What is your background?
I graduated from Winona State University in 2021 with a degree in Recreational Therapy and became a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) shortly after. My career started in Colorado Springs where I worked as a recreational therapist in a behavioral health hospital supporting children, teens, and adults in mental health crises. I Later returned to Minnesota to focus on supporting individuals with developmental differences – a population close to my heart. I then spent a few years working in a day program in Maple Grove where I provided recreational and educational programming, community outings, vocational supports, and case management services.
Following that, I managed a handful of residential programs in Hennepin County before finding my way to TLC!
What is your role at TLC?
At TLC, I lead a variety of recreation therapy groups including games, art, cooking, and movement-based activities. My approach is centered on creating experiences that build skills and boost confidence..I believe every activity is a chance to connect, grow, and discover something new. My goal is to create experiences that are not only therapeutic but also meaningful and fun.
Why do you like working at TLC?
I love working at TLC because I’m passionate about helping individuals build lifelong skills and celebrating their strengths along the way. It’s incredibly rewarding to see clients engage, express themselves, and experience success in ways that are unique to them. The environment at TLC is supportive, collaborative, and creative, which makes it exciting to come to work each day.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Outside of work, I practice Katonah yoga, read, spend time with friends and family, and hang out with my cat, Bean. Music is a huge part of my life; I love going to shows and I’m currently learning sound design, music production, and DJing. I’m also a huge Minnesota United fan so you can often find me at Allianz Field catching a game during soccer season. I also love being outdoors and savoring a quality cup of coffee.
What is a fun fact about you?
I’ve been playing the violin for nearly 18 years, which made it surprisingly easy to pick up the ukulele. Don’t ask me to play guitar though…anything more than four strings and I’m lost!