Meet Your Team of Teen Therapists
& Mental Health Specialists

Leadership Team

Andrea Burgess

Andrea Burgess

Executive Director
Jennifer Hedrick, MS, LCMHC

Jennifer Hedrick, MS, LCMHC

Associate Executive Director, Clinical Director
Sarah Yardley

Sarah Yardley

Admissions Director
Rashell Stubbs, LCMHC

Rashell Stubbs, LCMHC

Associate Clinical Director
Chase Morgan

Chase Morgan

Residential Director
Janet McGrew

Janet McGrew

HR Director
Lee Bingham

Lee Bingham

Equine Director
Elizabeth Grant, M.Ed

Elizabeth Grant, M.Ed

Academic Director
David Mosse

David Mosse

Recreation Director
Nate Marble

Nate Marble

Preforming Arts Director
Kim Mayne

Kim Mayne

Admissions Coordinator
Bre Englebrecht

Bre Englebrecht

Director of Utilization Review

Andrea Burgess

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 a 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.

Jennifer Hedrick, MS, LCMHC

Associate Executive Director, Clinical Director

Originally from Southern California, Jennifer came to Utah to attend both undergraduate and graduate school. She comes to Discovery Ranch South, after being an integral part of Moonridge Academy and RedCliff Ascent Wilderness Therapy where she served as Clinical Director in both programs. Prior to joining her previous teams, she spent 19 years in academia working in student development and counseling. While her experience has been diverse, Jennifer found her passion for working with teens in 2008. She finds joy in helping young people gain confidence in the understanding and expression of personal emotions. She enjoys helping teens navigate the difficult journey of self-discovery. Along that road, she finds opportunities to help with the following:
  • Learning to integrate traumatic experiences into life, as well as letting go of the pain associated with these experiences (trauma recovery).
  • Learning to achieve a positive self-identity as an LGBTQ+ teen.
  • Gaining a positive body image and learning to have a healthy relationship with food.
  • Learning to navigate relationships with a definite sense of self and appropriate boundaries.
Jennifer not only loves working with youth but believes that strong family work is an integral part of the change process. She is trained in EMDR and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. Jennifer likes to utilize experiential approaches in therapy including improv, sociometry, sandtray therapy, and psychodrama.Jennifer loves to help educate young people and their parents on how the nervous system impacts their responses to stressful situations and then help them gain tools to feel more in control.Jennifer loves laughing, traveling, trying new and exciting foods and exploring the outdoors. Her newest adventure is navigating the waters of being an empty nester.

Sarah Yardley

Admissions Director

Sarah began working at Discovery Ranch for Girls in 2015 as a Residential Mentor. She is glad for her time spent working directly with students and grateful for all that she has learned from her various positions. She has thoroughly enjoyed working with families in Admissions and is happy that she gets to continue in that role as the Admissions Director.Sarah herself is a mother and feels that she can put herself in the shoes of the parents who are making the difficult decision to place their child in a treatment facility. Her favorite part of working at Discovery Ranch for Girls is seeing the progress in the girls’ relationships, and the change in their demeanor as they go through the program and become strong, purposeful young women.

Rashell Stubbs, LCMHC

Associate Clinical Director

Rashell has been with Discovery Ranch South since 2017 and became Assistant Clinical Director in 2021. Prior to joining the Discovery Ranch South team Rashell worked with adolescents since 2005 as a residential staff and therapist. Rashell graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling in 2008. She has worked primarily with adolescents during her career.She has experience working with youth who experience depression, anxiety, attachment challenges, trauma, and those with Autism. Rashell has completed the Level 1 Intensive Training for Radically Open DBT, and Phase 1 of Brainspotting. Rashell currently leads the RO DBT group and a Horsemanship Group.Rashell loves working at Discovery Ranch South. She loves to see the healing of the students and families. She is grateful and appreciates the opportunity to be a part of this process in the lives of students. Rashell’s background includes riding horses and raising livestock. Naturally one of her favorite things about Discovery Ranch South is the calf and equine program.Rashell is married, has three daughters and a dog, Posh, who comes to work with her each day. Outside of life at Discovery Ranch South, you will find Rashell spending time with her family at their cabin, on the lake, golfing or hiking in the many places that Southern Utah has to offer.

Chase Morgan

Residential Director

Chase was very fortunate to start in this field as a struggling 17-year-old kid looking for a mentor and something to be passionate about. Wilderness therapy was Chase’s first stop and was truly a transcendental experience for him. Chase has an enormous love for this line of work and the ability that it has in creating change in everyone involved. Chase's biggest belief is the power a mentor, strong, healthy relationships, and accountability can have on anyone, especially youth. Taking a very relational approach to his work, Chase has always been very relatable to the students he works with. Being able to understand and relate to a vast variety of the same struggles as a lot of the students he works with has been able to help him continue to grow, learn, and teach. Chase believes that with great rapport and trust, he can use his experience to continue to coach and train new staff, and has the ability to find those staff with the passion for this industry, and help them grow. His love and passion can be felt the moment you talk with Chase about this line of work and he passes that on to others he works with. In his spare time you will find Chase cheering for the Eagles, Yankees, and Mavericks, hanging out with his brother, learning more about Eastern Psychology, and continuing to grow and learn.

Janet McGrew

HR Director

Janet is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She and her husband David, who also works for Discovery Ranch South, have lived in Cedar City, Utah for the past 15 years. They have 2 daughters and 4 granddaughters. Janet joined Discovery Ranch South after serving as the office administrator at The Midwest Center for Attacking Anxiety and Depression. Janet is the HR Director 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.

Lee Bingham

Equine Director

Lee Bingham is the Equine Director at Discovery Ranch South. Equine therapy can be a strong part of your teen's healing journey. There are many experiential learning opportunities at our more than 60 acre location! The students will have the chance to work with horses, calves, cooking, swimming, fishing, boating, climbing and ropes courses, yoga, hiking, winter activities and so much more.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. Lee volunteers throughout the state offering private goat tying lessons to youth.She earned her bachelor's 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 students 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 students 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–

Elizabeth Grant, M.Ed

Academic Director

Elizabeth Grant is thrilled to join the fantastic team at Discovery Ranch South as the Academic Director. She has been working to improve learning and lives for students with learning differences, giftedness and 2E (twice exceptional) for more than thirteen years in California and Colorado. Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Science in Mild/Moderate Special Education from Brigham Young University and earned a Master of Education in Prevention Science Practice from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education. Her particular focus has been on striving to mitigate anxiety in students with learning differences in order to support well-being and successful life transitions. Elizabeth is certified in Special Education, Gifted and Talented Education and Twice Exceptionality in the state of Colorado.Elizabeth loves to visit her four children who live throughout the US and France and she enjoys yoga, singing in choirs, cooking, hiking, art, gardening and exploring locally and going on worldwide adventures.

David Mosse

Recreation Director

David has been a member of Discovery Ranch South's team since May of 2016. Initially, David came to work at Discovery Ranch South 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 Discovery Ranch for South. 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 teens at Discovery Ranch South.Prior to joining the team at Discovery Ranch South, 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, whitewater kayaking, canyoneering, skiing, backpacking, and canoeing. David, his wife, and their dog – in the fall of 2016 – paddled 2300 miles from the source of the Mississippi in Northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.

Nate Marble

Preforming Arts Director

Nate Marble is the Performing Arts Director here at Discovery Ranch South. He has been involved in theatre arts and performing arts training in Utah, Arizona, and Nevada since 2010.  Nate holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Classical Acting from Southern Utah University and a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance from the University of Nevada Las Vegas.  While at UNLV he taught on a collegiate level and developed a theatre arts program based on empathy, personal strengths, and realizing self-potential and character through the arts.   Along with theatre arts, Nate has a background in music, dance, film, stage combat, directing, producing, theatre tech and voice acting.  He enjoys that "click" moment when students can see that acting is more than just getting on stage and presenting a role, it's being able to master your own emotions and actions in order to put yourself in someone else's shoes and portray their point of view even though it might be separate from your own.  He and his wife Katie spend most of their time chasing around their 4 daughters with all of their school activities.

Kim Mayne

Admissions Coordinator

Kim began working at Discovery Ranch South in May of 2023 as part of the residential staff team. She joined the admissions team a couple of months later. Prior to joining Discovery Ranch, she had worked in other facilities as both residential and academic staff. She spent many years working in medical offices as well. Kim loves working with both the students and their families. As a mother and grandmother, she feels like she can understand how difficult the decision to place a child in a treatment facility can be. It is her sincere hope that she will be able to help in making that process just a little easier.Outside of Discovery Ranch South, Kim enjoys spending time with her family enjoying the wonderful outdoor world that Southern Utah has to offer.

Bre Englebrecht

Director of Utilization Review

Bre has worked in Behavioral Health for over 15 years. She has an extensive Utilization Review background working with some of the leading mental health organizations nationwide such as Newport Academy and Embark BH. Bre has served in various leadership capacities over the years and took part in building multiple short- and long-term programs as well as assisted with Joint Commission accreditations, audits, etc. She finds great joy serving others and has a growth mindset. She is passionate about advocating for insurance coverage and being a voice for clients and families alike. She is an active member in her community and enjoys volunteering with her children when able. Bre and her partner have three children and spend most of their time outdoors, hiking, fishing, off-roading and camping. Her greatest joy is when they are spending time together.

Clinical Team

Jennifer Hedrick, MS, LCMHC

Jennifer Hedrick, MS, LCMHC

Associate Executive Director, Clinical Director
Rashell Stubbs, LCMHC

Rashell Stubbs, LCMHC

Associate Clinical Director
Amanda Mosse, LCSW

Amanda Mosse, LCSW

Therapist
Patrick Dotson, LCSW

Patrick Dotson, LCSW

Therapist
Heather Ross, LCSW

Heather Ross, LCSW

Therapist
Morgan Scherschel, CMHC

Morgan Scherschel, CMHC

Therapist
Kate Brannan, LCMHC

Kate Brannan, LCMHC

Therapist
Stephanie Lozano, MFT Intern

Stephanie Lozano, MFT Intern

Therapist
Dawn Wright

Dawn Wright

Clinical Coordinator
Brett Talbot, Ph.D.

Brett Talbot, Ph.D.

Director of Research & Quality / Consulting Licensed Psychologist

Jennifer Hedrick, MS, LCMHC

Associate Executive Director, Clinical Director

Originally from Southern California, Jennifer came to Utah to attend both undergraduate and graduate school. She comes to Discovery Ranch South, after being an integral part of Moonridge Academy and RedCliff Ascent Wilderness Therapy where she served as Clinical Director in both programs. Prior to joining her previous teams, she spent 19 years in academia working in student development and counseling. While her experience has been diverse, Jennifer found her passion for working with teens in 2008. She finds joy in helping young people gain confidence in the understanding and expression of personal emotions. She enjoys helping teens navigate the difficult journey of self-discovery. Along that road, she finds opportunities to help with the following:
  • Learning to integrate traumatic experiences into life, as well as letting go of the pain associated with these experiences (trauma recovery).
  • Learning to achieve a positive self-identity as an LGBTQ+ teen.
  • Gaining a positive body image and learning to have a healthy relationship with food.
  • Learning to navigate relationships with a definite sense of self and appropriate boundaries.
Jennifer not only loves working with youth but believes that strong family work is an integral part of the change process. She is trained in EMDR and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. Jennifer likes to utilize experiential approaches in therapy including improv, sociometry, sandtray therapy, and psychodrama.Jennifer loves to help educate young people and their parents on how the nervous system impacts their responses to stressful situations and then help them gain tools to feel more in control.Jennifer loves laughing, traveling, trying new and exciting foods and exploring the outdoors. Her newest adventure is navigating the waters of being an empty nester.

Rashell Stubbs, LCMHC

Associate Clinical Director

Rashell has been with Discovery Ranch South since 2017 and became Assistant Clinical Director in 2021. Prior to joining the Discovery Ranch South team Rashell worked with adolescents since 2005 as a residential staff and therapist. Rashell graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling in 2008. She has worked primarily with adolescents during her career.She has experience working with youth who experience depression, anxiety, attachment challenges, trauma, and those with Autism. Rashell has completed the Level 1 Intensive Training for Radically Open DBT, and Phase 1 of Brainspotting. Rashell currently leads the RO DBT group and a Horsemanship Group.Rashell loves working at Discovery Ranch South. She loves to see the healing of the students and families. She is grateful and appreciates the opportunity to be a part of this process in the lives of students. Rashell’s background includes riding horses and raising livestock. Naturally one of her favorite things about Discovery Ranch South is the calf and equine program.Rashell is married, has three daughters and a dog, Posh, who comes to work with her each day. Outside of life at Discovery Ranch South, you will find Rashell spending time with her family at their cabin, on the lake, golfing or hiking in the many places that Southern Utah has to offer.

Amanda Mosse, LCSW

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 South 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 that supports and provides resources to homeless youth.

Patrick Dotson, LCSW

Therapist

Born and raised against the picturesque backdrop of Cedar City, Utah, Patrick is deeply rooted in the values of community and family. From a young age, his surroundings shaped a sense of connection and responsibility, a foundation that would later influence his career path. As life unfolded, Patrick embraced the role of a committed spouse, finding joy and fulfillment in his marriage, blessed with the love of five wonderful children. Patrick’s academic journey began at Southern Utah University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Years later, at Utah State University, Patrick embarked on a transformative journey, earning a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. Since 2014, Patrick has been dedicated to the practice, consistently driven by a passion for helping others navigate the challenges of life. As a therapist, Patrick has honed his skills through diverse experiences and continuous learning. Patrick’s commitment to excellence is reflected in his certifications as an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and HeartMath (neurofeedback) therapist. These specialized certifications underscore his dedication to employing cutting-edge, evidence-based therapeutic techniques in his practice. Patrick’s expertise extends across various domains, including addiction, attachment, family systems, depression, anxiety, experiential therapy, and group work. The extensive training in these areas allows him to approach therapy with a holistic perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental health and personal relationships. In the realm of addiction, Patrick has worked tirelessly to understand the nuances of this complex struggle, providing individuals with the support and tools needed for recovery. Patrick’s focus on attachment and family issues reflect a commitment to healing not only the individual but the broader context of their relationships and support systems. Addressing mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety, Patrick draws upon a wealth of knowledge and therapeutic modalities to tailor interventions to the unique needs of each client. The integration of experiential therapy allows for a dynamic and engaging approach, fostering personal growth and self-discovery. Group work holds a special place in Patrick’s practice, recognizing the power of shared experiences and communal support. Through carefully facilitated group sessions, Patrick creates an environment where individuals can connect, share, and learn from one another, enhancing the therapeutic process. In essence, Patrick’s professional journey is a testament to a lifelong commitment to the well-being of others. Grounded in the values instilled during his upbringing in Cedar City, Patrick’s path has been one of continuous growth, education, and service. As a therapist, Patrick is not only dedicated to alleviating immediate struggles but also fostering lasting transformations in the lives of those he has the privilege to assist. When Patrick is not at work, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family traveling either to sporting events or new places.

Heather Ross, LCSW

Therapist

Heather Ross received her Master’s degree in Social Work in 2017 from Edinboro University. Throughout her Undergraduate Education at the University of Utah, Heather expanded her expertise through field experience in a variety of roles supporting children, adolescents, adults, and people with disabilities. Before joining Discovery Ranch South, Heather worked as a manager, caseworker, social worker, mentor and recovery coach in outpatient, residential, and the foster care system providing a breadth of understanding to the range of challenges facing both the individuals and families seeking support. Her experience includes advocating for those working to overcome addiction, depression, substance misuse, trauma, anxiety, and domestic violence.When Heather isn’t working, she can often be found camping, reading, traveling and discovering new places, and spending time with her husband, daughter, and son.

Morgan Scherschel, CMHC

Therapist

Morgan received two Master’s degrees in Mental Health Counseling and Education from the University of Florida. She specializes in working with children, teens, and their families struggling with trauma, anger, anxiety, body image, developmental disabilities, disrupted attachments, substance abuse, autism spectrum disorder, and truancy in school and community settings. Morgan is versed in a variety of interventions including play-based therapies, trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, ecotherapy, art therapy, and relational therapies. Along with her clinical work she has experience as a supervisor, gymnastics coach, hall director, crisis intervention trainer, and collegiate competitive pole vaulter.Morgan is an explorer at heart and eagerly traded the beaches of Florida for the mountains of Utah. She enjoys hiking, rock climbing, swimming, team sports, board games, art and cosplaying with loved ones.

Kate Brannan, LCMHC

Therapist

Kate received her Bachelor's degree in Social Work in 2010 and worked as a Social Worker in community mental health settings while working on her master's degree. She received a Master’s degree in Counseling in 2014 from Saint Edward’s University in Austin, Texas and became a licensed counselor in 2015. Before coming to Discovery Ranch South, Kate worked with adults and teens suffering from severe mental illnesses in psychiatric hospitals, prisons, and community settings. Kate has experience providing individual, group, and family counseling in the areas of adjustment disorders, low self-esteem, body image and identity, gender dysphoria, suicidality, unhealthy relationships, anger, anxiety, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, major depression, and psychosis. Kate pulls from multiple modalities in therapy including trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, family systems, and experiential therapy. She also worked as an art teacher for five years and has experience working with adolescents who receive special education services for learning disabilities, autism and emotional disturbances. Kate firmly believes in showing up as her authentic self and guiding others to find their authentic selves. She is passionate about helping others find their truth and learn how to communicate who they are in a healthy way. Families are an integral part of the recovery process and Kate is so thankful for the opportunity to work with the whole family system at Discovery Ranch. Kate is married and has two kids and a sweet Shih Tzu dog. When not working with youth, Kate enjoys painting, crafting, baking and traveling around the world.

Stephanie Lozano, MFT Intern

Therapist

Stephanie Lozano is currently working on her internship for her Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University. Before coming to Discovery Ranch, she served in the United States Army while working on her Master's degree. Before the Army, Stephanie worked as a first responder and backcountry guide.She has worked with adolescents from all different backgrounds in numerous settings- from Substitute teaching, and after-school programming to Girl Scouts. Stephanie has always had a passion for understanding people and holds the belief that deep connections and healing can occur from empowering those she works with. Stephanie believes that when young people can take power in being the author of their own story, there is no limit to what they can accomplish.She hopes to utilize her background in the military and first response to provide trauma-informed care for children and their families. Stephanie also has a special interest in Socio-Culturally Attuned Solution-Focused family therapy, in working with her clients. She implements Narrative Therapy in her work with clients and families and sees how this can be implemented for long-term change.Stephanie loves to help students find peace, hope, confidence, and self-acceptance while they are at Discovery Ranch South.When not working or studying, Stephanie can be found climbing, running, and exploring her new home in Utah with her partner and their two dogs.

Dawn Wright

Clinical Coordinator

Dawn has worked at Discover Ranch South since 2015. She started as a residential mentor, and then a year later she became a residential supervisor. Dawn has been a Residential Supervisor since 2016, and has enjoyed getting to see so many students graduate and lead successful lives after DRS. In 2023 Dawn accepted a position as the Clinical Coordinator and assists the Clinical team in many capacities. Dawn believes in the work we do here at DRS and has enjoyed seeing the students learn and grow into healthy young people and adults. Originally from California, Dawn moved to Cedar City in 2005 and has loved making Utah her home. In her free time, Dawn enjoys spending time with her two adult sons and her two grandchildren. She also loves to find time to go on trips and adventures, usually to a beach somewhere.

Brett Talbot, Ph.D.

Director of Research & Quality / Consulting Licensed Psychologist

Dr. Brett Talbot, PhD is a licensed Psychologist and the Senior Director of Research and Quality at the Ascent Programs. Prior, Dr. Talbot was a Chief Clinical Officer and an Executive Clinical Director for residential group practices.Brett is certified in both Project Management and Lean Six Sigma Healthcare Management. Administratively he specializes in program development, performance improvement, quality assurance, and risk management. Clinically he specializes in working with treatment teams struggling with youth who are treatment resistant and/or requiring specialized services (e.g. Stabilization, Testing/Assessment, substance use programming, Neuro/bio-feedback, etc.).Brett’s research has focused on program design for adolescent wilderness and residential treatment programs, emphasizing the effective integration of the family into treatment; and family functioning related to adolescent and young adult health risk behaviors. Brett also has experience in several settings such as Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children’s Hospital adolescent disordered eating, DeBakey VA Hospital, Behavioral Consultants/Methodist Hospital, and several college counseling centers.Brett is a faculty member at Utah Valley University and has a private practice focused on psychological consultation and testing. Brett’s is fun, easy to talk to, and is an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hiking, camping, backpacking, fly fishing, and anything that gets him out into nature. Brett is married and has 3 children.

Academic Team

Elizabeth Grant, M.Ed

Elizabeth Grant, M.Ed

Academic Director
Jessica Bulloch

Jessica Bulloch

Special Education Coordinator
Jade Barney

Jade Barney

Assistant Special Education Coordinator
Denise Workman

Denise Workman

Academic Coordinator
Micah Baker

Micah Baker

Social Studies Teacher/Academic Experiential Director
Vicki Heaton

Vicki Heaton

Math and Physics Teacher
Hailee Rogers

Hailee Rogers

Science Teacher
Justin Keyes

Justin Keyes

Special Education Teacher

Elizabeth Grant, M.Ed

Academic Director

Elizabeth Grant is thrilled to join the fantastic team at Discovery Ranch South as the Academic Director. She has been working to improve learning and lives for students with learning differences, giftedness and 2E (twice exceptional) for more than thirteen years in California and Colorado. Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Science in Mild/Moderate Special Education from Brigham Young University and earned a Master of Education in Prevention Science Practice from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education. Her particular focus has been on striving to mitigate anxiety in students with learning differences in order to support well-being and successful life transitions. Elizabeth is certified in Special Education, Gifted and Talented Education and Twice Exceptionality in the state of Colorado.Elizabeth loves to visit her four children who live throughout the US and France and she enjoys yoga, singing in choirs, cooking, hiking, art, gardening and exploring locally and going on worldwide adventures.

Jessica Bulloch

Special Education Coordinator

Jessica has worked at Discovery Ranch for Girls for many years. She loves working with students and their families. She loves to swim, to be near the water, to travel, and to have her grandkids over so that she can spoil them.

Jade Barney

Assistant Special Education Coordinator

Jade is the special education aide at Discovery Ranch for Girls. She is currently attending Southern Utah University to earn her degree in Education with a Special Education emphasis.Jade has learned a lot throughout her years at the ranch. She has learned about how to provide aid to students with various emotional disabilities. She loves working with the students at DRG and has enjoyed gaining special education experience. Jade grew up in Cedar City and enjoyed exploring and experiencing the natural beauties found in Southern Utah.

Denise Workman

Academic Coordinator

Denise works as the Academic Coordinator at Discovery Ranch South in Cedar City, Utah. In 1991, she graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education - High Honors. Denise began her career at Discovery Ranch as a Science/Math Tutor and quickly became an avid believer in the program and its broader focus on restoring students and families to healthy, purposeful relationships. As a previous teacher of elementary, middle school, and high school students, her goal now is to develop relationships with students and support the academic staff while they support students with their academic goals. As a former creator and CEO of medium-sized corporation, Denise has experience with best practices as well as streamlining processes that can be applied to academic settings. She understands the key role that communication plays with all staff at Discovery Ranch South as well as with parents of our students. When not working at the ranch, Denise enjoys gardening, cooking, baking, and eating. She also enjoys traveling to visit her children and grandchildren scattered throughout the western states when she is not camping up in the beautiful Utah mountains.

Micah Baker

Social Studies Teacher/Academic Experiential Director

Micah Baker is the Social Studies Teacher/Academic Experiential Director at Discovery Ranch for Girls. She obtained her Bachelors of Science in History Education from Southern Utah University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2012. Micah has been with the Ranch from the beginning and loves sharing her passion for learning with her students. She is also the Academic Experiential Director. Some of her favorite activities have been: building and launching model rockets, teaching Braille, discovering the wide world of origami, exploring animation and Skyping with legendary animator Don Bluth, creating Medieval coat of arms, and helping students foster of love of Shakespeare by attending an all-day field trip to Cedar City’s Shakespeare Festival. When she isn’t teaching, Micah can often be found folding paper for her latest origami creation or solving puzzles. She is also quite the connoisseur of movies and enjoys finding lesser-known films to add to her eclectic collection. We are excited to share that Micah won the 2015 NATSAP Service Award! We shared more details about this accomplishment on our blog: Micah Baker 2015 NATSAP Service Award.

Vicki Heaton

Math and Physics Teacher

Vicki Heaton is the math teacher at Discovery Ranch for Girls. She is married and lives in Cedar City, Utah. She recently retired as a Math and Physics teacher at Cedar City High School. Vicki obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics with an Art minor from Southern Utah University. Later, she earned a Master’s of Education with a Science Emphasis also from SUU. This included an endorsement to teach Physics. In addition to loving to read and do artwork, Vicki trained to become a luthier. She currently builds and repairs violins and guitars at her family business Whittlesticks in Cedar City. When time allows, she pulls a few weeds from her garden. She loves the outdoors, especially being in the mountains since she was born and spent her early years in Sun Valley, Idaho. Currently, she is learning how to engrave metal. It should be apparent that Vicki loves learning and hopes to continue doing that her whole life. She wants to share that love of learning with the young women at DRG.

Hailee Rogers

Science Teacher

Hailee Rogers is a science tutor for Discovery Ranch for Girls. She graduated with a degree in Biology in 2014. After working for several years in the biomedical field, she decided to start a career in education. She is in the process of getting her teaching certification. She loves to travel and has lived in several states including Idaho, Nevada, Minnesota, California, and Utah. Hailee loves spending time with her family and fur babies, playing music, and learning new things. Hailee brings her enthusiasm for science and love of learning to the students at DRG!

Justin Keyes

Special Education Teacher

Justin grew up in Wyoming where he spent most of his time outdoors, hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking. If he wasn't doing those, he was busy traveling the state playing baseball. Justin attended Southern Utah University where he earned a degree in Special Education and Secondary Physical Education. Justin later attended the University of Utah to get his license in Severe Special Education. Justin has been teaching for 14 years. He loves working with kids and spending time with his own kids.

Medical Team

Ryan Williams, MD

Ryan Williams, MD

Psychiatrist
Jake Roberts

Jake Roberts

APRN
Amanda Twichell, RN

Amanda Twichell, RN

Lead Nurse
Celeste Sorensen, RN

Celeste Sorensen, RN

Nurse
Chaura Buterfield

Chaura Buterfield

Medical Coordinator

Ryan Williams, MD

Psychiatrist

Dr. Williams is a highly trained child and 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. Dr. Williams 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.

Jake Roberts

APRN

Jacob “Jake” Roberts has worked in the psychiatric medical field for the last 12 years. While he earned his Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Degree at the University of Utah, he worked at the behavioral health unit in the IHC Hospital in St. George Utah and the LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City Utah.He has worked in multiple levels of behavioral health treatment settings including inpatient, outpatient, wilderness and a number of residential programs. He has grown to love treating the adolescent and young adult population and customizes every treatment plan to their situation.His theory on medication management is to use the least amount of medication possible to stabilize the individual. This, in turn, allows the patient to develop appropriate coping skills and do not always have to rely on medication to solve the problem at hand.He is also licensed in the State of Nevada where he serves the underprivileged population in Southern Nevada.While he’s not treating patients, he spends his time outdoors, either hiking, mountain biking, or boating. He especially enjoys spending time with his young grandchildren.

Amanda Twichell, RN

Lead Nurse

Amanda is a native of Cedar City, Utah, and grew up enjoying all the wonders of Southern Utah. Amanda graduated from Southern Utah University nursing program with a Bachelor of Science in nursing. Before pursuing a career in nursing, Amanda was a master esthetician and loved taking care of people and helping them to feel more comfortable in their own skin. Making a switch to a career in nursing has allowed Amanda to care for others in a holistic way. Amanda started at Discovery Ranch South as a licensed practical nurse in 2021 and was promoted to Lead Nurse in 2022. Amanda plans to return back to school in 2024 to pursue a psychiatric nurse practitioner to continue her passion for mental health. When she isn’t working, she enjoys hiking and photography, spending time with her 3 cats, and hoping people will allow her to re-decorate their offices.

Celeste Sorensen, RN

Nurse

Celeste Sorensen received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing in 1994 from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Prior to joining Discovery Ranch South, she worked in dialysis. At the start of the pandemic, Celeste volunteered to travel to Brooklyn, New York, where she cared for Covid-19 patients requiring dialysis. To this day, it is the most rewarding nursing experience of her career.Prior to working in dialysis, Celeste was employed at St. Luke’s Regional Medical Center in Boise, Idaho, in the Medical Oncology unit. She obtained her Oncology Nursing Certification caring for Medical Oncology, Palliative, and Hospice patients. She worked on the core team caring for Autologous stem cell transplant patients, in ICU and CCU and served on the Organ Donor Requestor team, which was nationally recognized for advocating for tissue and organ donations. Celeste was selected to participate in St. Luke’s Nursing Research Program. Together with her mentor, Shoni Davis, they published a nursing research article in the Oncology Nursing Forum Journal.Celeste volunteers with the American Legion Auxiliary Post 74, is a committee member for Cedar City, Utah, Wreaths Across America, and the Southern Utah Reserve Corps.When she is not working, Celeste is often found gardening, and spending time with her extended family and dog, Dude. She enjoys the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and traveling. 

Chaura Buterfield

Medical Coordinator

Chaura began her journey at Discovery Ranch South in November 2015, initially joining as a dedicated residential staff member. Over the course of a year, she demonstrated her commitment and skills, leading her to take on the role of residential supervisor, a position she excelled in until 2023.Chaura possesses a genuine passion for working with the children under her care and cherishes the camaraderie with her colleagues. Her unwavering dedication is geared toward providing your children with the utmost attention and personalized treatment.Prior to her tenure at Discovery Ranch South, Chaura earned a Bachelor of Psychology degree from Southern Utah University. Beyond her professional life, Chaura finds joy in quality moments spent with her beloved family, including her husband, daughter, and sons. They particularly enjoy fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking together. In her downtime, Chaura also indulges in her love for reading and snuggling with her cherished animals.   

Residential And Management Team

Chase Morgan

Chase Morgan

Residential Director
David McGrew

David McGrew

Maintenance Supervisor
Susan Simpkins

Susan Simpkins

Residential Coordinator
Jeanelle Brady

Jeanelle Brady

Training Coordinator

Chase Morgan

Residential Director

Chase was very fortunate to start in this field as a struggling 17-year-old kid looking for a mentor and something to be passionate about. Wilderness therapy was Chase’s first stop and was truly a transcendental experience for him. Chase has an enormous love for this line of work and the ability that it has in creating change in everyone involved. Chase's biggest belief is the power a mentor, strong, healthy relationships, and accountability can have on anyone, especially youth. Taking a very relational approach to his work, Chase has always been very relatable to the students he works with. Being able to understand and relate to a vast variety of the same struggles as a lot of the students he works with has been able to help him continue to grow, learn, and teach. Chase believes that with great rapport and trust, he can use his experience to continue to coach and train new staff, and has the ability to find those staff with the passion for this industry, and help them grow. His love and passion can be felt the moment you talk with Chase about this line of work and he passes that on to others he works with. In his spare time you will find Chase cheering for the Eagles, Yankees, and Mavericks, hanging out with his brother, learning more about Eastern Psychology, and continuing to grow and learn.

David McGrew

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 South 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!

Susan Simpkins

Residential Coordinator

Susan has worked at Discovery Ranch South since May of 2014. She started as a mentor and has done several different jobs while here. Currently she is the residential coordinator. Susan has so much fun putting together the activities for the students. She loves working with the students here, and hopes to be able to be a positive part of their healing journey. Susan has four daughters of her own. In her free time she enjoys going on adventures with her kids. She is from Henderson, Nevada but has lived in Cedar since 2010. She loves all that Cedar has to offer to her family.

Jeanelle Brady

Training Coordinator

Chef & Culinary Arts

Sam Slade

Sam Slade

Nutrition Director

Sam Slade

Nutrition Director

Sam Slade graduated with her bachelors in human nutrition from Southern Utah University in 2022. While pursuing her degree, Sam fell in love with the science of nutrition and became experienced in the field by working as a dietary aid. As a student, Sam also worked with the University's HOPE (Help Our People Eat) Pantry to ensure all students had access to food and hygiene products. Sam went on to create meal plans to aid the school's diverse student population in making sure they got the nutrition they needed during a pivotal transition in their lives. Sam is devoted to using her in-depth knowledge of food science and intuitive eating to improve other's relationship with food. Sam began working at Discovery Ranch South in 2021 and has been passionate about bringing the joys of food and nutrition to the students in the program. Sam is excited to continue doing so as the program's Nutrition Director.

Equine Team

Tex

Tex

Equine Team - (Advanced)
Carmel

Carmel

Equine Team - (medium- advanced)
Martin

Martin

Equine Team - (Grounds-Intermediate-Advanced)
Appy

Appy

Equine Team - (Grounds - Intermediate-Advanced)
Fred and Ed

Fred and Ed

Equine Team - (Grounds)
Sir Henry

Sir Henry

Sir Henry
Pendeton

Pendeton

Equine Team
Norman

Norman

Equine Team
Maple

Maple

Equine Team
Lewie

Lewie

Equine Team
Jeff

Jeff

Equine Team
Jasper

Jasper

Equine Team

Tex

Equine Team - (Advanced)

Tex – Another of our males, came to work here at Discovery Ranch for Girls 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 Discovery Ranch for Girls; 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.”

Carmel

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.

Martin

Equine Team - (Grounds-Intermediate-Advanced)

Martin was raised at a performance horse facility here in a rural part of Utah. He comes from a long line of working cow and performance horses. The facility he came from is known for their high quality horses. The underlying fact that makes Martin’s background so neat, is he was ridden and trained not only by a professional rodeo cowboy, but as well as young men that are learning their own ropes at their own residential treatment center. Martin came to us by what we see as fate. He had a little of what we would call, a strange gait… which means he probably wouldn’t have made the cut as a performance horse… which then led him to us. He was then donated to Discovery Ranch for Girls, and fit the part almost immediately. His pretty coat and curious personality draws many students to him. Martin is one of our young guns here on the ranch. Don’t let his young age fool you though… he is very well knowledgeable of his work here. He allows the girls to see that too much pressure isn’t always the answer, and not enough, doesn’t suffice, either. He gives them the opportunity to see that soft hands, and a calm presence are much more rewarding than not. Martin’s curiosity really allows movement in our grounds groups… But if not directed in the right way, Martin has a way of showing that if the path is not quite right for him, he isn’t going to take it.

Appy

Equine Team - (Grounds - Intermediate-Advanced)

Appy has been good friends with Martin for a couple of years prior to Discovery Ranch for Girls, as they were pastured together at the same facility. As fate would have it, we got a call a couple months after receiving Martin, in which Appy was in need of a new home. We welcomed him with open arms. He is an appaloosa, with a very distinct snow capped coat, with soft brown eyes. His looks alone draw students to him. Although a little stand offish at first, Appy has a very soft spot for building relationships. He stands off in the distance, waiting for someone to take the first step in building that relationship with him. He is often overlooked because of his shy nature, but opens up with trust. He offers the students a unique experience once they take that chance on him.

Fred and Ed

Equine Team - (Grounds)

Fred and Ed bring variety and fun to Discovery Ranch for Girls. These two little miniature donkeys provide such a unique dynamic to our grounds group. In 2017, we picked these little guys up here in Southern Utah to kind of use as a “test run”. We had only ever had horses, and weren’t quite sure what mini donkeys would bring to the table. They have now exceeded our expectations, and more. At first, Fred and Ed had no trust in humans. They were scared, easily frightened, and would never separate from one another. It was easy for them to take the “flight” mode in hopes that no interaction would happen between them and anyone else. Over time, the donkeys have evolved from being terrified little creatures, to incredibly accepting animals. With a lot of use, human interaction, love, and of course, treats, the donkeys have formed an incredible trust in students. Although… that trust is not incredibly easy to gain. They are very receptive to clear and precise communication and guidelines. If that clear communication is not there, Fred and Ed have a very good way of showing that they do not understand. They provide so much movement in the grounds group when asked correctly. Fred and Ed now have established enough rapport with everyone, that they feel comfortable enough to be guided and directed individually. It took some time for them to be comfortable without one another, but because of the gentle acts and kindness that the girls have showed them, they truly know they are safe here at Discovery Ranch for Girls.

Sir Henry

Sir Henry

Sir Henry is a huge addition to Discovery Ranch for Girls. And when we say huge, we aren’t kidding. Sir Henry is an English Shire… one of the biggest breeds of horses. Sir Henry was donated to us by a local family who owns and raises English Shire Horses. The Diamond Z English Shire Hitch travels all over the United States to perform in shows, rodeos, and parades. Sir Henry sustained an injury to his shoulder that would hinder him from being able to be a part of the hitch, so we were lucky enough to take him in. He is truly the definition of a gentle giant. Although his back stands above the highest fence rail, he doesn’t let his size get in his way. Sir Henry adds a unique feel to the horses of Discovery Ranch for Girls, because he is the only one of his kind and stature on the ranch. For the students here, it is neat for them to look at Sir Henry and know that it is okay to stand out, and to be different. Sir Henry actually shares a pasture with our miniature horse Dora, and the miniature donkeys, Fred & Ed. You can just imagine that picture. Having them all together, with all of their different sizes, personalities, and species, really creates an accepting atmosphere. We have plenty of ideas for the big guy here at Discovery Ranch for Girls, and we can’t wait to share them with you.

Pendeton

Equine Team

Norman

Equine Team

Maple

Equine Team

Lewie

Equine Team

Jeff

Equine Team

Jasper

Equine Team