, and humanistic theories. Dr. Daniels’s professional interests are in the areas of wilderness therapy; the role nature plays in self-discovery, relationships, and youth development; play based modalities; relational and strengths-based approaches to therapy; subjective experiences and phenomenological research; and developmental and object relations theory. Brian is a member of the Utah Psychological Association, American Psychological Association, and the Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology. Brian enjoys going to concerts, arts and culture events, camping, hiking with his dog Rex, rooting for the Cleveland Indians and Cavaliers, and exploring the vast wilderness of Southern Utah.
Cindy is a licensed Advance Substance Counselor with the state of Utah. She began her career in 1992 and was trained in Pastoral Dialogical counseling skills and Gestalt trauma work with the United States Navy Chaplains organization. Cindy participated in personal and spiritual growth retreats from 1992-1997. She then began substance counseling experience in 1997 with Volunteers of America residential programs located in San Diego California and worked her way to becoming the Residential Program Manager. During her time in California, she attended San Diego City College Alcohol and other Drugs Study program and graduated in 2001. After her time at the Volunteers of America program, she began working in the Criminal Justice Program known as Drug Court with the organization Community Connection from 2001- 2004. During that time she held 2 California certifications CATS & CADACII. In 2004 Cindy and her family relocated to Utah where she continued her career with Homeless Outreach, Residential programs, collaborated with two Counseling center’s outpatient programs in designing substance abuse/addiction programs. Cindy also earned her Utah License in substance abuse counseling. Cindy’s other certifications include anger management, domestic violence, and family addiction with social services in San Diego California.
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Therapist
Melissa Cacialli received her Master’s degree in counseling from Ball State University. She prides herself in having worked in a variety of therapeutic fields including wilderness therapy, therapeutic boarding school environments and in community-based counseling centers. She understands the importance of helping families transition into and through these environments, working to make sure that no growth or effort is lost in the journey between providers. Melissa has been trained in Post Induction Therapy which allows her to focus on each girl’s movement through the developmental stages and into the development of functional coping skills. Melissa is also trained in sand tray therapy and values the way this modality allows children, teens, and families to manifest their story and their trauma in a safe and concrete manner. Melissa has been certified in EMDR since 2012 and served on the board of the Arizona Trauma Recovery Network prior to taking her position at Discovery Ranch. Melissa believes that all healing must ultimately occur in the context of healthy, healing relationships and she works slowly but steadily to build a unique platform of trust with each girl and family she encounters. She understands that sometimes this best occurs when working side by side in collaboration with her clients and she looks forward to providing counseling in all areas including the office, the field, school and more. Honoring each young woman’s innate ability to heal when given the tools and time to “risk being real” is what motivates Melissa to continue this work. In her spare time, Melissa enjoys running, hiking, dancing and rock climbing with her husband in the beautiful Utah wilderness.
Melissa Cacialli received her Master’s degree in counseling from Ball State University. She prides herself in having worked in a variety of therapeutic fields including wilderness therapy, therapeutic boarding school environments and in community-based counseling centers. She understands the importance of helping families transition into and through these environments, working to make sure that no growth or effort is lost in the journey between providers. Melissa has been trained in Post Induction Therapy which allows her to focus on each girl’s movement through the developmental stages and into the development of functional coping skills. Melissa is also trained in sand tray therapy and values the way this modality allows children, teens, and families to manifest their story and their trauma in a safe and concrete manner. Melissa has been certified in EMDR since 2012 and served on the board of the Arizona Trauma Recovery Network prior to taking her position at Discovery Ranch. Melissa believes that all healing must ultimately occur in the context of healthy, healing relationships and she works slowly but steadily to build a unique platform of trust with each girl and family she encounters. She understands that sometimes this best occurs when working side by side in collaboration with her clients and she looks forward to providing counseling in all areas including the office, the field, school and more. Honoring each young woman’s innate ability to heal when given the tools and time to “risk being real” is what motivates Melissa to continue this work. In her spare time, Melissa enjoys running, hiking, dancing and rock climbing with her husband in the beautiful Utah wilderness.
Therapist
Trina received a Bachelor of Arts in English from Roanoke College in Virginia and is completing her Master’s degree in Counseling from Saybrook University in California. Trina has provided mental health services for nearly a decade in many different roles. She aims to be a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Utah upon earning her Master’s degree in December of 2017. She will be a Therapist at Discovery Ranch for Girls as part of her practicum and internship for licensure.
Underneath her academic experience, Trina brings years of professional experience. She was a mentor field instructor in wilderness therapy for four years, working with adolescent girls, adolescent boys, and co-ed adult groups. Trina was an assistant wilderness therapist to a renowned clinical psychologist for two years. During this time she worked primarily with adolescent girls and their families, where she gained valuable mentorship even before starting graduate school. She has also worked at a residential treatment center for young adult female clients, which was highly individualized and utilized EMDR therapy.
Through gaining these experiences with diverse populations, their families and referral partners, Trina is passionate towards keeping traction amid transitions in treatment. Her strengths have been highlighted by others as a natural ability to empathize and reach the population she is working with, while simultaneously balancing accountability. Adolescent girls often resonate with Trina’s ability to create a welcoming atmosphere to genuinely grow and learn about one’s self.
Trina’s clinical lenses include honoring the many factors at play through a psychodynamic approach, and relative to individual development over the life span. Trina tends to pull from multiple theoretical lenses to best meet individual needs. Trina conceptualizes healing through a systems theory approach, including earning guardians’ trust, utilizing genograms, seeing contextual factors, along with the tapping into the innate self-healing powers of individuals.
This reflects her core in a humanistic approach towards co-creating lasting change for an individual. This means that your daughter is always a unique person in Trina’s eyes, with the ability to face her monsters and, ultimately and sustainably, heal herself. Trina incorporates advocacy into her work when helpful, and fosters being an advocate of one’s self. Trina Grater is currently a member of the Utah Mental Health Counselors Association and the American Counseling Association.
Trina grew up in Northeast Ohio and has lived with her husband in Southwest Utah since 2009. Some of her favorite things to do are to hike with her dog, play soccer, practice yoga, create art, bake, dance, and travel to new places. She loves any adventure that involves water and swimming, and treasures moments of sitting on her cabin porch and enjoying her husband’s home roasted coffee. Go Cleveland Browns!
Trina received a Bachelor of Arts in English from Roanoke College in Virginia and is completing her Master’s degree in Counseling from Saybrook University in California. Trina has provided mental health services for nearly a decade in many different roles. She aims to be a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Utah upon earning her Master’s degree in December of 2017. She will be a Therapist at Discovery Ranch for Girls as part of her practicum and internship for licensure.
Underneath her academic experience, Trina brings years of professional experience. She was a mentor field instructor in wilderness therapy for four years, working with adolescent girls, adolescent boys, and co-ed adult groups. Trina was an assistant wilderness therapist to a renowned clinical psychologist for two years. During this time she worked primarily with adolescent girls and their families, where she gained valuable mentorship even before starting graduate school. She has also worked at a residential treatment center for young adult female clients, which was highly individualized and utilized EMDR therapy.
Through gaining these experiences with diverse populations, their families and referral partners, Trina is passionate towards keeping traction amid transitions in treatment. Her strengths have been highlighted by others as a natural ability to empathize and reach the population she is working with, while simultaneously balancing accountability. Adolescent girls often resonate with Trina’s ability to create a welcoming atmosphere to genuinely grow and learn about one’s self.
Trina’s clinical lenses include honoring the many factors at play through a psychodynamic approach, and relative to individual development over the life span. Trina tends to pull from multiple theoretical lenses to best meet individual needs. Trina conceptualizes healing through a systems theory approach, including earning guardians’ trust, utilizing genograms, seeing contextual factors, along with the tapping into the innate self-healing powers of individuals.
This reflects her core in a humanistic approach towards co-creating lasting change for an individual. This means that your daughter is always a unique person in Trina’s eyes, with the ability to face her monsters and, ultimately and sustainably, heal herself. Trina incorporates advocacy into her work when helpful, and fosters being an advocate of one’s self. Trina Grater is currently a member of the Utah Mental Health Counselors Association and the American Counseling Association.
Trina grew up in Northeast Ohio and has lived with her husband in Southwest Utah since 2009. Some of her favorite things to do are to hike with her dog, play soccer, practice yoga, create art, bake, dance, and travel to new places. She loves any adventure that involves water and swimming, and treasures moments of sitting on her cabin porch and enjoying her husband’s home roasted coffee. Go Cleveland Browns!
Therapist
Alex Baird has been a licensed marriage and family therapist for about three years. She received her undergraduate degree in psychology from Utah State University and her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Argosy University. Alex has worked in clinical settings for close to seven years.
These settings have included community mental health, in-home child and family therapy, adult substance abuse treatment, adolescent residential treatment and private practice. While practicing independently, Alex took a special interest in working with individuals who identify with the LGBTQ community as well as continuing her work with adolescents and their families. Alex is well versed in relational therapy and how to help improve communication and resolve problems between individuals in order to experience healthier, more harmonious relationships. In particular, Alex has a talent for helping parents navigate through the difficulties of having an adolescent with behavioral and mental health challenges, and to help the adolescent heal and strengthen their relationship with their parents and with themselves. She also has significant experience helping families navigate through a divorce, couple’s issues and blended families. When Alex isn’t at the ranch, she loves spending time with her husband, her two boys and her two step-daughters. She enjoys practicing yoga and Pilates, solving puzzles, reading, and traveling with her family.
Therapist
Amanda Mosse received her Master’s degree in social work from Southern Illinois University Carbondale in 2009 and has been working in a variety of therapeutic settings since 2008. Before coming to Discovery Ranch for Girls Amanda was a lead wilderness therapist in Wisconsin where she specialized in trauma and attachment and became level 1 and 2 Brainspotting trained. Over the years Amanda has developed extensive experience working with individuals and their families struggling with depression, anxiety, unhealthy family dynamics, drug and alcohol dependence, suicidal ideation, trauma, and attachment disorders. While working in the wilderness, she was known for being able to bring an experiential component to therapeutic groups and individual sessions. Amanda is a firm believer in meeting the clients where they are at while also challenging them in their process. Prior to becoming a therapist Amanda worked as a field instructor for approximately 4 years at various wilderness programs.
This has given Amanda a unique view of how to effectively work with youth who are struggling. In 2009 Amanda worked in Ireland as a program coordinator for the Arts for Peace Foundation providing experiential therapeutic experiences in a variety of settings. In this role, she worked with elementary aged children working on communication and trust through art projects and experiential activities. She also worked for a brief period in St. Patrick prison in Dublin facilitating experiential activities based on healthy communication and building trust. When not working with youth Amanda enjoys backpacking, hiking, spending time with friends and family and canoeing. Recently Amanda and her husband completed a 2,552-mile journey down the Mississippi River starting at its ultimate source in Northern Minnesota and ending at the Gulf of Mexico. This journey was directly related to her other passion which is helping homeless youth. This journey was not just an expedition down the largest river in the country, it was also in an effort to raise money for a non-profit organization in Colorado which supports and provides resources to homeless youth.
Amanda Mosse received her Master’s degree in social work from Southern Illinois University Carbondale in 2009 and has been working in a variety of therapeutic settings since 2008. Before coming to Discovery Ranch for Girls Amanda was a lead wilderness therapist in Wisconsin where she specialized in trauma and attachment and became level 1 and 2 Brainspotting trained. Over the years Amanda has developed extensive experience working with individuals and their families struggling with depression, anxiety, unhealthy family dynamics, drug and alcohol dependence, suicidal ideation, trauma, and attachment disorders. While working in the wilderness, she was known for being able to bring an experiential component to therapeutic groups and individual sessions. Amanda is a firm believer in meeting the clients where they are at while also challenging them in their process. Prior to becoming a therapist Amanda worked as a field instructor for approximately 4 years at various wilderness programs.
This has given Amanda a unique view of how to effectively work with youth who are struggling. In 2009 Amanda worked in Ireland as a program coordinator for the Arts for Peace Foundation providing experiential therapeutic experiences in a variety of settings. In this role, she worked with elementary aged children working on communication and trust through art projects and experiential activities. She also worked for a brief period in St. Patrick prison in Dublin facilitating experiential activities based on healthy communication and building trust. When not working with youth Amanda enjoys backpacking, hiking, spending time with friends and family and canoeing. Recently Amanda and her husband completed a 2,552-mile journey down the Mississippi River starting at its ultimate source in Northern Minnesota and ending at the Gulf of Mexico. This journey was directly related to her other passion which is helping homeless youth. This journey was not just an expedition down the largest river in the country, it was also in an effort to raise money for a non-profit organization in Colorado which supports and provides resources to homeless youth.
Therapist
Laura Klina has worked as a mental health therapist for 8 years in the suburbs of Philadelphia and central Pennsylvania. She has a Masters degree from Chestnut Hill College in clinical and counseling psychology with a specialization in children and adolescents. Laura also has a religious studies certification from the same college. She is skilled in CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) techniques, co-occurring disorders, and trauma-focused CBT with children, and draws upon Gestalt techniques, and familial, art, music, play, and animal-assisted therapies. Laura’s passion for experiential therapies has led her to work with girls on the autism spectrum. Laura uses social learning with animals to teach social learning to girls diagnosed with ASD in a normalized, non-shaming manner.
Laura Klina has worked as a mental health therapist for 8 years in the suburbs of Philadelphia and central Pennsylvania. She has a Masters degree from Chestnut Hill College in clinical and counseling psychology with a specialization in children and adolescents. Laura also has a religious studies certification from the same college. She is skilled in CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) techniques, co-occurring disorders, and trauma-focused CBT with children, and draws upon Gestalt techniques, and familial, art, music, play, and animal-assisted therapies. Laura’s passion for experiential therapies has led her to work with girls on the autism spectrum. Laura uses social learning with animals to teach social learning to girls diagnosed with ASD in a normalized, non-shaming manner.
In addition providing individual and collaborative sessions with clients across the lifespan, Laura has worked as an adolescent intensive outpatient therapist and conducted interpersonal process groups for all-girls’ and co-ed therapy groups. Topics addressed included body image, bullying, family dynamics, sexual identity and peer relationships. After two group sessions, the girls voted to extend their group length by an extra hour! Laura has treated young women with ASD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, adjustment disorder, sexual abuse, and traumatic loss.
Laura recently moved to Utah, specifically to work as a therapist for Discovery Ranch for Girls, to pursue her passion and to incorporate horses into therapy with adolescent girls. She also has training in animal- assisted therapy through Harcum College and has plans to have her ragdoll cat, Miss Kay, and her “fat cat”, Bubba Gump, certified as a therapy animal for use in sessions.
In her free time, Laura enjoys riding horses and has been trained in English dressage and jumping. She had also been a member of and secretary for the Danville Community Band back in Pennsylvania and plays the flute. Camping, hiking, exploring, doing puzzles and playing strategy games with friends and family are also favorite hobbies.
Therapist
Jeron Parry received his Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Abilene Christian University, Texas. He has intensive training in family systems and has also been trained in over 21 hours of Brief Systemic Therapy from the Mental Research Institute. While in Texas he treated low-income families and couples who faced a variety of issues, while also working with girls who struggled with serious addictions of all kinds; especially eating disorders. Most recently he treated individuals, families, and groups at a residential treatment center for adolescent girls. This experience has taught him the great need we have to increase the empathy that we show and receive in order to eliminate feelings of loneliness and hopelessness. One of Jeron’s strengths is solution-focused brief therapy where he helps his clients create a new, more positive outlook while achieving their therapeutic goals and increasing hope, compassion, and self-efficacy. A passion of his is to see relationships strengthen and grow as his clients embrace their strengths and resources they may not have known they had. On his own time, he enjoys running long distances races, hiking, camping, movies, and most importantly playing and watching soccer.
Jeron Parry received his Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Abilene Christian University, Texas. He has intensive training in family systems and has also been trained in over 21 hours of Brief Systemic Therapy from the Mental Research Institute. While in Texas he treated low-income families and couples who faced a variety of issues, while also working with girls who struggled with serious addictions of all kinds; especially eating disorders. Most recently he treated individuals, families, and groups at a residential treatment center for adolescent girls. This experience has taught him the great need we have to increase the empathy that we show and receive in order to eliminate feelings of loneliness and hopelessness. One of Jeron’s strengths is solution-focused brief therapy where he helps his clients create a new, more positive outlook while achieving their therapeutic goals and increasing hope, compassion, and self-efficacy. A passion of his is to see relationships strengthen and grow as his clients embrace their strengths and resources they may not have known they had. On his own time, he enjoys running long distances races, hiking, camping, movies, and most importantly playing and watching soccer.
Therapist
Annette received her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Texas State University in San Marcos, TX. She has several years’ experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, women, and families in a variety of treatment settings; to include juvenile justice, schools, wilderness, residential, home-based and community-based programs.
Annette is well-versed in the area of trauma, specializing in the treatment of those who have experienced complex trauma, primarily in the form of sexual and/or physical abuse. She has provided professional trainings and workshops on trauma-informed adventure therapy and the use of adventure therapy with diverse populations.
Annette works through a strength-based lens, recognizing everyone has strengths to draw from. She utilizes a combination of trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy, reality therapy, motivational interviewing, and experiential/adventure-based interventions. She has extensive training in Reality Therapy and is in the process of becoming certified through the William Glasser Institute.
Annette believes in the importance of developing trusting, collaborative relationships with clients, while also challenging them to take risks in order to achieve their therapeutic goals and to help them make the changes necessary to live a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.
During Annette’s off time, she enjoys hiking, rock climbing, and camping with her family and friends.
Annette received her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Texas State University in San Marcos, TX. She has several years’ experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, women, and families in a variety of treatment settings; to include juvenile justice, schools, wilderness, residential, home-based and community-based programs.
Annette is well-versed in the area of trauma, specializing in the treatment of those who have experienced complex trauma, primarily in the form of sexual and/or physical abuse. She has provided professional trainings and workshops on trauma-informed adventure therapy and the use of adventure therapy with diverse populations.
Annette works through a strength-based lens, recognizing everyone has strengths to draw from. She utilizes a combination of trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy, reality therapy, motivational interviewing, and experiential/adventure-based interventions. She has extensive training in Reality Therapy and is in the process of becoming certified through the William Glasser Institute.
Annette believes in the importance of developing trusting, collaborative relationships with clients, while also challenging them to take risks in order to achieve their therapeutic goals and to help them make the changes necessary to live a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.
During Annette’s off time, she enjoys hiking, rock climbing, and camping with her family and friends.
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DISCOVERY RANCH FOR GIRLS MEDICAL STAFF
DRG Nurse
Paula Hensley graduated with an A.S.N. degree in nursing in 2001. She is certified in IV therapy, CPR, ACLS, and has a teaching endorsement from Weber State University. With over fifteen years experience in the nursing field, her scope of practice encompasses dialysis, medical/surgical, ICU/CUU, home health, hospice, and teaching. Prior to joining DRG, she worked as a nursing instructor at Dixie State University for 5 years teaching and mentoring young college students. Her philosophy in nursing revolves around compassion. She believes that to be effective in her role as a nurse, compassion, understanding, and tenacity is essential. Her goal is to deliver quality care with utmost respect and patience for all individuals. Paula is a member of the Utah Nurses Association (UTA) and the American Nurses Association (ANA).
Paula Hensley graduated with an A.S.N. degree in nursing in 2001. She is certified in IV therapy, CPR, ACLS, and has a teaching endorsement from Weber State University. With over fifteen years experience in the nursing field, her scope of practice encompasses dialysis, medical/surgical, ICU/CUU, home health, hospice, and teaching. Prior to joining DRG, she worked as a nursing instructor at Dixie State University for 5 years teaching and mentoring young college students. Her philosophy in nursing revolves around compassion. She believes that to be effective in her role as a nurse, compassion, understanding, and tenacity is essential. Her goal is to deliver quality care with utmost respect and patience for all individuals. Paula is a member of the Utah Nurses Association (UTA) and the American Nurses Association (ANA).
Her heart is in volunteering especially when it comes to children. She has played the leadership role in establishing the PTA at a new school in Iron County and served as president of the organization while going on to work at the PTA district level. Currently, she volunteers at Gateway Preparatory Academy for the honor society and as the fundraising chair of the drama department at Cedar High School. She is a native Californian and loves living in Southern Utah with her two intelligent and beautiful children that challenge her every day as a parent. Paula enjoys traveling, the beach, boating, theater arts, riding dirt bikes and spending time with family.
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Psychiatrist
Dr. Williams is a highly trained child & adolescent psychiatrist with board certification in the fields of General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. While not currently practicing pediatrics he is also board certified as a pediatrician and has fellowship training in child abuse and neglect. He has trained with prominent national leaders and approaches psychiatry from a developmental perspective, seeing in his patients not only their current difficulties but also their long-term potential. He has focused his career on treating severe but correctable maladies. He views medication as an important tool in treatment but one that is best used temporarily, while internal regulatory capacities are developed. Personally, Dr. Williams is a true academic, who enjoys learning about the complexities of life in general and the human experience more specifically.
Dr. Williams is a highly trained child & adolescent psychiatrist with board certification in the fields of General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. While not currently practicing pediatrics he is also board certified as a pediatrician and has fellowship training in child abuse and neglect. He has trained with prominent national leaders and approaches psychiatry from a developmental perspective, seeing in his patients not only their current difficulties but also their long-term potential. He has focused his career on treating severe but correctable maladies. He views medication as an important tool in treatment but one that is best used temporarily, while internal regulatory capacities are developed. Personally, Dr. Williams is a true academic, who enjoys learning about the complexities of life in general and the human experience more specifically.
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DISCOVERY RANCH FOR GIRLS RESIDENTIAL AND MANAGMENT STAFF
Office Manager
Janet is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She and her husband David, who also works for Discovery Ranch for Girls, have lived in Cedar City, Utah for the past 15 years. They have 2 daughters and 4 granddaughters. Janet joined Discovery Ranch for Girls after serving as the office administrator at The Midwest Center for Attacking Anxiety and Depression. Janet is the office manager at the ranch and with her southern accent and readiness to help offers a warm welcome to all our guests and residents. She loves to hold “crawfish boils”, spend time with her family, and spoil her cat, Bob! She and David have been married for 32 years.
Janet is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She and her husband David, who also works for Discovery Ranch for Girls, have lived in Cedar City, Utah for the past 15 years. They have 2 daughters and 4 granddaughters. Janet joined Discovery Ranch for Girls after serving as the office administrator at The Midwest Center for Attacking Anxiety and Depression. Janet is the office manager at the ranch and with her southern accent and readiness to help offers a warm welcome to all our guests and residents. She loves to hold “crawfish boils”, spend time with her family, and spoil her cat, Bob! She and David have been married for 32 years.
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Maintenance Supervisor
David is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He has lived in Utah for the past 15 years with his wife Janet and two daughters. For the past 13 years, David has created all the landscaping on the property along with maintaining it for the previous owners. Discovery Ranch for Girls invited him to stay on and continue keeping the grounds looking like a tranquil resort with the flowing streams and beautifully trimmed green lawns. Being from Louisiana, David is a die-hard LSU fan! From time to time, you may even see an LSU Tiger flag flying above his residence. His favorite past times are golf, playing with his grandchildren, starting new landscaping projects on the ranch and of course Cajun food!
David is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He has lived in Utah for the past 15 years with his wife Janet and two daughters. For the past 13 years, David has created all the landscaping on the property along with maintaining it for the previous owners. Discovery Ranch for Girls invited him to stay on and continue keeping the grounds looking like a tranquil resort with the flowing streams and beautifully trimmed green lawns. Being from Louisiana, David is a die-hard LSU fan! From time to time, you may even see an LSU Tiger flag flying above his residence. His favorite past times are golf, playing with his grandchildren, starting new landscaping projects on the ranch and of course Cajun food!
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Program Coordinator
David Cacamis grew up on the Gulf coast in Southern Alabama and received a BA in Psychology from the University of South Alabama. During his undergrad, he worked at an outpatient facility with at-risk youth and realized he was getting very close to figuring out what he wanted to devote his life to! After graduating, David traveled out West and fell in love with the diverse environment he found here. A couple years later he was invited to participate in training at Redcliff Ascent, a wilderness program and sister company to Discovery Ranch for Girls. After working at Redcliff Ascent for a few years Dave decided it was time to pursue more education, and began classes at Southern Utah University in Cedar City, UT. Due to conflicting schedule, he had to leave Redcliff. Discovery Ranch for Girls was the perfect fit to work around his school schedule yet stay in the field of youth therapy. Dave intends on obtaining a Masters degree in Social Work and will continue to work with young people.
David Cacamis grew up on the Gulf coast in Southern Alabama and received a BA in Psychology from the University of South Alabama. During his undergrad, he worked at an outpatient facility with at-risk youth and realized he was getting very close to figuring out what he wanted to devote his life to! After graduating, David traveled out West and fell in love with the diverse environment he found here. A couple years later he was invited to participate in training at Redcliff Ascent, a wilderness program and sister company to Discovery Ranch for Girls. After working at Redcliff Ascent for a few years Dave decided it was time to pursue more education, and began classes at Southern Utah University in Cedar City, UT. Due to conflicting schedule, he had to leave Redcliff. Discovery Ranch for Girls was the perfect fit to work around his school schedule yet stay in the field of youth therapy. Dave intends on obtaining a Masters degree in Social Work and will continue to work with young people.
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Program Coordinator
Alexis grew up in Springville, UT, as the oldest of five children. She has several family members that work in this field who have mentored her and helped lead her down her path to study Psychology at Southern Utah University. She plans to continue her education by getting a Master’s degree in school counseling. She has worked at Discovery Ranch for a year and really enjoys spending time with girls and working as part of the Discovery Ranch team. She loves camping, boating, playing sports, and just about anything to do with being outdoors, as well as spending quality time with family and friends.
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DISCOVERY RANCH CHEF & CULINARY ARTS STAFF
Executive Chef
Jerry L. Mitchell was interested in food many years before he started his career in the food business. It all started sixteen years prior to attending culinary school when he married his wife Pam and began cooking as a hobby. In 1985, when he had the opportunity for a career change, he attended Tante Marie’s Cooking School in San Francisco. Within his first month after completing his training, he became an executive chef at Savories Gourmet and Fine Wines in Corte Madera, California. This was one of the upstart businesses for the concept of gourmet delis, similar to delis like Whole Foods today. From there he managed the catering and restaurants for the members of the Corinthian Yacht Club in Tiburon, California. After his tenure there, he was hired as executive chef at the Ramp Restaurant in San Francisco where he designed a newly remodeled kitchen and menu resulting in brunch that evolved from 100 covers per weekend day to 500 covers. The restaurant consultant who had recommended him for the Ramp then hired him to help open a new restaurant on California Street, The Curbside Cafe in which he designed a menu which many components are still in use to this day. After his 10 year tenure as executive chef for the Curbside, Jerry started to work with three catering companies in the Bay area, and many other aspects of the food business including cafeteria management and management of large volume soup production at the now popular Good Earth Natural Foods in Fairfax, California. In all Jerry has almost thirty years of experience serving in various executive chef and food service management positions. He has created many entrees, salads, and deserts during his career. He has worked many catered functions involving top names in the bay area such as Robin Williams, Bon Jovi, George Lucas and Michael Savage to name a few. He constantly researches and looks to new trends in the food business focusing highly on nutrition and health. He is happy to be a part of Discovery Ranch for Girls where he is able to apply his accumulated knowledge in creating great food and a pleasant atmosphere for the girls.
Jerry L. Mitchell was interested in food many years before he started his career in the food business. It all started sixteen years prior to attending culinary school when he married his wife Pam and began cooking as a hobby. In 1985, when he had the opportunity for a career change, he attended Tante Marie’s Cooking School in San Francisco. Within his first month after completing his training, he became an executive chef at Savories Gourmet and Fine Wines in Corte Madera, California. This was one of the upstart businesses for the concept of gourmet delis, similar to delis like Whole Foods today. From there he managed the catering and restaurants for the members of the Corinthian Yacht Club in Tiburon, California. After his tenure there, he was hired as executive chef at the Ramp Restaurant in San Francisco where he designed a newly remodeled kitchen and menu resulting in brunch that evolved from 100 covers per weekend day to 500 covers. The restaurant consultant who had recommended him for the Ramp then hired him to help open a new restaurant on California Street, The Curbside Cafe in which he designed a menu which many components are still in use to this day. After his 10 year tenure as executive chef for the Curbside, Jerry started to work with three catering companies in the Bay area, and many other aspects of the food business including cafeteria management and management of large volume soup production at the now popular Good Earth Natural Foods in Fairfax, California. In all Jerry has almost thirty years of experience serving in various executive chef and food service management positions. He has created many entrees, salads, and deserts during his career. He has worked many catered functions involving top names in the bay area such as Robin Williams, Bon Jovi, George Lucas and Michael Savage to name a few. He constantly researches and looks to new trends in the food business focusing highly on nutrition and health. He is happy to be a part of Discovery Ranch for Girls where he is able to apply his accumulated knowledge in creating great food and a pleasant atmosphere for the girls.
Chef Assistant
Kris is originally from Corona California, moving to Utah in 2009. She loves her new laid-back lifestyle which allows her to spend more time with her children. Kris has 2 grown daughters and 1 high school age son. Her previous background in the grocery wholesale business as a Buyer brings organization and inside knowledge of running the administrative side of the kitchen at DRG. She considers it a real privilege to cook for and serve these girls. They touch her heart each day! Her hobbies include reading, exploring new hiking trails & taking in plenty of Cedar High football games, GO REDMEN!
Kris is originally from Corona California, moving to Utah in 2009. She loves her new laid-back lifestyle which allows her to spend more time with her children. Kris has 2 grown daughters and 1 high school age son. Her previous background in the grocery wholesale business as a Buyer brings organization and inside knowledge of running the administrative side of the kitchen at DRG. She considers it a real privilege to cook for and serve these girls. They touch her heart each day! Her hobbies include reading, exploring new hiking trails & taking in plenty of Cedar High football games, GO REDMEN!
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Chef Assistant
Gennyfère was born and raised in the suburbs of Paris France. A deep passion for the culinary arts was literally passed to her through her genes. Thanks in great part to her paternal grandmother who was a master in the kitchen. She specialized in cooking true French cuisine with products purchased fresh from French farmers and fishermen at local marchées. She taught Gen how to use fresh fish, vegetables, meat, and herbs and how each texture and flavor worked together. Thanks to branches of her family that originated near Paris, in the Brittany region of Western France, and in Mediterranean regions of Southern France, her foundation is a mix of classic French cuisine and regional specialties. While still in France her “savoir-faire” was perfected under the tutelage of French Grand Chef, Christophe Raoux. For Gen, the “joy of life” is born in the kitchen. Gen never imagined that her cooking adventures would take her outside of her native France, but life led her to Utah where she now lives and shares her gift and talent for cooking and “the joy of life.”
Gennyfère was born and raised in the suburbs of Paris France. A deep passion for the culinary arts was literally passed to her through her genes. Thanks in great part to her paternal grandmother who was a master in the kitchen. She specialized in cooking true French cuisine with products purchased fresh from French farmers and fishermen at local marchées. She taught Gen how to use fresh fish, vegetables, meat, and herbs and how each texture and flavor worked together. Thanks to branches of her family that originated near Paris, in the Brittany region of Western France, and in Mediterranean regions of Southern France, her foundation is a mix of classic French cuisine and regional specialties. While still in France her “savoir-faire” was perfected under the tutelage of French Grand Chef, Christophe Raoux. For Gen, the “joy of life” is born in the kitchen. Gen never imagined that her cooking adventures would take her outside of her native France, but life led her to Utah where she now lives and shares her gift and talent for cooking and “the joy of life.”
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DISCOVERY RANCH FOR GIRLS HORSES
Equine Team – (Level, Beginner)
Cali is a prime example of the saying “Great things come in small packages”. Cali is one of the favorite horses to trail ride and learn to gallop on. She makes up the third part of our grounds group. Cali shows patience and yet requires that her girls come to her using respect, love, and clear communication. Stubborn is another one of Cali’s greatest traits. When a girl tries to push or asks Cali to do what they want, Cali provides them with responses to let the girl know how ineffective their approaches are in that moment.
Cali is a prime example of the saying “Great things come in small packages”. Cali is one of the favorite horses to trail ride and learn to gallop on. She makes up the third part of our grounds group. Cali shows patience and yet requires that her girls come to her using respect, love, and clear communication. Stubborn is another one of Cali’s greatest traits. When a girl tries to push or asks Cali to do what they want, Cali provides them with responses to let the girl know how ineffective their approaches are in that moment.
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Equine Team – (Level, Beginner)
Jazz comes to the ranch with many years of experience working with teenagers. In her youth, she was a champion cutter. Jazz is an essential part of DRG’s equine program she is the leader (alpha) of our grounds group. Jazz is truly a therapist at heart. She is understanding, patient, tolerant and a caretaker for any girl who needs support. She takes our girls into her loving arms and when it is all said and done Jazz has made a friend for life. Girls feel they are invincible when they ride Jazz because she has the ability to make them believe in their fullest potential. Jazz will never let your child cheat or cut corners. She always expects them to communicate well, set firm boundaries and give her respect in return. The girls don’t complain much by what Jazz expects because when it is all said and done they know she will reward them with the gift of self.
Jazz comes to the ranch with many years of experience working with teenagers. In her youth, she was a champion cutter. Jazz is an essential part of DRG’s equine program she is the leader (alpha) of our grounds group. Jazz is truly a therapist at heart. She is understanding, patient, tolerant and a caretaker for any girl who needs support. She takes our girls into her loving arms and when it is all said and done Jazz has made a friend for life. Girls feel they are invincible when they ride Jazz because she has the ability to make them believe in their fullest potential. Jazz will never let your child cheat or cut corners. She always expects them to communicate well, set firm boundaries and give her respect in return. The girls don’t complain much by what Jazz expects because when it is all said and done they know she will reward them with the gift of self.
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Equine Team – (Level, Beginner)
Cash is Jazz’s best friend and teammate in our grounds group. She too has had extensive experience working with teenagers and in her youth was also a champion cutter. Cash is patient, understanding and does a good job taking care of those who are new to riding. She is wonderful when working with girls due to her ability to mirror the emotions which the girls bring into Equine. Cash understands the importance of healthy relationships and will help your child learn about respect, firm boundaries, and clear communication. If your child or others are struggling and bringing anger or frustration to the group, Cash mirrors such. Cash is really good about allowing your child to see just what it is like to be a parent dealing with an out of hand teenager. She will act out and this in part helps us be able to discuss aspects of home life that a lot of students never wish to look at.
Cash is Jazz’s best friend and teammate in our grounds group. She too has had extensive experience working with teenagers and in her youth was also a champion cutter. Cash is patient, understanding and does a good job taking care of those who are new to riding. She is wonderful when working with girls due to her ability to mirror the emotions which the girls bring into Equine. Cash understands the importance of healthy relationships and will help your child learn about respect, firm boundaries, and clear communication. If your child or others are struggling and bringing anger or frustration to the group, Cash mirrors such. Cash is really good about allowing your child to see just what it is like to be a parent dealing with an out of hand teenager. She will act out and this in part helps us be able to discuss aspects of home life that a lot of students never wish to look at.
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Equine Team – (Level, Beginner)
Lil’ Bit is a retired cow wrangler and rodeo performer; this wonderful spirited old girl (20 + years) has become a very versatile part of our program. A great teacher and leader, this multi-talented horse can do it all. She is a true competitor, always leaving her heart out on the field even when her body might not always cooperate. Lil’ Bit plays an important part of our grounds group and is often used to help students who lack trust and confidence in themselves. Lil’ Bit has the ability to gain trust from anyone. She wraps a student into her love and together they work through difficulties. Lil’ Bit is what some would call a true miracle worker. She has been able to get results where others have failed. Lil’ Bits has physical ailments which have helped some students get out of the “all about me” phase. Because of their love of her, they have been able to see people/horses as living breathing entities, not objects. Lil’ Bit’s personality allows the girls to learn to love and care for another. After all of the hard work is said and done, the miracle can be seen. It is truly remarkable to witness Lil’ Bit and the student chasing cows. One would have a difficult time determining who is laughing harder, the student or Lil’ Bit.
Lil’ Bit is a retired cow wrangler and rodeo performer; this wonderful spirited old girl (20 + years) has become a very versatile part of our program. A great teacher and leader, this multi-talented horse can do it all. She is a true competitor, always leaving her heart out on the field even when her body might not always cooperate. Lil’ Bit plays an important part of our grounds group and is often used to help students who lack trust and confidence in themselves. Lil’ Bit has the ability to gain trust from anyone. She wraps a student into her love and together they work through difficulties. Lil’ Bit is what some would call a true miracle worker. She has been able to get results where others have failed. Lil’ Bits has physical ailments which have helped some students get out of the “all about me” phase. Because of their love of her, they have been able to see people/horses as living breathing entities, not objects. Lil’ Bit’s personality allows the girls to learn to love and care for another. After all of the hard work is said and done, the miracle can be seen. It is truly remarkable to witness Lil’ Bit and the student chasing cows. One would have a difficult time determining who is laughing harder, the student or Lil’ Bit.
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Equine Team – (medium – advanced)
Cloud – Loves to push boundaries and will walk on anyone who doesn’t set one for themselves. She is high strung and her favorite gear is full throttle. Cloud loves to be in the middle of everything going on and at times forgets that she might be invading another’s personal space. In a student’s effort to work with Cloud on her issues, they better learn how to manage their own.
Cloud – Loves to push boundaries and will walk on anyone who doesn’t set one for themselves. She is high strung and her favorite gear is full throttle. Cloud loves to be in the middle of everything going on and at times forgets that she might be invading another’s personal space. In a student’s effort to work with Cloud on her issues, they better learn how to manage their own.
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Equine Team – (Medium)
Chief – One of the few males in our program, could best be described as “Goofy.” Chief loves to be with others but when it comes to doing the work he would rather sit/stand. Impatience is also a difficulty of Chief’s which often gets him into trouble. If you aren’t careful he will literally dig a hole to China – ok, not really – but he has dug some really deep holes. He loves to push buttons and if he can get out of doing something he will. Chief can often be described as one who works harder to get out of the work instead of just doing what is being asked of him. Like some teens, he loves to do things his way and he will argue and push back if others don’t keep boundaries and communicate their expectations. Chief will sometimes get you to believe he is going to do it your way, only to push your buttons and you are right back in the middle of what seems like another battle.
Chief – One of the few males in our program, could best be described as “Goofy.” Chief loves to be with others but when it comes to doing the work he would rather sit/stand. Impatience is also a difficulty of Chief’s which often gets him into trouble. If you aren’t careful he will literally dig a hole to China – ok, not really – but he has dug some really deep holes. He loves to push buttons and if he can get out of doing something he will. Chief can often be described as one who works harder to get out of the work instead of just doing what is being asked of him. Like some teens, he loves to do things his way and he will argue and push back if others don’t keep boundaries and communicate their expectations. Chief will sometimes get you to believe he is going to do it your way, only to push your buttons and you are right back in the middle of what seems like another battle.
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Equine Team – (Advanced)
Tex – Another of our males, came to work here at DRG with his own history of abuse and maltreatment. Not much is known specifically about Tex’s abuse other than it left this beautiful horse, with little to no belief in himself. Tex resembles a lot of the girls who come here to DRG; two individuals who are very capable, yet unable to see their full potential. Tex needs the belief, the trust and vision of another to live up to his potential. His struggles allow him to help our girls. It is wonderful to see how the two grow together. The miracle doesn’t just happen in an instant. It takes a lot of time, patience, and understanding based on a strong foundation of respect. Tex pays off your daughter’s willingness and determination handsomely with what can only be described as the “perfect ride.”
Tex – Another of our males, came to work here at DRG with his own history of abuse and maltreatment. Not much is known specifically about Tex’s abuse other than it left this beautiful horse, with little to no belief in himself. Tex resembles a lot of the girls who come here to DRG; two individuals who are very capable, yet unable to see their full potential. Tex needs the belief, the trust and vision of another to live up to his potential. His struggles allow him to help our girls. It is wonderful to see how the two grow together. The miracle doesn’t just happen in an instant. It takes a lot of time, patience, and understanding based on a strong foundation of respect. Tex pays off your daughter’s willingness and determination handsomely with what can only be described as the “perfect ride.”
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Equine Team – (medium- advanced)
Carmel is a 5 year old female and a true teenager at heart. She loves to have things her way. Carmel could be described as being nosy; she loves being the center of attention and can be quite dramatic. She often invites herself to situations without having been asked. If she could talk, I think she would say she hates boundaries and rules. Carmel argues. She pushes limits and rebels against anyone who tries to use a heavy hand. She resembles so many of our girls and it is interesting to watch as the girls learn about themselves through the struggles they have in working with her.
Carmel is a 5 year old female and a true teenager at heart. She loves to have things her way. Carmel could be described as being nosy; she loves being the center of attention and can be quite dramatic. She often invites herself to situations without having been asked. If she could talk, I think she would say she hates boundaries and rules. Carmel argues. She pushes limits and rebels against anyone who tries to use a heavy hand. She resembles so many of our girls and it is interesting to watch as the girls learn about themselves through the struggles they have in working with her.
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Equine Team – (Level, TBD)
Quigley and Lightning are two new recruits to our Equine program. Their personalities, mannerisms and gifts are still being discovered. Future Bio’s on these two horses are TBA.
Quigley and Lightning are two new recruits to our Equine program. Their personalities, mannerisms and gifts are still being discovered. Future Bio’s on these two horses are TBA.
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Equine Team – (Level, TBD)
Quigley and Lightning are two new recruits to our Equine program. Their personalities, mannerisms and gifts are still being discovered. Future Bio’s on these two horses are TBA.
Quigley and Lightning are two new recruits to our Equine program. Their personalities, mannerisms and gifts are still being discovered. Future Bio’s on these two horses are TBA.
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Equine Team – (Level, Beginner)
Easter Bunny (EB) and Chocolat came to DRG from a loving family that raised them from babies. These previous owners described EB and Chocolat’s journey through life.
“It all started with our love for the American Plains Indians…. a long time ago in the Palouse River Valley in Washington State lived the Nez Perce Indians and their Appaloosa horses. How beautiful were these brightly colored horses that these native people bred and revered…in honor of this we just had to have a couple of these Appaloosa horses for ourselves.
We have raised EB and Chocolat since they were yearlings and we have thoroughly enjoyed them and they have brought much love and beauty into our lives for the past 16 years. They are half brothers having the same Sire and are both very sweet and people oriented. I could always put our friends and loved ones on these two horses during trail rides because they have always been so gentle. EB has always looked to Chocolate as the leader. EB is very eager when it comes to saying Hi and wondering what you’re doing all the time and has a very loving personality. Chocolat is a little bit more mischievous and has what looks like a small bite out of one of his ears which means he probably put his nose where he shouldn’t have when he was a youngster. Their father was a tri-colored Appaloosa meaning he was brown and black and white, therefore Chocolat has one black spot on him and EB has one brown spot on him.”
Easter Bunny (EB) and Chocolat came to DRG from a loving family that raised them from babies. These previous owners described EB and Chocolat’s journey through life.
“It all started with our love for the American Plains Indians…. a long time ago in the Palouse River Valley in Washington State lived the Nez Perce Indians and their Appaloosa horses. How beautiful were these brightly colored horses that these native people bred and revered…in honor of this we just had to have a couple of these Appaloosa horses for ourselves.
We have raised EB and Chocolat since they were yearlings and we have thoroughly enjoyed them and they have brought much love and beauty into our lives for the past 16 years. They are half brothers having the same Sire and are both very sweet and people oriented. I could always put our friends and loved ones on these two horses during trail rides because they have always been so gentle. EB has always looked to Chocolate as the leader. EB is very eager when it comes to saying Hi and wondering what you’re doing all the time and has a very loving personality. Chocolat is a little bit more mischievous and has what looks like a small bite out of one of his ears which means he probably put his nose where he shouldn’t have when he was a youngster. Their father was a tri-colored Appaloosa meaning he was brown and black and white, therefore Chocolat has one black spot on him and EB has one brown spot on him.”
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DISCOVERY RANCH FOR GIRLS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DISCOVERY RANCH STAGES A POWERFUL SUPPORT SYSTEM AROUND
YOUR DAUGHTER FOR HEALTH AND SUCCESS
With over 20 years of experience in the industry we pride ourselves on making a difference in the lives of the young men and women we work with.
A little over 20 years ago a small group of our founders began working with adolescent youth in a program in their area. On weekends they would take some of the youth up to their family ranch to work and stay busy. As time passed they noticed that the experiences, outdoor time and hard work actually facilitated therapeutic opportunities that led to helping some of those youth towards a faster more lasting path to healing. This discovery helped springboard what has become a successful family of programs that share a philosophy of Experiential Therapy and a continuum of care. Today our family of companies are still privately owned and operated by the very same group of founders.
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THERE ARE MANY LAYERS TO SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT AND RECOVERY
- Your daughters needs are at the CENTER of our focus.
- We provide a level of care that goes beyond most treatment facilities.
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WHY CHOOSE US
- Discovery Ranch for Girls is a private, highly focused residential treatment program, where limited spaces available leads to increased therapy and enhanced experiences.
- Experienced therapists – specialists in dealing with your daughter’s specific problems – in a location that facilitates year-round experiential opportunities.
- Excellent track record, proven programs, accredited education program.
- Parent involvement second to none! You are not alone! We will be working with you the entire time your daughter is in our program. From weekly calls with your daughter’s therapist to progress reports, weekly photos, and parallel assignments and work, you will progress along with your daughter as your feedback and input/involvement is a critical component to the success of the program for your daughter!
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“I don’t think we could have designed or built a more perfect place for girls to come and to heal and to have treatment and to have fun while they are doing it!”
Andrea Burgess - Executive Director
