Meet Our Team

Fully Vested. Individually Committed.

With deep conviction, the team of professionals at Innercept has devoted most of their lives to serving others. Throughout our nearly two decades, we have remained steadfastly committed to providing young people and their families with a breadth and depth of professional expertise and personal backgrounds. That’s why one of our top priorities is intentionally recruiting and hiring people with a broad range of education, training and life experiences who also share our core values. We believe this diversity is key to empowering our residents to grow and thrive.  

From M.D.s, psychologists and masters-prepared therapists to dieticians, teachers and board-certified nurse practitioners, our people are at the heart how we are able to transform the lives of our residents, helping them to reach their full potential. It’s our diversity of knowledge and clinical expertise, along with personal values and life experiences that give us the ability to empower transformations other adolescent and young adult mental health treatment programs cannot achieve. Our team of professionals is personally vested in changing the face of mental health through our proven integral approach that treats the whole person to support healthy living. 

Directors

Sarah Stevens, B.S.
Sarah Stevens, B.S.

Executive Director

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    Upon graduating with honors from Western Baptist College (now known as Corban University) in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, Sarah Stevens’ dedication to serving others began with the Spokane County Sheriff’s department, where she served six years as a deputy sheriff.

    After taking some time to raise her four children with her husband, Sarah continued her pursuit of helping others by joining the direct-care team at Innercept Residential Treatment Center working in every program with special emphasis on stabilization. With nearly a decade of experience in transforming the lives of young people, she now leverages her strengths and expertise by serving as Executive Director. Sarah is also deeply committed to enriching the lives of young people in our community by serving as a soccer coach at both high-school and club levels.

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    Lynn Wierdsma, PsyD

    With specialties in family forensics, neuropsychology, as well as extensive experience in trauma-informed and trauma-focused treatment, Dr. Lynn Wierdsma, a licensed clinical psychologist has been helping others in need. With a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, she has worked extensively in various areas of the psychological and behavioral arenas – from teen group homes and community mental health to child protective services, juvenile probation and adult correctional facilities. Her experiences with the intersection of mental health and the legal system not only led her to pursue a doctorate in this area, but also convinced her of the power a cross-disciplinary, multi-faceted approach to treatment.   

    Innercept Residential Treatment Center’s commitments to changing the face of mental health for young people through therapeutic assessment and integral-recovery principles presented Dr. Wierdsma the unique opportunity to leverage her expertise in more effective ways. In returning to the adolescent and young-adult population closest to her heart, she continues to live her passion and purpose both personally and professionally. 

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    Christine Summering, M.A., LPC
    Christine Summering, M.A., LPC

    Clinical Director, Young Adult Program

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      Chrissy began her journey into counseling in the Winter of 2011 when she moved to South Dakota to pursue her Graduate Degree in Human Development and Educational Psychology from the University of South Dakota. Her research focused on utilizing the holistic treatments of meditation and Reiki as stress reduction tools in a therapeutic setting for young adults and those making the transition to college. Towards the end of her program Chrissy decided she wanted to implement her findings and in the Fall of 2013 she began the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at the University of South Dakota. Currently, she is working on her PhD in Developmental Psychology through Walden University where she is focused on Child and Adolescent Development and issues around attachment and the parent-child relationship. Chrissy has her Bachelors in Musical Theater and is dedicated to utilizing the arts therapeutically. She has a passion for working with youth, most recently as an instructor for professional children’s theater in Portland, OR and assistant theater program director at Camp Lindenmere in Stroudsburg, PA.

      Chrissy came to Coeur d’Alene after a visit to the city on a road trip to her hometown of Portland, in 2011. She fell in love with the mountains, lakes, and small town kindness and decided to make Coeur d’Alene home. Chrissy has been a practicing Reiki practitioner since 2013 and enjoys being out in nature as much as possible. She has a love for music and can be found singing around town in a local classic country band. 

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      John Drozd, PhD, ABMP

      John Drozd is a licensed clinical psychologist and a board-certified medical psychologist. After receiving his doctorate, John completed residency training at Andrews Air Force Base and served as an active duty Air Force psychologist from 1997 to 2002. John served as the vice president of clinical affairs at Lexicor Medical Technology, and as the clinical director of the NeuroAssessment Centre.

      As a committed scientist-practitioner, John is involved in the development and delivery of evidence-based assessments and interventions for children, adolescents and adults. He has authored and co-authored multiple publications in the areas of psychotherapy research, clinical-outcomes management, trauma and the collaborative assessment and management of suicidality. John’s credentials and treatment philosophy align with the Innercept integral approach and further strengthen our ability to help adolescents and young adults realize their full potential.

      John is passionate about helping others in his spare time, with a particular interest in veteran’s causes. John spent time mentoring high school students academically and athletically as they prepared to be first-generation college students.

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      Joshua Martin, B.A.
      Joshua Martin, B.A.

      Program Director, Adolescent Program

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        Josh Martin was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. Between mountain biking in the summer and snowmobiling in the winter as a youth, he found a passion for working with children through parks and recreation and after-school programs.

        His interest in kinesiology and its effects on daily life grew. and Josh sought out college opportunities in that field. Josh attended Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) graduating with a Bachelor’s in Recreational Program Management, Facility Management and a minor in Coaching. During this time, he played soccer, managed elementary-age summer camps and worked with Boys and Girls Club.

        In recent years, Josh has continued to work with youth in various settings, including helping struggling students find resources for success locally, coaching soccer and managing a soccer-training facility. Since joining Innercept in 2015, Josh has worked multiple campuses in different roles and currently manages the team at the adolescent campus. Through his knowledge, passion and experience, Josh works to positively affect change in the lives of those around him.

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        Travis Roper
        Travis Roper

        Program Director, Young Adult Program

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          Travis Roper has spent the majority of his adult life serving in the U.S Navy as an air-traffic controller and brings a wealth of knowledge and life experience to his work with the residents. After moving to the Inland Northwest to be closer to family, Travis began work as the manager of a therapeutic boarding school. It was here that he discovered a hidden skill set in supporting adolescents and young adults to identify and actualize their potential.

          As team manager of the young-adult transition program, he finds the supportive environment at Innercept valuable in establishing a genuine connection with residents. Travis’ calm, yet energetic personality provides the perfect foundation for building rapport with his students, and his programming delivers a stable structure for them as they move into independence. He utilizes his compassion and kindness to motivate and inspire residents to find their calling and passion in life. In his free time, Travis can be found sharpening his musical skills and spending quality time with family and friends.

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          Chris Finch, M.Ed.
          Chris Finch, M.Ed.

          Education Director

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            Chris Finch comes to Innercept with almost 20 years of educational experience in grade levels ranging from preschool all the way through college. His bachelor’s degree in kinesiology is from California State University at San Bernardino and his master’s in education is from National University in La Jolla, California. Chris began teaching career in Northern California where he taught 3rd-8th graders. After a short adventure teaching near Wellington, New Zealand, Mr. Finch returned to California and began his career as a Principal/Administrator. After leading a school in California for several years, he and his family made the move to beautiful North Idaho to administrate a pre-K-12th grade school in Post Falls.  

            Innercept is a place that truly focuses on the individual and helping them achieve their goals and aspirations. In a traditional school model, achieving this level of individual focus can be difficult due to restrictions on time and resources. At Innercept, Chris gets to serve students who are working towards their high school diplomas and college degrees, as well as those working towards success in their careers of their choice.

            When Mr. Finch is not at Innercept, he can most often be found at home on his “hobby farm”, outside of Coeur d’Alene spending time with his wife, two kids, and furry menagerie of animals. Chris also loves to travel whether by plane, by RV or, most recently, sailing the Caribbean. 

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            Scott Fitzwater, LPC, CADC II
            Scott Fitzwater, LPC, CADC II

            Clinical Director, Adolescent Programs

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              Scott is a West Coast native currently residing in Oregon. He has a master’s in counseling psychology with board certified licensure in both mental health and addiction counseling.  Having worked with youth and young adults in residential treatment and emotional growth programming for nearly 30 years, Scott has expansive experience with the complex and diverse needs of individuals requiring specialized, tailored support. Scott is passionate about program design and function as well as effective, well-matched clinical intervention. He understands that whole families, especially the parents, benefit from timely education, relevant resources, and sophisticated support to improve their youth’s prognosis and outcomes and he strives to provide compassionate support to families and their teams.

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              Kelly Stokes, M.B.A., SHRM-CP

              Kelly is an experienced human resources director who has worked in diverse organizations. Originally from Southern California, Kelly earned her bachelor’s degree in business management from California State University, Fullerton, and her Master of Business Administration from University of Redlands. In addition, she is a member of the Delta Mu Delta Business Honor Society and is SHRM-CP certified. Professionally, Kelly focuses on creating and maintaining a positive work environment that is conducive for all. Kelly is a strong employee advocate, while also being a disciplined business leader. She was drawn to Innercept because of her passion for mental health and the opportunity to play a role in the process of helping our residents. Kelly takes pride in being thorough and hiring only the best staff for Innercept. In her personal time, Kelly enjoys spending time with her spouse, and their three kids. They enjoy camping and boating on Pend Oreille Lake.

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              Paula Perry
              Paula Perry

              Environmental Director

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                Paula Perry has more than 15 years of work experience in office management and over 10 years functioning as a financial coordinator. Her extensive background includes work in the healthcare industry. She comes to Innercept with an understanding of the importance of confidentiality, both in the clinical and financial realms.

                Paula is committed to supporting our residents and their families by helping them through every step of the financial aspect. She loves getting to know the residents and providing them with the information they need to navigate the various organizations, including school districts, guarantors and mental-health agencies. Paula’s solution-oriented approach and can-do attitude align perfectly with Innercept’s foundational values and provide great peace of mind to those we serve.

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                Clinical

                Jennifer Schindler, Ph.D.

                Holding both a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree in psychology from the University of Phoenix, as well as her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Montana State University. The focus of Jennifer Schindler’s studies centered on eating disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder.

                She has worked in a variety of roles and settings, including volunteer work finding appropriate services for low-income families and a therapeutic-boarding school.

                Jenn has been an integral part of the Innercept team since 2012, working with residents as a mentor for the young-adult intensive program, as well as our adolescent intensive, transition, and aftercare programs.

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                Allison Fishler, B.A., LMSW

                Allison was born in Utah but predominantly grew up in Northern Virginia. Experiencing a passion and natural ability to help others, Allison began her process of becoming a therapist in 2016. Looking to pursue higher education in an environment with a variety of hiking trails, Allison moved back to Utah where she has resided for the past 8 years. Allison recently moved to the Coeur d’Alene area to expand her work as a clinician and exposure to nature which led her to Innercept. 

                Allison specializes in working with adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, conduct disorders, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Utilizing a strengths-based and trauma informed approach, Allison strives to support clients’ work toward adaptive behavioral changes. Allison integrates therapeutic modalities including motivational interviewing, ACT, CBT, DBT, and EFT with each client’s unique and individual needs. 

                Allison earned her bachelor’s degree in 2020 from Utah State University with a double major in social work and sociology in addition to a law and society area studies certificate. Allison then pursued her Master of Social Work degree in the advanced standing program which she completed in 2022 at the University of Utah. Allison has experience working at residential treatment centers for several years and she strives to consistently gain experience by working with a variety of clients with different needs.

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                Medical

                Edward Malewski, M.D.

                Dr. Malewski brings with him over 40 years of experience in child, adolescent, and family psychiatry, with half that time involved in residential treatment. His career has taken him to positions in such well-respected academic and medical institutions as the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, the University of California at Davis, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His experience in working with multi-disciplinary teams caring for the most complex and challenging cases has led to his desire to continue such efforts as a member of the Innercept staff.

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                Taylor Hall, B.S., B.S.N., M.S.N.
                Taylor Hall, B.S., B.S.N., M.S.N.

                Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

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                  Taylor is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practicioner at Innercept, having spent most of her earlier life and career in Tennessee. Taylor earned a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Science at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and then went on to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Lincoln Memorial University.

                  Taylor has over six years experience working in the behavioral health field, most recently working as a PMHNP at English Mountain Recovery in Sevierville, TN.

                  Taylor uses an integrative approach to treatment, and utilizes various techniques based on the individual she is working with. Taylor loves working in a team environment, and was drawn to Innercept as she likes how Innercept works as a team to ensure the needs of the residents as well as their families are being addressed.

                  Taylor enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Rocko and Rizzo, as well as running, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

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                  Barb Younger, RN
                  Barb Younger, RN

                  Registered Nurse, Young Adult Transition and Ingage Programs

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                    Ms. Younger graduated from Spokane Community College first as a licensed practical nurse and began a career in the mental health field at Pine Crest Hospital. This was a challenging position working in the area of mental health on acute care psychiatric units for children, adolescents, and adults. After several years experience in the acute psychiatric hospital setting Ms. Younger remained in the psychiatric field but in the new setting of outpatient practice within the office of Northwest Psychiatric. Ms. Younger also has several years nursing experience working with the elderly in assisted living facilities.

                    Ms. Younger then again graduated from Spokane Community College as a registered nurse. She has worked with Innercept since its inception in several capacities always with dedication and attention to detail, one of which being environmental therapy as a method of treatment progression. In her free time Ms. Younger enjoys spending time with family, pets, nature, and teaching young people the art of riding horses.

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                    Amy Bashaw, CNA
                    Amy Bashaw, CNA

                    Certified Nursing Assistant

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                      I obtained my CNA Certification in Grangeville, ID, while also having worked as a psychiatric tech, medical tech and CNA.

                      I treat all clients with respect, taking an empathetic approach in my work.

                      When not at Innercept, you can find me spending time with my husband, kids and one dog named Henry.

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                      McKenna Naumann, CNA
                      McKenna Naumann, CNA

                      Certified Nursing Assistant

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                        McKenna is a certified nursing assistant with Innercept. Born and raised in beautiful North Idaho, she has always had a passion to care for people, and is grateful to be part of such an awesome team in which to do that. Hobbies McKenna enjoys include hiking the local mountain trails, spending time with her daughter and fiancé, and camping whenever they can.

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                        Program Managers

                        Meagan Summering
                        Meagan Summering

                        Adolescent Transition Program Manager

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                          Meagan Summering moved to Coeur d’Alene in 2015 from Portland, Oregon. She joined the Innercept team shortly after, bringing with her more than fifteen years experience working with children, teens, and young adults. Meagan has grown with Innercept, and has worked on every campus, which has continued to fuel her passion for working with adolescents. With her sense of humor and ability to build rapport, she has helped strengthen the therapeutic environment that builds the groundwork for our resident’s futures. Meagan and the team helped launch a new chapter at Innercept, with the opening of the Adolescent Transition Program. This stepping stone on our resident’s path will help them to build confidence in the skills they have acquired at the adolescent intensive program. She is proud to be able to grow and learn with this program. In her free time, Meagan can be found out in nature with her two dogs, Roper and Oliver, or spending time with family and friends.

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                          KayLeigh Cook
                          KayLeigh Cook

                          Adolescent Program Manager

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                            KayLeigh was born and raised in Iowa before moving cross country to Coeur d’Alene in 2011. She began her journey as night staff at Innercept in 2014 where she developed a love for engaging with the residents and bringing laughter and organization to each house she worked in. Eventually, the management team decided KayLeigh’s natural gifts with kids could be put to more use as a lead staff member in the Adolescent Intensive Program where she could spend more time with the residents, expanding their skills while still allowing them to be kids. After several years thriving as a lead, KayLeigh returned to school where she is currently working towards a degree in social work to better help and understand today’s youth. In line with continuing her education, she has taken on the role of Adolescent Intensive Program Manager where she hopes to work with residents and their families to lay the groundwork for their futures. Outside of work and school, KayLeigh can be found with her four kids playing frisbee and golf or reading down by the lake.

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                            Shae Jaeger
                            Shae Jaeger

                            Crisis Manager

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                              Shae Jaeger grew up in the Pacific Northwest. While most of her career was spent in the financial industry, Shae’s experience working in two local schools ignited a passion for helping youth and young adults. As a volunteer fire fighter since 2013, Shae is required to respond immediately, and safely, adding to her relevant experience. Shae believes all these past life experiences make Innercept the perfect fit. At Innercept, Shae loves to work as a team and values making genuine connections. She is sure to remain calm and show kindness during a crisis. Outside of work, Shae enjoys spending time with her friends and family. She also enjoys reading, kayaking, paddle boarding and other outdoor activities.

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                              Joshua Lanier
                              Joshua Lanier

                              Patriot Power Up Program Manager

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                                Joshua’s experience spans roles from a Correctional Officer in a high-security psychiatric facility to a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Professor. These positions have sharpened Joshua’s leadership and strategic abilities, pivotal in his current role supporting veterans. Joshua’s commitment extends beyond his formal roles, particularly in assisting fellow veterans. His personal mission is to support veterans in accessing the treatment and care they need, driven by a deep understanding of their experiences and challenges.

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                                Academics

                                Kip Brierley, M.A.

                                Kip brings 25 years of experience as a secondary behavior intervention teacher in the Seattle area. She earned her undergraduate degree from Washington State University- the same school that her mother and father graduated from, and the school her son will be attending in the fall of 2024!

                                Kip earned her master’s degree in educational leadership with the intent of moving into administration. In 2018, her life took a sudden shift as she moved to Spokane to care for her aging mother and was unable to work full time. Kip taught online teacher education classes for GCU, CPR, first aid, and basic life support classes for the American Red Cross, and she helped her husband fulfill his lifelong dream of opening a record store.

                                Kip uses a positive behavior support model to support students’ academic, social, and emotional needs, a practice that works well with Innercept’s team approach.

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                                Denise O’Brien, B.A., M.S.

                                Denise received a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and Biology from Agnes Scott College and a Master of Science in Neuroscience Education from Nova Southeastern.

                                It has been Denise’s pleasure to work with young people her entire life. Denise and her husband were intensive treatment foster parents for many years and she also spent several years in high school teaching science, with her favorite subjects including chemistry, physics, human anatomy and physiology, and science and food. She recently left the traditional public education classroom and joined the Innercept team as a licensed educator. Denise finds her work here more personal and fulfilling, and it has renewed her passion for education.

                                When not teaching, Denise loves to travel and explore the outdoors including hiking parts of the Appalachian trail, boating in the Gulf of Alaska and camping on glaciers. She is looking forward to exploring more of Idaho and biking with her grandchild. Gardening and sewing fill her time in between adventures.

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                                Tina Wittenbrook, B.S., NCPT

                                My name is Tina Wittenbrock and I am originally from Jackson, California, a town with rich mining history located in the foothills of Northern California. 

                                 I moved to North Idaho in 1994, where I pursued my B.S. in Education from the University of Idaho. I have 18 years teaching experience (public school & mental health).  I also have 5 years of experience supporting, teaching and guiding youth struggling with developmental disability challenges.   

                                I enjoy continuing to learn in the field of mental health with an emphasis on adolescents. I have spent the last 2 years taking courses and learning about Trauma and Resilience, building positive cultures in a learning environment, as well as identifying and responding to trauma with evidence-based strategies. I have also worked for the past couple of years on obtaining National Certification as a Psychiatric Technician.  

                                In the winter, I enjoy skiing and attending hockey games with my husband and 2 teenagers. During the summer, we enjoy kayaking and riding bikes. One of my favorite trails to ride is The Hiawatha Trail. We enjoy traveling throughout the Pacific Northwest whether that be visiting National Parks or exploring the beaches of Washington and Oregon. 

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                                Lauri Goecke

                                Lauri is a fourth-generation North Idaho native from Post Falls, who brings a wealth of life experiences to her role as an educator at Innercept. With a heart dedicated to service, Lauri’s life journey has been marked by an unwavering commitment to others. As a mother of four young men—one of whom is Autistic—she embarked on a 15-year homeschooling journey, imparting knowledge and values, while fostering growth and independence.

                                Lauri’s dedication extends beyond her family, as she actively contributed to her community by teaching at a Homeschool co-op and serving as an Awana leader for over a decade. Her ability to nurture, encourage, and empower others sets her apart. Lauri’s diverse experiences and compassionate nature make her an ideal fit for the Innercept team.

                                Amid her devotion to community and family, Lauri loves spending time in the great outdoors, enjoying camping, hiking, and river adventures during the summer. She’s also a skilled archer, a music enthusiast, and values quality time spent with loved ones. 

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                                Anna Wright, B.A.
                                Anna Wright, B.A.

                                Activities Coordinator

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                                  Anna attended college in Northern Arizona where she majored in psychology and minored in criminal justice. In 2007, she moved to Coeur D’Alene, and in 2011 she began teaching a group fitness class. Anna quickly realized she had found what she was meant to do and never looked back.

                                  For the past 13 years, Anna has been working in the Coeur D’Alene community as a personal trainer and a group fitness instructor. During this time, she also ran a successful kids tumble program and was a wellness coach at a residential senior community.

                                  Anna has a real passion for health and wellness and helping people in all areas of life achieve goals and reach their full potential. She believes nutrition and exercise can be game changers in the mental health arena, and can truly change someone’s overall quality of life.

                                  Anna is also a mom to “3 amazing kiddos” and loves to hunt, run, lift weights and participate in group fitness.

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