Meet the Crew

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My passion lies in helping others reach their best, most balanced selves — emotionally, mentally, and physically. I started Mindful Way Adventures to combine my love for the outdoors with my deep belief in the power of connection, mindfulness, and growth.

My approach is person-centered, meaning I meet each individual exactly where they are, without judgment or expectation. I use Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) to guide participants — both youth and adults — in developing practical skills like managing emotions, building resilience, strengthening relationships, and cultivating empathy. By weaving these principles together with mindfulness-based strategies and experiences in nature, I help individuals feel more grounded, confident, and capable in their everyday lives.

I hold degrees in Psychology and School Counseling, and have more than seven years of experience in social work, Comprehensive Community Services (CCS) programming, and at-risk youth education. Through Mindful Way Adventures, I’m proud to create safe, empowering spaces where people can rediscover themselves, connect deeply, and grow with purpose.

I cover the WRIC, Trempealeau County & the WRRWC 

 My name is Emily, and my background combines education in Social Work and Sociology with professional experience in law enforcement. Since completing my education, I have served in several roles including detention deputy, dispatcher, and most recently as a jail lieutenant. These experiences have given me a firsthand understanding of the challenges many individuals face and how systems can sometimes fall short of providing the support people truly need.

My passion is helping youth and adults recognize their strengths and develop the tools needed to navigate life’s obstacles. I believe in working alongside individuals where they are in their journey, encouraging growth through practical skills like emotional awareness, resilience, communication, and healthy relationships. My goal is to help people build confidence, perspective, and the ability to move forward in positive and meaningful ways.

Outside of my professional life, I have a large family and we deeply value the time we spend outdoors together; we enjoy hunting, fishing, boating, golfing, volleyball, hiking, amongst other outdoor activities. Nature provides a powerful space for reflection, connection, and balance, and I believe those experiences can play an important role in personal growth and well-being. 

I cover the counties of Buffalo, Pepin, Eastern Pierce, Southern Dunn and Southern Chippewa in the WRRWC

I’m passionate about meeting folks where they are at. We all have strengths, and utilizing person centered approaches are one of mine.

I’m a Certified Parent Peer Specialist, and have my own experiences in raising children with complex needs. My area of strength is supporting teams to develop person centered, strength based plans. I have experience in supporting families form effective Behavior Intervention Plans and truly believe behavior is communication.  Making school accessible for all kids is a personal passion project of mine. 

I have experience in supporting youth, and have worked many summer camps and child care jobs. 

Being outside in nature has been beyond therapeutic for our family, and connecting with consumers outside and in the community is something I really look forward too.

I can’t wait to meet you and walk along side you during your recovery journey. 

I cover the counties of Polk, Dunn and Pierce in the WRRWC

  I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology and bring a thoughtful, strengths-based approach to my work. I’ve had the opportunity to support individuals in both healthcare and educational settings, where I developed a strong sense of adaptability and emotional awareness.

I’m especially interested in supporting individuals navigating mental health challenges and strengthening overall well-being. My approach is grounded in mindfulness and an awareness of the mind-body connection. I really enjoy supporting people in building practical skills that foster balance, resilience, and everyday functioning.

I value creating a space that feels respectful, supportive, and nonjudgmental—where people can show up as they are and feel genuinely supported.

I also bring an understanding of recovery-oriented care and have seen how important connection, support, and personal growth can be in the change process.

Outside of my work, I enjoy spending time outdoors and staying active.

I cover the WRIC & Trempealeau County 

 I have a bachelor’s degree in Psychology as well as education in Child Advocacy and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. I have experience working in special education with elementary age students as well as experience working with children birth-4 years old. These experiences have helped me learn many different approaches and skills when working with all children. I have a very calm and patient personality which is extremely beneficial when helping children regulate themselves and their emotions.

I am passionate about empowering children and youth in their everyday life. I believe in meeting each person where they are with kindness and openness. I want to understand exactly where we are starting and the goals they wish to achieve. I value open communication and collaboration to work towards this as a team. Through community-based activities and outdoor experiences I will help them reach their goals. I truly value building community and social skills to help build confidence and comfort. I will work with all behavior and communication styles to help make the community accessible for everyone.

Outside of my work, I love spending time outside with my family and friends as well as reading and doing crafts. I look forward to meeting you and your child and helping them reach their full potential. 

I cover the WRIC

 I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in sociology from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. Since graduating from college, I’ve had the opportunity to work with both children and adults, specifically those who want to address both mental health and substance use concerns. My professional experiences have helped me develop many different strategies and approaches to meet the individual where they are on their journey and work alongside of them.

I am passionate about helping individuals find their strengths and recognizing all accomplishments, big or small. I value open, honest, and collaborative communication and relationships, and value a team-approach when working towards an individual’s goals.

Outside of work, you can find me spending time with family & friends, completing a DIY home project, spending time on the golf course or Mississippi River, and playing with my 3-year-old yellow lab who is always full of energy. I look forward to working with you!

I cover the WRIC