Meet Madi
It began with a love for nature since I was very young. I can recall my first true outdoor experience exploring Lava Beds National Monument on an 8th-grade field trip having just moved to California. I saw my first shooting star that week and felt awe for, what I believe, was the very first time. I’ve had a strong knowing since this experience that I was meant to share that awe with others.
I have a background in wilderness and surf therapy throughout my graduate school experience at Prescott College in Arizona. I worked for both Groundswell Community Surf Project in San Francisco Bay Area and Open Sky Wilderness Therapy in Durango, Colorado to continue to marry my love for nature and connecting with others. I have been privileged to incorporate as much nature and awe into my practice as possible (even via telehealth!)
When working with me, I love to explore the “why” behind certain behaviors and how this is connected to our bodies and minds. I have studied somatic and adventure therapy throughout my post-graduate experience and am very curious about the body and brain in the counseling setting. I hold a deep belief that we all require awe and connection to something bigger than ourselves to thrive. When working together, we will consider how your lived, human experience plays into your daily life, and how we can enhance your understanding of it.
I hope to provide a soft, gentle, yet energetic space for you to come as you are with all of your lived experiences.
In my free time, I enjoy skiing and playing in the snow with my malamute/husky named King. I also hold a deep love for watching the sunrise and running up and down big mountains.
Professional Background
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in California, #15888
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington, #pending
I have extensive experience working in the residential treatment environment in the PHP and wilderness therapy settings in California, Colorado, and Utah. My specialties include treating anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stabilization for families in crisis, and trauma-informed care. My training is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic experiencing specifically for adolescents struggling with addiction.
Theoretical Approach
My theoretical approach stems from an understanding of systems theory and how it impacts individuals within a family system. I also utilize a person-centered approach, emphasizing that each person within that system can be the expert in their own life. When forming a new therapeutic alliance with a client, we beginsby unpacking any barriers to treatment such as trauma or ongoing issues with substance use disorders and family. I consider the complexities that stem from the family system and how this impacts each individual, their beliefs, motivations, and past experiences in treatment.
