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- What is your Job Title and what department do you work in?
I am the Mental Health Clinical Manager for Camas Path Behavioral Health. My office is located in the medical clinic just down the hall from emergency services.
- Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Sheridan, Wyoming, which is in northern Wyoming along the foot of the Big Horn Mountains. My parents owned a ranch & I grew up riding horses & enjoying the outdoors.
- What is the best thing about your job?
The best part of my job is the people. I have so enjoyed getting to know tribal members, community members & coworkers. I enjoy a team approach and being able to have various services come together to help individuals in need.
- What is the best thing about Kalispel Tribe?
The best thing about the Kalispel Tribe would have to be the sense of community, the fellowship. Working together toward success and success is for everyone.
- What does your workspace look like?
I am in my office a lot. I do have a window with a bird feeder that gets busy at times. In the summertime, I can look out at the small garden & see what’s growing. The friendly atmosphere creates a work environment in which coworkers or just whoever is passing by feels free to stop & say hello.
- What are your hobbies?
I started showing & training dogs when I was in college & that is still my passion. I have trained or participated in just about every dog sport. We have horses & I enjoy riding. My daughter is active in showing horses, so I am her “roadie”, pit crew, cheerleader. My son participates in every sport he can & I enjoy going to his games. My family loves the outdoors, so we do spend time hiking & kayaking or just doing anything outside. We have several beehives & I help with the harvesting of the honey & upkeep of the hives.
What do you like to do when you are not at the office?
When I am not at the office, my first choice would be to be outside. With that said, I do prefer sunshine to snow so if the weather is no good, I can find indoor things to do like reading. I should say I WANT to read, but I usually have a difficult time sitting still.
- If you could pick one person that inspires you, who would it be and why?
There have been several people throughout my life who have inspired me. It’s difficult to pick one person because it’s more like a type of person. With my background in dog & horse training, I have had the privilege of seeing some of the greatest horse trainers & dog trainers communicate with animals in a way that inspires me. The trait that stands out among these people is their quiet, humble, thoughtful approach, their ability to stay calm intense, stressful situations, their ability to never react with anger but to seek understanding, communication, & partnership. I strive to be like this, not only with animals but in my interactions with people as well.
- What advice would you give to today’s youth?
My values & beliefs are traditional. If you want something, you work for it. I think it’s important to find something you are passionate about. Live your life with integrity. Be true to yourself & your beliefs & values. Don’t let your past define your future. Be forgiving, with forgiveness of self-being most important. Let go of resentments. It takes too much energy to stay angry. GO OUTSIDE! Smell the air, feel the breeze, see the sky. It heals the soul.
- What are five words (or less) of advice for others in your profession?
Listen without judgment.
