Maitri Alaska Wellness LLC

"The land knows you, even when you are lost." The words of Robin Wall Kimmerer hold special meaning for those of us experiencing the unique challenges and richness of living in Alaska. Growing up in Southeast Alaska, working in the fields of outdoor education, advocacy, the arts, and mental health, and walking alongside Alaskans all across our state as they shared their stories and lived experiences have shaped my worldview, expertise, therapeutic approach, and commitment to supporting our youth. Maitrī is a Sanskrit word (pronounced like “my tree”) often translated as “loving-kindness,” “unconditional friendliness,” and, specifically, “unconditional acceptance and friendship with oneself.” My practice utilizes creativity and collaboration to empower, motivate, and support children and adolescents in the development of skills for self-regulation, improved relationships, achieving goals, and building self-worth and self-confidence. This is achieved by tailoring my approach to meet each client’s needs and interests through a variety of modalities with specific focus in experiential, strength-based, holistic, and trauma-informed therapies. Additionally, Maitri supports a systems approach and is committed to working with clients, their families, and others in their wellness team to creatively address concerns, develop goals, and learn strategies to navigate life transitions and work through their challenges and struggles. This team approach supports children and adolescents in exploring, developing, and strengthening a deeper connection with, and understanding of, their internal self and what it means to live their best life as they navigate the journey to greater mental health and wellness. "There are two gifts we should give our children; one is roots, and the other is wings." -Johann Wolfgang von Goethe