CHILD AND YOUTH THERAPISTS WITH A CARING, THOUGHTFUL APPROACH.

Heather joined Rawhide in December 2013 as a residential case manager.

She has a master’s degree in social administration from Case Western Reserve University and a bachelor’s in social work from Cedarville University.

Before Rawhide, Heather worked with nonprofit agencies in community support programs and foster care for several years in Ohio before returning home to Wisconsin where she began working at Rawhide.

Heather has had several positions during her time at Rawhide, including residential therapist, intake manager, and client care manager. Now she works as the clinic and community resource manager where she oversees the outpatient clinics and out-of-home care programs that include therapy, occupational therapy and nursing, as well as youth diversion programming.

Heather is also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Brainspotting, CHAPS Equine-Assisted Therapy and other treatment modalities to help youth and their families work through issues, such as trauma, depression, behavioral challenges, ADHD and anxiety. 

“I wanted to work for Rawhide because it offered youth, their families, and community providers the positive, engaging resources necessary to help those at risk be able to grow and develop as individuals and as a family unit. I love to see youth feel confident in who they are as they positively engage in their communities and daily lives.”

Amanda joined Rawhide in May 2017 as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She holds a master’s and educational specialist degrees in clinical mental health from Clemson University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology and nutrition from Arizona State University.

Before Rawhide, she worked as an intern at community counseling centers with young adults transitioning back to their communities. She also worked at an inpatient mental health facility with adults.

She is now the lead therapist in Residential Services at Rawhide where she works with youth, families and couples experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual behavior problems, anger management, grief/loss, life transitions and trauma. She is also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and CHAPS Equine-Assisted Therapy.

“My husband was transferred to the Fox Valley area for his job while I was in graduate school. Rawhide stood out to me in my job search. I did a phone interview and was hired! When I came for my first day it felt right!”

Lindley joined Rawhide in September 2019 as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology with an emphasis in human services and a minor in child and family studies from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. She received her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs.

Before Rawhide, Lindley worked at a nonprofit organization, conducting home-based therapeutic services for troubled youth and families to achieve family preservation. She also worked at an inpatient substance abuse rehab as a substance abuse counselor.

Today, Lindley works with inpatient and outpatient youth, adults, families and couples who struggle with substance abuse/addiction, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, PTSD and personality disorders. She is also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT).

“My passion is to guide and support individuals, couples and families in their journey to function at their fullest and healthiest potential.”

Gabrielle joined Rawhide in April 2020 as an outpatient therapist.

She earned her master’s degree in professional counseling and her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

Before Rawhide, Gabrielle gained experience in inpatient behavioral health and domestic violence services. She also worked as a dual diagnosis clinician at Options Treatment Programs, Inc.

Today, Gabrielle works with youth focusing on cognitive behavioral approaches with an emphasis on family and system dynamics through CHAPS Equine-Assisted Therapy, school-based therapy, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and AODA.

“I took this position at Rawhide because I wanted to combine my two passions: horses and counseling.”

Kari joined Rawhide in September 2021 as a therapist.

She earned her master’s degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and her bachelor’s degree in psychology and human services from St. Norbert College.

Before Rawhide, Kari worked as a social worker for Outagamie County. She also provided in-home therapy to children and families and therapy to youth at the Boys and Girls Club.

At Rawhide, Kari provides therapy to children, youth, adults and families. As a therapist, Kari uses a strength-based, trauma-informed and client-centered approach. She believes in empowering the individual to overcome life’s challenges.

“I have worked in the mental health field for over 7 years. When I was looking for a new opportunity I was mindful of who I wanted to be employed by. My heart feels so connected to Rawhide because I believe in the mission and values. I believe that each individual working for Rawhide demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the communities we serve. I consider myself lucky to be employed by such a thoughtful organization.” 

Sarah joined Rawhide in August 2019 as a clinical social worker in training.

She holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and a bachelor’s degree in human services from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

Before Rawhide, Sarah had a clinical placement at Innovative Counseling, Inc.

Sarah works with children, youth, adults and families. She specializes in helping those struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, behaviors, self-esteem challenges, ADHD, trauma and PTSD. She enjoys using creative and interactive treatment modalities, including CHAPS Equine-Assisted Therapy and play therapy. Sarah integrates Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), client-centered therapy, positive psychology and other techniques into treatments.

“I came to Rawhide because I am very passionate about equine-assisted therapy and I knew it would be a great place to gain more experience and help others.”

Lisa joined Rawhide in 2002 as a residential therapist and transitioned to an outpatient therapist in 2008.

She has a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Trinity International University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from William Smith College in NY. 

At Rawhide, she works with youth, women, and married couples struggling with depression, anxiety or relationship difficulties. Additionally, she helps clients with conflict resolution, anger management, parenting, oppositional defiance, Christian spiritual development, conduct disorder, ADHD and grief/loss. Lisa is also trained in CHAPS Equine-Assisted Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and is a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC).

“I felt a push to work with juvenile delinquent boys when I was a freshman in college. The same year I had my first child was the same year Rawhide started the outpatient program, so it was a great transition! I love connecting with people and feel passionate about showing the love of Christ to those who are hurting and helping them carry their burdens, connecting them to positive resources, speaking truth, and teaching and encouraging them in my counseling sessions.”

Dorothy joined Rawhide in 2002 as a social worker in the living units and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in 2011.

She has a master’s degree in social work with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

Dorothy specializes in working with foster and adopted children, foster/adoptive parents, and youth as they work through strengthening relationships, attachment, anger management, conduct disorder, conflict resolution, anxiety, depression and problem-solving skills. She also integrates biblical principles and truths into her practice to assist in the healing and change processes for her clients.

“I love working at a Christian-based organization and using the gifts God has given me to serve the clients by showing them tools, skills and instilling hope for a better future.”

Kathy joined Rawhide in November 2013 as an outpatient therapist.

She holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Before Rawhide, Kathy has worked with children and families involved with Child Protective Services and Juvenile Court Services. She also has experience working with serious mental illness, issues specific to the elderly, and those who have had head injuries or strokes. She has worked many years as a co-leader of a marriage program that focuses on strengthening marriages, mentoring couples and more.

Kathy works with Rawhide youth, families and couples who are struggling with sexual abuse, grief/loss, PTSD, anxiety, depression and trauma recovery. She specializes in marital and family issues, and is trained in Brainspotting ,Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and CHAPS Equine-Assisted Therapy.

“Rawhide matches my values of leading with empathy, compassion and listening. Through its many services, Rawhide reflects an unwavering hope for healing for all who walk through our doors. Our emphasis on working with, not just individuals, but the whole family or support system is critical.”

Mark joined Rawhide in September 2019 as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Board for Certified Counselor. He earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology and master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs.

Before Rawhide, Mark was in the United States Army and was honorably discharged. He then began counseling youth in a psychiatric residential treatment facility. 

Today, Mark works with children, youth, adults and families in inpatient and outpatient settings at Rawhide, specializing in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) techniques for those struggling with anxiety, depression, interpersonal communication, self-esteem, relationships and traumatic experiences. His therapeutic style includes bringing a calm presence, compassion and patience to the sessions to help with the healing process.

“I was drawn to Rawhide’s use of equine-assisted therapy and the organization’s message and renown throughout the state, and I wanted to give back to our community by serving disadvantaged and under-represented youth in hopes of treating intergenerational trauma and breaking the cycle that contributes to it.”

Ashley joined Rawhide June 2021 as a therapist. 

She earned her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and her bachelor’s in psychology from University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. 

Before Rawhide, she completed her internship at YScreen assessing teen’s emotional health in the Fond du Lac area.  

At Rawhide, she provides individual, group and family therapy. Using a therapeutic, person-centered approach, she tailors her approach to meet each individual’s needs. Ashley believes focusing on establishing a therapeutic relationship and creating an environment of acceptance and non-judgment is critical to facilitating growth and self-acceptance. 

“I grew up in the Fox Valley and I have always heard about Rawhide through people in my community. My parents and their friends would go to the Friday Fish Fries and my first car was donated to their car program but, beyond that, I never really understood what Rawhide actually was. I learned that it provided a variety of opportunities to work with that population and make a difference. I have a passion for working with youth. I enjoy creating a space for youth to express themselves authentically and promote healing through our therapeutic connection. Throughout the interview process, everyone at Rawhide was so kind and inviting. I felt like I made a great decision to become part of the team at Rawhide.”

Samantha joined Rawhide in June 2021 as a therapist.

She earned her master’s degree in professional counseling from Mount Mary University and her bachelor’s degree in psychology with an emphasis in behavior analysis from Northern Michigan University.

Before Rawhide, Samantha interned in residential and outpatient settings where she facilitated individual, group, and family sessions with those impacted by trauma, mental health challenges and substance abuse concerns.

At Rawhide, she provides individual, family and equine-assisted therapeutic services, utilizing person-centered, cognitive-behavioral and strength-based approaches. Samantha also provides school-based counseling at Milwaukee Academy of Science. She enjoys incorporating art and play interventions to her sessions to foster creativity. Samantha is trained in Psychological First Aid (PFA) and received a trauma counseling certificate of completion from Mount Mary University.

“Ever since I was young, I wanted to help make the world a better place. I felt an instant calling to be a part of Rawhide after my first interview. I got very excited when I found out I could work with horses in the Milwaukee area because animals have a unique way of understanding emotions. I truly believe that horses teach us how vulnerability and empathy can elicit healing and authenticity. Working at Rawhide gives me the opportunity to walk alongside those experiencing extreme obstacles and provide a non-judgmental space for healing”.

Becca joined Rawhide in September 2017 as an outpatient therapist.

She holds a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Marquette University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

Before Rawhide, Becca worked on the adult and child/youth units at Rogers Behavioral Health.

She is also licensed as a substance abuse counselor and is trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She has experience working with children, youth and adults in both residential and outpatient settings. Becca helps individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, self-esteem, relationships, trauma and more. Becca also provides school-based therapy at the Milwaukee Academy of Science.

“I was drawn to the mission of Rawhide and wanted to be able to help individuals from different backgrounds who are at risk or who are struggling with the difficulties of life and mental illness.”

Jazmin joined Rawhide October 2020 as a therapist.

She earned her master’s degree in social work and her bachelor’s degree in social work and psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Before Rawhide, she worked as a crisis services clinician for Milwaukee County.

At Rawhide, she provides individual, couples and family therapy using CBT, Socratic Dialogue and motivational interviewing. In addition to therapy, she also does clinical assessments, treatment planning and diagnosing.

“I knew I wanted to work for Rawhide because of the organization’s rich history and reputation for positively impacting the communities it serves. As an employee, I value my ability to make a difference and help others reach their goals through therapy.”

Courtney joined Rawhide September 2021 as a therapist.

She earned her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Lakeland University and her bachelor’s degree in psychology and human development from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

Before Rawhide, her 750-hour internships were completed at Rawhide, an outpatient clinic that also provided school-based counseling, and a nonprofit counseling center. She also has experience working with at-risk youth and their families as a contracted youth support specialist with Outagamie County.

At Rawhide, she provides therapy services to youth, adults, groups and families, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with solution-focused and person-centered approaches. She believes the client will guide the direction and conversation of counseling, and seeks to walk alongside each of them to support, encourage and help the client make positive changes in their life.

“When I interned with Rawhide, it was my first real experience out in the field, and I was very nervous. But I felt so welcomed and learned so much during my few short months here. Throughout my schooling, I was very open to the opportunities that the Lord would place before me, and when I saw that Rawhide was hiring, it felt like God was opening the door again for me to join Rawhide in its mission to inspire and equip at-risk youth and their families.”

Jen came to Rawhide in September 2019 as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She holds a master’s degree in mental health counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Stout and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

Before Rawhide, Jen worked in the counseling field with youth and families for more than 15 years as a therapist in day treatment programs, in-homes and another residential treatment facility.

Jen works with youth and families who struggle with sexually harmful behaviors, PTSD, depression, anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), conduct disorder, behavioral challenges, difficult family dynamics, self-esteem issues, ADHD and grief/loss. She integrates client-centered therapy and solution-focused techniques into her treatments, and is trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and CHAPS Equine-Assisted Therapy.

“Rawhide has always intrigued me because of the approach used to place youth in the residential setting. I really like how they have the youth in homes with a family structure, which is quite different from the other residential facilities in Wisconsin. When I learned that they had branched out to offer outpatient services and that I would have the opportunity to learn and practice equine-assisted counseling, I decided to apply and the rest is history!”

Tina Joined Rawhide in June 2021 as a therapist.

She earned her master’s degree in social work and her bachelor’s degree in social work with a minor in social justice from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. She earned her Substance Abuse Counselor-In Training (SAC-IT) certificate from Fox Valley Technical College.

Before beginning her employment at Rawhide, she completed her 580-hour internship at Rawhide and worked as a social worker at Oshkosh Correctional Institution and Fond du Lac County Social Services.

At Rawhide, she provides individual, group, equine and family therapy using CBT, motivational interviewing and strength-based approaches.

“I became a mom at a very young age. Lucky for me, I was blessed with a supportive family. That drew me to become a mental health social worker to be able to provide support to youth that come from a less supportive family. I knew I wanted to work for Rawhide during my internship. I fell in love with the organization and the mission. It felt like a calling to me. Working with the youth daily and teaching them coping skills, healthier lifestyle and providing them with support to overcome the obstacles they have faced was a blessing to see the progress.”

Colby joined Rawhide in July 2021 as a therapist.  

She earned her master’s degree is in mental health Counseling at Capella University and her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. 

Before Rawhide, Colby was a certified parent coach and social worker for 4.5 years. She also has a history of working as a crisis counselor at the Family Crisis Center in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, and a mental health professional at Colorado State Penitentiary. She completed the internship for her master’s program at Northwest Journey Day Treatment Center in De Pere, Wisconsin.

At Rawhide, Colby provides individual, group, and family therapy, using a person-centered therapeutic approach that focuses on relationship building as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

“I have been on the Rawhide campus several times in the past for my previous roles. The more recent visits I have had here, I would leave thinking about what an amazing place it is for youth to be able to receive treatment. It is peaceful, beautiful and the staff are wonderful. So I decided it was my time to make a change and coincidentally saw Rawhide was hiring for the exact position that my heart was searching for. And here I am!”

Cassie joined Rawhide in October 2019 as a residential and outpatient therapist. 

She earned her master’s degree in counseling at Lakeland University-Neenah and her bachelor’s degree in psychology at University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

Before Rawhide, Cassie served 20 years in the United States Army National Guard and worked two years at Options Treatment Programs, Inc. with individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse. Here she also worked with the counties, social workers, caseworkers, case managers, drug court, treatment courts, probation agents, and clients and their families.

Today, Cassie works with children, youth, adults and families, specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Substance Abuse (CBI-SA), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).

“After the military, I chose to obtain my master’s degree in counseling to serve veterans struggling with their mental health struggles, PTSD and building family relationships. My passion soon turned into working with youth to help them choose a healthier lifestyle, identifying, and processing personal and AODA struggles, and building healthy family relationships.”

Angelina joined Rawhide January 2021 as a residential therapist.

She earned her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Walden University and her bachelor’s degree in psychology and biology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Before Rawhide, she completed her 700-hour internship at the Outagamie County Jail and worked as a psychiatric care technician at Mendota Mental Health Institute in Madison.

At Rawhide, she provides individual, group and family therapy, using a therapeutic, person-centered approach based on individual’s needs. She believes the client knows themselves best and tries to take on a more facilitating role to help create positive change.

“I didn’t know much about Rawhide prior to applying. In fact, I was hesitant to apply and avoided applying because of the 40-minute commute from where I currently live. One day, I decided to hop on the internet, Google Rawhide and take a look at the organization’s website. That’s where I fell in love with Rawhide’s mission and values. I watched the opening video and found myself getting emotional right alongside the other therapists and staff that were interviewed for the video and said to myself, “I want to be a part of this.” Rawhide kept presenting itself as an opportunity for me over and over again for months and I finally just listened to my heart and trusted God and His timing!”

Emily joined Rawhide in May 2021 as an occupational therapist.

She earned her master’s degree in occupational therapy from Washington University in St. Louis and her Bachelor’s degree in psychology from Ohio State University.

Before Rawhide, Emily completed clinical fieldwork with the Brain Injury Association of Missouri and at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO. She also previously provided community programming at a center for senior independent living and worked as a teaching assistant for students with autism.

At Rawhide, Emily helps youth develop the skills they need for success in everyday life where they live, learn, work and play through therapeutic engagement in daily activities. Occupational therapists use a holistic, client-centered approach to promote health and improve quality of living with injury, illness or disability. Emily incorporates sensory integrative techniques and a trauma-informed lens to meet the unique needs of her clients.

“I discovered Rawhide while considering relocating to Wisconsin to be closer to loved ones. As I learned more, I came to understand Rawhide as a place committed to meeting youth and families where they are and providing holistic services – the same guiding principles that drew me to my profession.”

Jasmine joined Rawhide in July 2021 as a therapist.  

She earned her master’s degree in clinical rehabilitation and mental health counseling from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and her bachelor’s degree in business management and minor in kinesiology from Iowa State University.

Before Rawhide, Jasmine completed an internship at Carolina Outreach where she delivered a wide range of services to individuals with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) and substance use disorders. She provided psychoeducation to individuals and families regarding diagnoses and implemented psychiatric rehabilitation plans to assist with symptom stabilization, improve activities of daily living, and increase coping skills. 

At Rawhide, Jasmine provides therapy services to youth and their families within the Fond du Lac School District. She is passionate about creating an open and empathic space to make a difference, using a person-centered therapeutic approach to tailor treatment to the specific needs of the individual. 

“After researching Rawhide and talking with members of the organization, it was evident that people here truly cared about the work they do and the people they were serving. They weren’t merely going through the motions or checking any boxes, but were living according to their values and looking to best meet the needs of all individuals they serve. I felt my values closely aligned with the values embodied by Rawhide and I wanted the opportunity to work for an organization rooted in faith and dedicated to selflessly serving others.”

Clarissa joined Rawhide in September 2021 as a therapist.

She earned her master’s degree in professional counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and her bachelor’s degree in environmental science from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.

Before Rawhide, Clarissa worked as a law enforcement officer for 7.5 years. She completed her 700-hour practicum and internship at Nova Counseling Services, an inpatient residential treatment facility for adults who struggle with substance abuse.

At Rawhide, Clarissa provides youth, adult, family and group therapy using a therapeutic, person-centered, holistic approach based on the individual’s needs. She believes the client knows themselves best and tries to take on a more facilitating role to help create positive change.

“I have always believed that all things happen for a reason. So one day, when I was feeling like I could no longer help the members of my community the way I wanted to as a law enforcement officer; I stumbled upon the therapist job opening at the Fond du Lac Counseling Center. I soon realized that this was the opportunity I was searching for. I have personally seen the struggles our youth are facing today and the impact that these struggles have on their mental wellness. As I continue this journey, I look to embrace the Rawhide mission to equip at-risk youth and their families to lead healthy and responsible lives.”

Rob joined Rawhide in June 2021 as a therapist.

He earned his master’s degree in educational psychology with an emphasis in clinical mental health counseling and his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Before Rawhide, Rob served 5 years of active duty in the United States Air Force. Following Rob’s military service, he worked in corporate IT. He completed his 700-hour internship at the UW-Oshkosh counseling center, providing individual and group therapies as well as psychoeducation to a diverse group of clients.

At Rawhide, Rob provides youth, adult, family and group therapy, using Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) to youth and families at Rawhide. Rob’s approach to therapy allows the client to develop skills that work best for their individual needs.

“As I was looking for opportunities to maximize my skill set as a therapist, I gravitated toward Rawhide and their creative approach to therapy. I was excited to learn how the team environment at Rawhide provides every therapist with the tools to help deliver the best experience possible for the client. The team approach at Rawhide provides each client an excellent platform for success.”

Jeff joined Rawhide in 2017 as a case manager and transitioned to a residential therapist role in 2019 and an outpatient therapist in 2020.

He earned his master’s degree in social work from UW-Oshkosh and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Liberty University. 

Prior to Rawhide, Jeff served in the United States Marine Corps and later worked as a line therapist with children on the autism spectrum and adults with mental health diagnoses living in a group home. He also directed summer camps for kids for about 10 years. 

Currently, he works with adjudicated youth and their families, facilitating individual, family and group sessions. Jeff is also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), CHAPS Equine-Assisted Therapy and motivational interviewing. 

“I like the idea of working with kids and their families to make and bring positive changes to their lives and provide some insight that they can have a voice in that change. Many of our clients have experienced significant trauma, which affects how they view the world and work their way through it. I tell my clients I never give them a pass for their behaviors from past trauma, but try to help them understand how it affects their thinking process.”

Jackie joined Rawhide July 2020 as an outpatient therapist.

She earned her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Mount Mary University and her bachelor’s degree in construction management and safety administration from the University of Wisconsin-Stout.

Before Rawhide, Jackie completed a clinical internship at Milwaukee Academy, an inpatient residential program working with youth and their families who survived human trafficking and showed comorbid disorders, such as ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, substance abuse, trauma and self-esteem issues.  

At Rawhide, she provides outpatient therapy services for children, youth, adults, couples and families at the Fond du Lac School District, the Fond du Lac Counseling Center and via telehealth. She is also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), CHAPS Equine-Assisted Therapy and Psychological First Aid (PFA). Jackie specializes in a client-focused approach and implements creativity through equine, play and narrative techniques. 

“Rawhide’s mission to serve and help others resonates with me on a personal level. As an individual who has overcome many hurdles, I wanted to be able to empower those in my community to recognize their strength and write their own story.”

Katie joined Rawhide in May 2021 as an occupational therapist.

She holds a master’s and bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy from the University of Central Arkansas.

Before Rawhide, Katie worked in Arkansas and New Jersey in a variety of treatment settings with individuals across their lifespan. The majority of her time was spent in the inpatient and post-acute rehabilitation settings, where she specialized primarily in neurorehabilitation.

Katie works with individuals of all ages to promote improved health and quality of life through the use of occupation. The goal of occupational therapy is to utilize client-centered goals to drive the treatment to improve overall independence and participation in daily activities. She is also a Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS) and a Certified Neuro Specialist (CNS).

“My daughter and I returned to Wisconsin to be closer to family, and during my job search, Rawhide came up.  I remember my parents donating to Rawhide when I was growing up, and after some additional research, I decided that Rawhide was a great fit for me.  I came to Rawhide because I was inspired by their values and passion for the youth as well as their investment in occupational therapy services and its benefits.”