Meet Your Team of Teen Therapists
& Mental Health Specialists
Leadership Team
Andrea Burgess
Executive Director
Jennifer Hedrick, MS, LCMHC
Associate Executive Director, Clinical Director
Sarah Yardley
Admissions Director
Roni Smart
Admissions Coordinator
Lee Bingham
Equine Director
David Mosse
Recreation Director
Tamera Merkley
Performing Arts Director
Elizabeth Grant, M.Ed
Academic Director
Maria Elkington
Residential Director
Rashell Stubbs, LCMHC
Associate Clinical Director
Nate Marble
HR Director
Bre Englebrecht
Director of Utilization Review
Andrea Burgess
Executive Director
Andrea has always known that she would be involved in some aspect of therapeutic services. While pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Family Science at Brigham Young University, she volunteered at The Women’s and Children’s Crisis Center as well as the Utah Valley Crisis Line. Once she graduated from Brigham Young University, she completed a graduate certification from the University of Utah as a certified addictions counselor.Her 22-year journey in the adolescent treatment industry began as a direct care staff and then a supervisor in a Residential Treatment Center for adjudicated adolescent males. She was then promoted to the Director of Individual Residential Treatment, a program that is tasked with placing adjudicated males from a Residential Treatment Center setting into the homes of approved and trained families.Andrea then transferred to Redcliff Ascent, a premier therapeutic wilderness program for struggling teens. She began her role as a member of the Redcliff Ascent Management Team as a Parent Liaison and was promoted to Assistant Executive Director. In 2002, Andrea became the Executive Director of Redcliff Ascent and served in that capacity for 12 years. During her tenure as Redcliff Ascent’s Executive Director, she served as vice-chair for the Outdoor Behavioral Health Council from 2011 – 2013, an industry association that promotes program standards, ethics, and risk management as well as facilitating outcome research of the efficacy of wilderness programs.In the fall of 2011, Andrea co-founded Evolving Women, an industry association for women in the adolescent therapeutic industry. Evolving Women’s mission is to provide networking opportunities, professional development, and service. The organization continues to grow in membership and influence for some of the industry’s most talented women.In April of 2013, Andrea left her beloved post at Redcliff Ascent and was given the remarkable opportunity to lead a dynamic team as the Executive Director of Discovery Ranch for Girls. Set on a 66-acre ranch with a lake, riding arena, barn, and homey living spaces, Andrea began learning more about the intricacies of providing outstanding treatment a Residential Treatment setting.Andrea is dedicated to providing a program that is safe, therapeutic and effective for students and families. She and her husband have two boys, two dogs, and two cats and enjoy the outdoor life in Southern Utah.
Jennifer Hedrick, MS, LCMHC
Associate Executive Director, Clinical Director
Originally from Southern California, Jennifer came to Utah to attend both undergraduate and graduate school. She comes to Discovery Ranch South, after being an integral part of Moonridge Academy and RedCliff Ascent Wilderness Therapy where she served as Clinical Director in both programs. Prior to joining her previous teams, she spent 19 years in academia working in student development and counseling. While her experience has been diverse, Jennifer found her passion for working with teens in 2008. She finds joy in helping young people gain confidence in the understanding and expression of personal emotions. She enjoys helping teens navigate the difficult journey of self-discovery. Along that road, she finds opportunities to help with the following:
- Learning to integrate traumatic experiences into life, as well as letting go of the pain associated with these experiences (trauma recovery).
- Learning to achieve a positive self-identity as an LGBTQ+ teen.
- Gaining a positive body image and learning to have a healthy relationship with food.
- Learning to navigate relationships with a definite sense of self and appropriate boundaries.
Sarah Yardley
Admissions Director
Sarah began working at Discovery Ranch for Girls in 2015 as a Residential Mentor. She is glad for her time spent working directly with students and grateful for all that she has learned from her various positions. She has thoroughly enjoyed working with families in Admissions and is happy that she gets to continue in that role as the Admissions Director.Sarah herself is a mother and feels that she can put herself in the shoes of the parents who are making the difficult decision to place their child in a treatment facility. Her favorite part of working at Discovery Ranch for Girls is seeing the progress in the girls’ relationships, and the change in their demeanor as they go through the program and become strong, purposeful young women.
Roni Smart
Admissions Coordinator
After over a decade as a dedicated LPN, she has made it her mission to be a passionate mental health advocate, using her hands-on experience to make a real difference. As a wife and mother of two, she finds solace in the great outdoors. With a heart full of compassion and a drive to continually grow, she is excited to put her diverse skills and experiences to use supporting and uplifting others.
Lee Bingham
Equine Director
Lee Bingham is the Equine Director at Discovery Ranch South. Equine therapy can be a strong part of your teen's healing journey. There are many experiential learning opportunities at our more than 60 acre location! The students will have the chance to work with horses, calves, cooking, swimming, fishing, boating, climbing and ropes courses, yoga, hiking, winter activities and so much more.Lee has never known a life without horses or cattle. She was raised on a local ranch here in Cedar City, Utah. Taking the reins of her own horse, at three years old, sparked her love for these noble and trustworthy animals.Her rodeo career began at the age of nine, competing in junior rodeos, then on to high school and college. She earned two National High School Goat Tying Titles and one National College Title. Lee volunteers throughout the state offering private goat tying lessons to youth.She earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Southern Utah University in 2002.Lee values hard work, honesty, and integrity. She enjoys watching the students at the ranch develop these skills from working with the horses and calves. The most fulfilling piece of her job is watching the deep relationships the students build with the animals and waiting for that “in-the-moment” teaching experience to unfold between them.Lee loves spending time with her husband and their three boys. They enjoy working and riding on their ranch, farming, camping, fishing, hunting, team roping, golfing, and playing basketball and baseball.“We reach goals one step at a time. We cannot be perfect today or tomorrow but we can be better than we were yesterday.” —Author Unknown–
David Mosse
Recreation Director
David has been a member of Discovery Ranch South's team since May of 2016. Initially, David came to work at Discovery Ranch South as a mentor and was promoted to a position as a Residential Supervisor. David has always viewed the therapeutic process as being multi-faceted with adventure education being at the heart of the process of change that clients embark on while at Discovery Ranch for South. In 2009 he completed his Master’s degree which focused on the impact of adventure and challenged-based programming on the ability of adolescents to overcome diverse and challenging experiences. As Recreation Director David’s goal is to continue to enhance the effectiveness of programming through extensive collaboration with the clinical team as well as developing exciting adventure programming to such as skiing, snowboarding, winter sports, outdoor survival skills, extended river trips, climbing, and canyoneering trips. David views adventure education and peak experiences as effective means to truly empower the teens at Discovery Ranch South.Prior to joining the team at Discovery Ranch South, David established a strong reputation as a wilderness therapy professional and served as Field Director for New Vision Wilderness (NVW). Under his leadership at this nationally recognized wilderness treatment program, he proudly contributed to a 200 percent enrollment increase during his tenure through several program development initiatives, marketing, and outstanding communication with consultants, parents and most importantly, enrolled clients. In 2010 David moved to Ireland where he served as the Program Coordinator for the Arts for Peace Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to community outreach, development and the development of healthy recreational opportunities for Irish youth.When David is not leading groups of youth into the backcountry or facilitating activities, he enjoys rock climbing, whitewater kayaking, canyoneering, skiing, backpacking, and canoeing. David, his wife, and their dog – in the fall of 2016 – paddled 2300 miles from the source of the Mississippi in Northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.
Tamera Merkley
Performing Arts Director
Tamera has a lifetime of experience in Music, Theatre, and Dance. She has performed in over 50 stage productions, on multiple dance companies, as well as singing in professional venues stretching from Utah to New York City. Tamera studied Musical Theatre at Western Wyoming College and also attended Utah Valley University for her BFA in Modern Dance. She has been teaching studio dance for 8 years and private voice for 5 years. Tamera has directed and choreographed multiple Southern Utah professional theatre productions and has also enjoyed teaching and choreographing at many children’s theatres in the Western United States. Over the last few years Tamera has founded her own conservatory for performing arts and a non-profit theatre company where arts education and mentorship experiences are the keystones of her business model. Tamera also has a passion for the role arts can play in our healing. She believes in the power of expression as a means to release old emotions and patterns, and that the arts can help us to understand who we really are.
Elizabeth Grant, M.Ed
Academic Director
Elizabeth Grant has worked as the Academic Director at Discovery Ranch South for over five years and her cat, Kiwi, joins her at work occasionally. Her background includes supporting students with learning differences, giftedness and 2E (twice exceptional) for more than thirteen years in California and Colorado. Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Science in Mild/Moderate Special Education from Brigham Young University and earned a Master of Education in Prevention Science Practice from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education. Her particular focus has been on striving to mitigate anxiety in students with learning differences in order to support well-being and successful life transitions. Elizabeth is licensed through the Utah State Board of Education in Special Education for K-12+ with endorsements in Gifted and Talented Education. Traveling to visit her four children who live throughout the US, hot yoga, singing in choirs, cooking, hiking, art, gardening and local and worldwide explorations are all fun activities that Elizabeth enjoys.
Maria Elkington
Residential Director
Maria was born and raised in New Zealand, where she developed a passion for helping others. She pursued higher education in Hawaii, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. However, upon returning home to New Zealand, she discovered that social work wasn’t the right fit for her. She then got married, started a family, and decided to further her education, earning a Master’s degree in Counseling. Her career in counseling began in New Zealand, where she worked for several organizations and as a therapist at a community college. Later, she immigrated to America and served as a Mental Health Therapist for the State of Nevada, focusing on early childhood and working with children from birth to six years old who had been removed from their homes due to neglect and abuse. In 2010, Maria and her family moved to Cedar City, Utah, and they have loved every minute of it. After moving to Cedar City, Maria really found her niche in Residential Treatment, initially working as a Residential Staff member at a long term girls RTC. Over the past 14 years, she has held various positions, including Supervisor, Assistant Director, and Coordinator for several organizations specific to Residential work. Her journey in residential treatment has been incredibly fulfilling, and she is excited to bring my expertise to DRS.Maria's hope and goal is for Residential to provide a supportive environment where students can practice and master new skills they learn in therapy, equine therapy, calving, academics, experiential learning, and performing arts, all within a safe and nurturing setting. Recognizing that the majority of a student's day is with the residential team, Maria strives to elevate each team member to provide a nurturing environment where students can heal and grow. Additionally, she has 25 years of experience as a High School and College Basketball Official. The skills and training Maria has gained from officiating have greatly complemented her work in residential settings, and a great way for her to stay connected to a sport she loves.
Rashell Stubbs, LCMHC
Associate Clinical Director
Rashell has been with Discovery Ranch South since 2017 and became Assistant Clinical Director in 2021. Prior to joining the Discovery Ranch South team Rashell worked with adolescents since 2005 as a residential staff and therapist. Rashell graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling in 2008. She has worked primarily with adolescents during her career.She has experience working with youth who experience depression, anxiety, attachment challenges, trauma, and those with Autism. Rashell has completed the Level 1 Intensive Training for Radically Open DBT, and Phase 1 of Brainspotting. Rashell currently leads the RO DBT group and a Horsemanship Group.Rashell loves working at Discovery Ranch South. She loves to see the healing of the students and families. She is grateful and appreciates the opportunity to be a part of this process in the lives of students. Rashell’s background includes riding horses and raising livestock. Naturally one of her favorite things about Discovery Ranch South is the calf and equine program.Rashell is married, has three daughters and a dog, Posh, who comes to work with her each day. Outside of life at Discovery Ranch South, you will find Rashell spending time with her family at their cabin, on the lake, golfing or hiking in the many places that Southern Utah has to offer.
Nate Marble
HR Director
Nate Marble is the HR Director here at Discovery Ranch South. He has been involved in theatre arts and performing arts training in Utah, Arizona, and Nevada since 2010. Nate holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Classical Acting from Southern Utah University and a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. While at UNLV he taught on a collegiate level and developed a theatre arts program based on empathy, personal strengths, and realizing self-potential and character through the arts. Along with theatre arts, Nate has a background in music, dance, film, stage combat, directing, producing, theatre tech and voice acting. He enjoys that "click" moment when students can see that acting is more than just getting on stage and presenting a role, it's being able to master your own emotions and actions in order to put yourself in someone else's shoes and portray their point of view even though it might be separate from your own. He and his wife Katie spend most of their time chasing around their 4 daughters with all of their school activities.
Bre Englebrecht
Director of Utilization Review
Bre has worked in Behavioral Health for over 15 years. She has an extensive Utilization Review background working with some of the leading mental health organizations nationwide such as Newport Academy and Embark BH. Bre has served in various leadership capacities over the years and took part in building multiple short- and long-term programs as well as assisted with Joint Commission accreditations, audits, etc. She finds great joy serving others and has a growth mindset. She is passionate about advocating for insurance coverage and being a voice for clients and families alike. She is an active member in her community and enjoys volunteering with her children when able. Bre and her partner have three children and spend most of their time outdoors, hiking, fishing, off-roading and camping. Her greatest joy is when they are spending time together.
Clinical Team
Jennifer Hedrick, MS, LCMHC
Associate Executive Director, Clinical Director
Rashell Stubbs, LCMHC
Associate Clinical Director
Patrick Dotson, LCSW
Therapist
Morgan Eaton, LCMHC
Therapist
Kate Brannan, LCMHC
Therapist
Rye Fox, CSW
Therapist
Stephanie Lozano, MFT Intern
Therapist
Dawn Wright
Clinical Coordinator
Brett Talbot, Ph.D.
Director of Research & Quality / Consulting Licensed Psychologist
Jennifer Hedrick, MS, LCMHC
Associate Executive Director, Clinical Director
Originally from Southern California, Jennifer came to Utah to attend both undergraduate and graduate school. She comes to Discovery Ranch South, after being an integral part of Moonridge Academy and RedCliff Ascent Wilderness Therapy where she served as Clinical Director in both programs. Prior to joining her previous teams, she spent 19 years in academia working in student development and counseling. While her experience has been diverse, Jennifer found her passion for working with teens in 2008. She finds joy in helping young people gain confidence in the understanding and expression of personal emotions. She enjoys helping teens navigate the difficult journey of self-discovery. Along that road, she finds opportunities to help with the following:
- Learning to integrate traumatic experiences into life, as well as letting go of the pain associated with these experiences (trauma recovery).
- Learning to achieve a positive self-identity as an LGBTQ+ teen.
- Gaining a positive body image and learning to have a healthy relationship with food.
- Learning to navigate relationships with a definite sense of self and appropriate boundaries.
Rashell Stubbs, LCMHC
Associate Clinical Director
Rashell has been with Discovery Ranch South since 2017 and became Assistant Clinical Director in 2021. Prior to joining the Discovery Ranch South team Rashell worked with adolescents since 2005 as a residential staff and therapist. Rashell graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling in 2008. She has worked primarily with adolescents during her career.She has experience working with youth who experience depression, anxiety, attachment challenges, trauma, and those with Autism. Rashell has completed the Level 1 Intensive Training for Radically Open DBT, and Phase 1 of Brainspotting. Rashell currently leads the RO DBT group and a Horsemanship Group.Rashell loves working at Discovery Ranch South. She loves to see the healing of the students and families. She is grateful and appreciates the opportunity to be a part of this process in the lives of students. Rashell’s background includes riding horses and raising livestock. Naturally one of her favorite things about Discovery Ranch South is the calf and equine program.Rashell is married, has three daughters and a dog, Posh, who comes to work with her each day. Outside of life at Discovery Ranch South, you will find Rashell spending time with her family at their cabin, on the lake, golfing or hiking in the many places that Southern Utah has to offer.
Patrick Dotson, LCSW
Therapist
Born and raised against the picturesque backdrop of Cedar City, Utah, Patrick is deeply rooted in the values of community and family. From a young age, his surroundings shaped a sense of connection and responsibility, a foundation that would later influence his career path. As life unfolded, Patrick embraced the role of a committed spouse, finding joy and fulfillment in his marriage, blessed with the love of five wonderful children. Patrick’s academic journey began at Southern Utah University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Years later, at Utah State University, Patrick embarked on a transformative journey, earning a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. Since 2014, Patrick has been dedicated to the practice, consistently driven by a passion for helping others navigate the challenges of life. As a therapist, Patrick has honed his skills through diverse experiences and continuous learning. Patrick’s commitment to excellence is reflected in his certifications as an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and HeartMath (neurofeedback) therapist. These specialized certifications underscore his dedication to employing cutting-edge, evidence-based therapeutic techniques in his practice. Patrick’s expertise extends across various domains, including addiction, attachment, family systems, depression, anxiety, experiential therapy, and group work. The extensive training in these areas allows him to approach therapy with a holistic perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of mental health and personal relationships. In the realm of addiction, Patrick has worked tirelessly to understand the nuances of this complex struggle, providing individuals with the support and tools needed for recovery. Patrick’s focus on attachment and family issues reflect a commitment to healing not only the individual but the broader context of their relationships and support systems. Addressing mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety, Patrick draws upon a wealth of knowledge and therapeutic modalities to tailor interventions to the unique needs of each client. The integration of experiential therapy allows for a dynamic and engaging approach, fostering personal growth and self-discovery. Group work holds a special place in Patrick’s practice, recognizing the power of shared experiences and communal support. Through carefully facilitated group sessions, Patrick creates an environment where individuals can connect, share, and learn from one another, enhancing the therapeutic process. In essence, Patrick’s professional journey is a testament to a lifelong commitment to the well-being of others. Grounded in the values instilled during his upbringing in Cedar City, Patrick’s path has been one of continuous growth, education, and service. As a therapist, Patrick is not only dedicated to alleviating immediate struggles but also fostering lasting transformations in the lives of those he has the privilege to assist. When Patrick is not at work, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family traveling either to sporting events or new places.
Morgan Eaton, LCMHC
Therapist
Morgan received two Master’s degrees in Mental Health Counseling and Education from the University of Florida. She specializes in working with children, teens, and their families struggling with trauma, anxiety, body image, disrupted attachments, substance abuse, autism spectrum disorder, neurodiversity, and truancy in school and community settings. Morgan is versed in a variety of interventions including dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), brainspotting, play-based therapies, trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, ecotherapy, attachment therapies, and relational therapies. Along with her clinical work she has experience as a supervisor, gymnastics coach, hall director, crisis intervention trainer, and collegiate competitive pole vaulter. Morgan is an explorer at heart whether that be trying a new sport or watching the latest Studio Ghibli movie. She enjoys gymnastics, anime, hiking, horseback riding, volleyball, board games, art and cosplay. She enjoys adventuring with her husband, friends, family, and her parrot Kiwi.
Kate Brannan, LCMHC
Therapist
Kate received her Bachelor's degree in Social Work in 2010 and worked as a Social Worker in community mental health settings while working on her master's degree. She received a Master’s degree in Counseling in 2014 from Saint Edward’s University in Austin, Texas and became a licensed counselor in 2015. Before coming to Discovery Ranch South, Kate worked with adults and teens suffering from severe mental illnesses in psychiatric hospitals, prisons, and community settings. Kate has experience providing individual, group, and family counseling in the areas of adjustment disorders, low self-esteem, body image and identity, gender dysphoria, suicidality, unhealthy relationships, anger, anxiety, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, major depression, and psychosis. Kate pulls from multiple modalities in therapy including trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, family systems, and experiential therapy. She also worked as an art teacher for five years and has experience working with adolescents who receive special education services for learning disabilities, autism and emotional disturbances. Kate firmly believes in showing up as her authentic self and guiding others to find their authentic selves. She is passionate about helping others find their truth and learn how to communicate who they are in a healthy way. Families are an integral part of the recovery process and Kate is so thankful for the opportunity to work with the whole family system at Discovery Ranch. Kate is married and has two kids and a sweet Shih Tzu dog. When not working with youth, Kate enjoys painting, crafting, baking and traveling around the world.
Rye Fox, CSW
Therapist
Rye’s career in mental health began as a wilderness field instructor in North Carolina. Although it was always evident that Rye would find a place in the mental health field, it was the students in this program that ignited a deeper passion for working with substance use disorders and adolescents, as well as experiential, adventure, and eco therapies. With a clear direction, Rye went back to school to study Clinical Social Work with a Substance Use Disorder certification and received their CSW from University of Kentucky in 2023.
Rye came to Discovery Ranch South after working in both outpatient therapy and residential substance use treatment centers. From non-profit addiction treatment centers where clients worked to reintegrate from extensive prison sentences or whose substance addiction resulted in being unhoused for 20+ years, to one of the top luxury rehabs in the country, Rye brings a wide range of experience and methodologies for working with individuals, families, substance use disorders and dual diagnosis. Through the use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), somatic therapy work, and an array of experiential techniques, Rye helps clients identify their core values and establish a path toward becoming the person they want to be.
Rye also firmly believes in the importance of fun in recovery and its vital role in fostering intrinsic motivation and creating a life worth living. You can see this belief extend to their personal life in Rye's adventurous nature and ever-growing list of hobbies. Whether hopping from one Dave Matthews Band concert to the next, playing music themselves, painting, tattooing, hiking, camping, or training for their next trail marathon, rest assured that Rye and their dog, Binks, are always finding new ways to incorporate fun, challenging, and rewarding experiences to both their lives and the lives of others.
Rye came to Discovery Ranch South after working in both outpatient therapy and residential substance use treatment centers. From non-profit addiction treatment centers where clients worked to reintegrate from extensive prison sentences or whose substance addiction resulted in being unhoused for 20+ years, to one of the top luxury rehabs in the country, Rye brings a wide range of experience and methodologies for working with individuals, families, substance use disorders and dual diagnosis. Through the use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), somatic therapy work, and an array of experiential techniques, Rye helps clients identify their core values and establish a path toward becoming the person they want to be.
Rye also firmly believes in the importance of fun in recovery and its vital role in fostering intrinsic motivation and creating a life worth living. You can see this belief extend to their personal life in Rye's adventurous nature and ever-growing list of hobbies. Whether hopping from one Dave Matthews Band concert to the next, playing music themselves, painting, tattooing, hiking, camping, or training for their next trail marathon, rest assured that Rye and their dog, Binks, are always finding new ways to incorporate fun, challenging, and rewarding experiences to both their lives and the lives of others.
Stephanie Lozano, MFT Intern
Therapist
Stephanie Lozano is currently working on her internship for her Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University. Before coming to Discovery Ranch, she served in the United States Army while working on her Master's degree. Before the Army, Stephanie worked as a first responder and backcountry guide.She has worked with adolescents from all different backgrounds in numerous settings- from Substitute teaching, and after-school programming to Girl Scouts. Stephanie has always had a passion for understanding people and holds the belief that deep connections and healing can occur from empowering those she works with. Stephanie believes that when young people can take power in being the author of their own story, there is no limit to what they can accomplish.She hopes to utilize her background in the military and first response to provide trauma-informed care for children and their families. Stephanie also has a special interest in Socio-Culturally Attuned Solution-Focused family therapy, in working with her clients. She implements Narrative Therapy in her work with clients and families and sees how this can be implemented for long-term change.Stephanie loves to help students find peace, hope, confidence, and self-acceptance while they are at Discovery Ranch South.When not working or studying, Stephanie can be found climbing, running, and exploring her new home in Utah with her partner and their two dogs.
Dawn Wright
Clinical Coordinator
Dawn has worked at Discover Ranch South since 2015. She started as a residential mentor, and then a year later she became a residential supervisor. Dawn has been a Residential Supervisor since 2016, and has enjoyed getting to see so many students graduate and lead successful lives after DRS. In 2023 Dawn accepted a position as the Clinical Coordinator and assists the Clinical team in many capacities. Dawn believes in the work we do here at DRS and has enjoyed seeing the students learn and grow into healthy young people and adults. Originally from California, Dawn moved to Cedar City in 2005 and has loved making Utah her home. In her free time, Dawn enjoys spending time with her two adult sons and her two grandchildren. She also loves to find time to go on trips and adventures, usually to a beach somewhere.
Brett Talbot, Ph.D.
Director of Research & Quality / Consulting Licensed Psychologist
Dr. Brett Talbot, PhD is a licensed Psychologist and the Senior Director of Research and Quality at the Ascent Programs. Prior, Dr. Talbot was a Chief Clinical Officer and an Executive Clinical Director for residential group practices.Brett is certified in both Project Management and Lean Six Sigma Healthcare Management. Administratively he specializes in program development, performance improvement, quality assurance, and risk management. Clinically he specializes in working with treatment teams struggling with youth who are treatment resistant and/or requiring specialized services (e.g. Stabilization, Testing/Assessment, substance use programming, Neuro/bio-feedback, etc.).Brett’s research has focused on program design for adolescent wilderness and residential treatment programs, emphasizing the effective integration of the family into treatment; and family functioning related to adolescent and young adult health risk behaviors. Brett also has experience in several settings such as Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children’s Hospital adolescent disordered eating, DeBakey VA Hospital, Behavioral Consultants/Methodist Hospital, and several college counseling centers.Brett is a faculty member at Utah Valley University and has a private practice focused on psychological consultation and testing. Brett’s is fun, easy to talk to, and is an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hiking, camping, backpacking, fly fishing, and anything that gets him out into nature. Brett is married and has 3 children.
Academic Team
Elizabeth Grant, M.Ed
Academic Director
Jessica Bulloch
Special Education Coordinator
Jade Barney
Assistant Special Education Coordinator
Denise Workman
Academic Coordinator
Micah Baker
Social Studies Teacher/Academic Experiential Director
Hailee Rogers
Science Teacher
Justin Call
English Teacher
Braeden Dix
Math Teacher
Elizabeth Grant, M.Ed
Academic Director
Elizabeth Grant has worked as the Academic Director at Discovery Ranch South for over five years and her cat, Kiwi, joins her at work occasionally. Her background includes supporting students with learning differences, giftedness and 2E (twice exceptional) for more than thirteen years in California and Colorado. Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Science in Mild/Moderate Special Education from Brigham Young University and earned a Master of Education in Prevention Science Practice from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education. Her particular focus has been on striving to mitigate anxiety in students with learning differences in order to support well-being and successful life transitions. Elizabeth is licensed through the Utah State Board of Education in Special Education for K-12+ with endorsements in Gifted and Talented Education. Traveling to visit her four children who live throughout the US, hot yoga, singing in choirs, cooking, hiking, art, gardening and local and worldwide explorations are all fun activities that Elizabeth enjoys.
Jessica Bulloch
Special Education Coordinator
Jessica has worked at Discovery Ranch for Girls for many years. She loves working with students and their families. She loves to swim, to be near the water, to travel, and to have her grandkids over so that she can spoil them.
Jade Barney
Assistant Special Education Coordinator
Jade is the special education aide at Discovery Ranch for Girls. She is currently attending Southern Utah University to earn her degree in Education with a Special Education emphasis.Jade has learned a lot throughout her years at the ranch. She has learned about how to provide aid to students with various emotional disabilities. She loves working with the students at DRG and has enjoyed gaining special education experience. Jade grew up in Cedar City and enjoyed exploring and experiencing the natural beauties found in Southern Utah.
Denise Workman
Academic Coordinator
Denise works as the Academic Coordinator at Discovery Ranch South in Cedar City, Utah. In 1991, she graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education - High Honors. Denise began her career at Discovery Ranch as a Science/Math Tutor and quickly became an avid believer in the program and its broader focus on restoring students and families to healthy, purposeful relationships. As a previous teacher of elementary, middle school, and high school students, her goal now is to develop relationships with students and support the academic staff while they support students with their academic goals. As a former creator and CEO of medium-sized corporation, Denise has experience with best practices as well as streamlining processes that can be applied to academic settings. She understands the key role that communication plays with all staff at Discovery Ranch South as well as with parents of our students. When not working at the ranch, Denise enjoys gardening, cooking, baking, and eating. She also enjoys traveling to visit her children and grandchildren scattered throughout the western states when she is not camping up in the beautiful Utah mountains.
Micah Baker
Social Studies Teacher/Academic Experiential Director
Micah Baker is the Social Studies Teacher/Academic Experiential Director at Discovery Ranch for Girls. She obtained her Bachelors of Science in History Education from Southern Utah University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2012. Micah has been with the Ranch from the beginning and loves sharing her passion for learning with her students. She is also the Academic Experiential Director. Some of her favorite activities have been: building and launching model rockets, teaching Braille, discovering the wide world of origami, exploring animation and Skyping with legendary animator Don Bluth, creating Medieval coat of arms, and helping students foster of love of Shakespeare by attending an all-day field trip to Cedar City’s Shakespeare Festival. When she isn’t teaching, Micah can often be found folding paper for her latest origami creation or solving puzzles. She is also quite the connoisseur of movies and enjoys finding lesser-known films to add to her eclectic collection. We are excited to share that Micah won the 2015 NATSAP Service Award! We shared more details about this accomplishment on our blog: Micah Baker 2015 NATSAP Service Award.
Hailee Rogers
Science Teacher
Hailee Rogers is a science tutor for Discovery Ranch for Girls. She graduated with a degree in Biology in 2014. After working for several years in the biomedical field, she decided to start a career in education. She is in the process of getting her teaching certification. She loves to travel and has lived in several states including Idaho, Nevada, Minnesota, California, and Utah. Hailee loves spending time with her family and fur babies, playing music, and learning new things. Hailee brings her enthusiasm for science and love of learning to the students at DRG!
Justin Call
English Teacher
Justin Call is the English Language Arts and Creative Writing teacher for Discovery Ranch South. He earned his bachelor's degree from BYU-Idaho in 2007 and graduated from Harvard University in 2012 with a Master's in Literature and Creative Writing. Before teaching at DRS, Justin spent nearly a decade privately tutoring online students before eventually becoming an adjunct lecturer for Southern Utah University. In collaboration with SUU and the Success Academy, Justin taught both college students and high school students seeking to earn college credit. After a brief period working as a behavior technician, Justin joined DRS in March of 2024 and has been loving this opportunity to make an even greater impact on the lives of his students. Outside of his passion for teaching and learning, Justin is also a board game designer and the author of an award-winning dark epic fantasy series: The Silent Gods. As a neurodivergent logophile, Justin is always excited to share his enthusiasm for reading, writing, and rhetoric with his students.
Braeden Dix
Math Teacher
I’m Braeden, a math teacher with a background in accounting. At DRS, I bring a practical, real-world approach to teaching mathematics, helping students connect what they learn in the classroom to future career opportunities outside of it.I’m committed to fostering a positive, engaging learning environment where students can develop both their academic skills and their confidence. My goal is to equip students with the tools they need for future success tailored to their unique abilities. Outside of teaching, I have a strong interest in athletics and reading, and I continually seek to grow professionally by exploring new educational strategies.
Medical Team
Ryan Williams, MD
Psychiatrist
Jake Roberts
APRN
Amanda Twichell, RN
Lead Nurse
Celeste Sorensen, RN
Nurse
Ryan Williams, MD
Psychiatrist
Dr. Williams is a highly trained child and adolescent psychiatrist with board certification in the fields of General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. While not currently practicing pediatrics, he is also board certified as a pediatrician and has fellowship training in child abuse and neglect. He has trained with prominent national leaders and approaches psychiatry from a developmental perspective, seeing in his patients not only their current difficulties but also their long-term potential. Dr. Williams has focused his career on treating severe but correctable maladies. He views medication as an important tool in treatment but one that is best used temporarily, while internal regulatory capacities are developed. Personally, Dr. Williams is a true academic, who enjoys learning about the complexities of life in general and the human experience more specifically.
Jake Roberts
APRN
Jacob “Jake” Roberts has worked in the psychiatric medical field for the last 12 years. While he earned his Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Degree at the University of Utah, he worked at the behavioral health unit in the IHC Hospital in St. George Utah and the LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City Utah.He has worked in multiple levels of behavioral health treatment settings including inpatient, outpatient, wilderness and a number of residential programs. He has grown to love treating the adolescent and young adult population and customizes every treatment plan to their situation.His theory on medication management is to use the least amount of medication possible to stabilize the individual. This, in turn, allows the patient to develop appropriate coping skills and do not always have to rely on medication to solve the problem at hand.He is also licensed in the State of Nevada where he serves the underprivileged population in Southern Nevada.While he’s not treating patients, he spends his time outdoors, either hiking, mountain biking, or boating. He especially enjoys spending time with his young grandchildren.
Amanda Twichell, RN
Lead Nurse
Amanda is a native of Cedar City, Utah, and grew up enjoying all the wonders of Southern Utah. Amanda graduated from Southern Utah University nursing program with a Bachelor of Science in nursing. Before pursuing a career in nursing, Amanda was a master esthetician and loved taking care of people and helping them to feel more comfortable in their own skin. Making a switch to a career in nursing has allowed Amanda to care for others in a holistic way. Amanda started at Discovery Ranch South as a licensed practical nurse in 2021 and was promoted to Lead Nurse in 2022. Amanda plans to return back to school in 2024 to pursue a psychiatric nurse practitioner to continue her passion for mental health. When she isn’t working, she enjoys hiking and photography, spending time with her 3 cats, and hoping people will allow her to re-decorate their offices.
Celeste Sorensen, RN
Nurse
Celeste Sorensen received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing in 1994 from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Prior to joining Discovery Ranch South, she worked in dialysis. At the start of the pandemic, Celeste volunteered to travel to Brooklyn, New York, where she cared for Covid-19 patients requiring dialysis. To this day, it is the most rewarding nursing experience of her career.Prior to working in dialysis, Celeste was employed at St. Luke’s Regional Medical Center in Boise, Idaho, in the Medical Oncology unit. She obtained her Oncology Nursing Certification caring for Medical Oncology, Palliative, and Hospice patients. She worked on the core team caring for Autologous stem cell transplant patients, in ICU and CCU and served on the Organ Donor Requestor team, which was nationally recognized for advocating for tissue and organ donations. Celeste was selected to participate in St. Luke’s Nursing Research Program. Together with her mentor, Shoni Davis, they published a nursing research article in the Oncology Nursing Forum Journal.Celeste volunteers with the American Legion Auxiliary Post 74, is a committee member for Cedar City, Utah, Wreaths Across America, and the Southern Utah Reserve Corps.When she is not working, Celeste is often found gardening, and spending time with her extended family and dog, Dude. She enjoys the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and traveling.
Residential And Management Team
Maria Elkington
Residential Director
Shauna Clark
Residential Training Coordinator
Shayna Griffin
Residential Student Support Coordinator
Kimberlee Martineau
Residential Facilities Coordinator
David McGrew
Maintenance Supervisor
Maria Elkington
Residential Director
Maria was born and raised in New Zealand, where she developed a passion for helping others. She pursued higher education in Hawaii, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. However, upon returning home to New Zealand, she discovered that social work wasn’t the right fit for her. She then got married, started a family, and decided to further her education, earning a Master’s degree in Counseling. Her career in counseling began in New Zealand, where she worked for several organizations and as a therapist at a community college. Later, she immigrated to America and served as a Mental Health Therapist for the State of Nevada, focusing on early childhood and working with children from birth to six years old who had been removed from their homes due to neglect and abuse. In 2010, Maria and her family moved to Cedar City, Utah, and they have loved every minute of it. After moving to Cedar City, Maria really found her niche in Residential Treatment, initially working as a Residential Staff member at a long term girls RTC. Over the past 14 years, she has held various positions, including Supervisor, Assistant Director, and Coordinator for several organizations specific to Residential work. Her journey in residential treatment has been incredibly fulfilling, and she is excited to bring my expertise to DRS.Maria's hope and goal is for Residential to provide a supportive environment where students can practice and master new skills they learn in therapy, equine therapy, calving, academics, experiential learning, and performing arts, all within a safe and nurturing setting. Recognizing that the majority of a student's day is with the residential team, Maria strives to elevate each team member to provide a nurturing environment where students can heal and grow. Additionally, she has 25 years of experience as a High School and College Basketball Official. The skills and training Maria has gained from officiating have greatly complemented her work in residential settings, and a great way for her to stay connected to a sport she loves.
Shauna Clark
Residential Training Coordinator
Shauna Clark was born and raised in the Cedar City area. She has worked in residential treatment starting as a mentor back in 2014 with DRS. As of 2024, she now leads as the Residential Training Coordinator and is tasked with guiding and shaping the ethics, progress, and training of our Residential staffing teams. Additionally, she has experience as a Neurofeedback Technician. She has been trained to use technology and neuroimaging in creating neuro pathways as a treatment approach for dysregulation in the brain that can come with depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc.When not on campus, Shauna spends her time outdoors being active and taking advantage of the West in all its adventuring opportunities. Shauna goes snowmobiling in the winter months and enjoys riding dirt bikes and horses in the summer months. Presently, Shauna’s favorite aspect of working in her position is getting to not only support the growth of our clients but also our staff. She values and leans into the process of walking with and shaping our large DRS team through our continuous improvement initiatives, and basis of accountability.
Shayna Griffin
Residential Student Support Coordinator
Shayna began working at DRS in 2015 as a mentor and has worked in various positions in the residential world since then. Adopted from China at the age of 2, Shayna grew up as the middle child among a family of 17 siblings, most of whom have special needs. This unique upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of empathy and resilience. Shayna embarked on her professional journey in working in residential treatment, determined to make a difference in the lives of others. She aspires to be a beacon of positivity in the healing process, leveraging her experiences to bring about meaningful change. Outside of work, Shayna finds solace in family life, being happily married with two children. She cherishes moments spent outdoors, indulging in her passions for camping, fishing, and enjoying the serene beauty of Southern Utah. Shayna's commitment to empathy, resilience, and creating positive change underscores her inspiring journey and the impact she seeks to make in both personal and professional realms.
Kimberlee Martineau
Residential Facilities Coordinator
David McGrew
Maintenance Supervisor
David is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He has lived in Utah for the past 15 years with his wife Janet and two daughters. For the past 13 years, David has created all the landscaping on the property along with maintaining it for the previous owners. Discovery Ranch South invited him to stay on and continue keeping the grounds looking like a tranquil resort with the flowing streams and beautifully trimmed green lawns. Being from Louisiana, David is a die-hard LSU fan! From time to time, you may even see an LSU Tiger flag flying above his residence. His favorite past times are golf, playing with his grandchildren, starting new landscaping projects on the ranch and of course Cajun food!
Chef & Culinary Arts
Sam Slade
Nutrition Director
Sarah Benson
Nutrition Assistant
Sam Slade
Nutrition Director
Sam Slade graduated with her bachelors in human nutrition from Southern Utah University in 2022. While pursuing her degree, Sam fell in love with the science of nutrition and became experienced in the field by working as a dietary aid. As a student, Sam also worked with the University's HOPE (Help Our People Eat) Pantry to ensure all students had access to food and hygiene products. Sam went on to create meal plans to aid the school's diverse student population in making sure they got the nutrition they needed during a pivotal transition in their lives. Sam is devoted to using her in-depth knowledge of food science and intuitive eating to improve other's relationship with food. Sam began working at Discovery Ranch South in 2021 and has been passionate about bringing the joys of food and nutrition to the students in the program. Sam is excited to continue doing so as the program's Nutrition Director.
Sarah Benson
Nutrition Assistant
Equine Team
Tex
Equine Team - (Advanced)
Carmel
Equine Team - (medium- advanced)
Martin
Equine Team - (Grounds-Intermediate-Advanced)
Appy
Equine Team - (Grounds - Intermediate-Advanced)
Fred and Ed
Equine Team - (Grounds)
Sir Henry
Sir Henry
Pendeton
Equine Team
Norman
Equine Team
Maple
Equine Team
Lewie
Equine Team
Jeff
Equine Team
Jasper
Equine Team
Tex
Equine Team - (Advanced)
Tex – Another of our males, came to work here at Discovery Ranch for Girls with his own history of abuse and maltreatment. Not much is known specifically about Tex’s abuse other than it left this beautiful horse, with little to no belief in himself. Tex resembles a lot of the girls who come here to Discovery Ranch for Girls; two individuals who are very capable, yet unable to see their full potential. Tex needs the belief, the trust, and vision of another to live up to his potential. His struggles allow him to help our girls. It is wonderful to see how the two grow together. The miracle doesn’t just happen in an instant. It takes a lot of time, patience, and understanding based on a strong foundation of respect. Tex pays off your daughter’s willingness and determination handsomely with what can only be described as the “perfect ride.”
Carmel
Equine Team - (medium- advanced)
Carmel is a 5 year old female and a true teenager at heart. She loves to have things her way. Carmel could be described as being nosy; she loves being the center of attention and can be quite dramatic. She often invites herself to situations without having been asked. If she could talk, I think she would say she hates boundaries and rules. Carmel argues. She pushes limits and rebels against anyone who tries to use a heavy hand. She resembles so many of our girls and it is interesting to watch as the girls learn about themselves through the struggles they have in working with her.
Martin
Equine Team - (Grounds-Intermediate-Advanced)
Martin was raised at a performance horse facility here in a rural part of Utah. He comes from a long line of working cow and performance horses. The facility he came from is known for their high quality horses. The underlying fact that makes Martin’s background so neat, is he was ridden and trained not only by a professional rodeo cowboy, but as well as young men that are learning their own ropes at their own residential treatment center. Martin came to us by what we see as fate. He had a little of what we would call, a strange gait… which means he probably wouldn’t have made the cut as a performance horse… which then led him to us. He was then donated to Discovery Ranch for Girls, and fit the part almost immediately. His pretty coat and curious personality draws many students to him. Martin is one of our young guns here on the ranch. Don’t let his young age fool you though… he is very well knowledgeable of his work here. He allows the girls to see that too much pressure isn’t always the answer, and not enough, doesn’t suffice, either. He gives them the opportunity to see that soft hands, and a calm presence are much more rewarding than not. Martin’s curiosity really allows movement in our grounds groups… But if not directed in the right way, Martin has a way of showing that if the path is not quite right for him, he isn’t going to take it.
Appy
Equine Team - (Grounds - Intermediate-Advanced)
Appy has been good friends with Martin for a couple of years prior to Discovery Ranch for Girls, as they were pastured together at the same facility. As fate would have it, we got a call a couple months after receiving Martin, in which Appy was in need of a new home. We welcomed him with open arms. He is an appaloosa, with a very distinct snow capped coat, with soft brown eyes. His looks alone draw students to him. Although a little stand offish at first, Appy has a very soft spot for building relationships. He stands off in the distance, waiting for someone to take the first step in building that relationship with him. He is often overlooked because of his shy nature, but opens up with trust. He offers the students a unique experience once they take that chance on him.
Fred and Ed
Equine Team - (Grounds)
Fred and Ed bring variety and fun to Discovery Ranch for Girls. These two little miniature donkeys provide such a unique dynamic to our grounds group. In 2017, we picked these little guys up here in Southern Utah to kind of use as a “test run”. We had only ever had horses, and weren’t quite sure what mini donkeys would bring to the table. They have now exceeded our expectations, and more. At first, Fred and Ed had no trust in humans. They were scared, easily frightened, and would never separate from one another. It was easy for them to take the “flight” mode in hopes that no interaction would happen between them and anyone else. Over time, the donkeys have evolved from being terrified little creatures, to incredibly accepting animals. With a lot of use, human interaction, love, and of course, treats, the donkeys have formed an incredible trust in students. Although… that trust is not incredibly easy to gain. They are very receptive to clear and precise communication and guidelines. If that clear communication is not there, Fred and Ed have a very good way of showing that they do not understand. They provide so much movement in the grounds group when asked correctly. Fred and Ed now have established enough rapport with everyone, that they feel comfortable enough to be guided and directed individually. It took some time for them to be comfortable without one another, but because of the gentle acts and kindness that the girls have showed them, they truly know they are safe here at Discovery Ranch for Girls.
Sir Henry
Sir Henry
Sir Henry is a huge addition to Discovery Ranch for Girls. And when we say huge, we aren’t kidding. Sir Henry is an English Shire… one of the biggest breeds of horses. Sir Henry was donated to us by a local family who owns and raises English Shire Horses. The Diamond Z English Shire Hitch travels all over the United States to perform in shows, rodeos, and parades. Sir Henry sustained an injury to his shoulder that would hinder him from being able to be a part of the hitch, so we were lucky enough to take him in. He is truly the definition of a gentle giant. Although his back stands above the highest fence rail, he doesn’t let his size get in his way. Sir Henry adds a unique feel to the horses of Discovery Ranch for Girls, because he is the only one of his kind and stature on the ranch. For the students here, it is neat for them to look at Sir Henry and know that it is okay to stand out, and to be different. Sir Henry actually shares a pasture with our miniature horse Dora, and the miniature donkeys, Fred & Ed. You can just imagine that picture. Having them all together, with all of their different sizes, personalities, and species, really creates an accepting atmosphere. We have plenty of ideas for the big guy here at Discovery Ranch for Girls, and we can’t wait to share them with you.
Pendeton
Equine Team
Norman
Equine Team
Maple
Equine Team
Lewie
Equine Team
Jeff
Equine Team
Jasper
Equine Team