Skill Development Providers

Hello, my name is Caroline!

I am from central Wisconsin and raised on a dairy farm with my four brothers and one sister. From a young age us children had our own barn chores and tasks around the house. My parents taught us strong faith filled values and also good work ethics that I am thankful for today! 

When I was preteen my family went through challenges where I suffered from trauma and brought my solid world crashing down, which I then struggled for years remembering my happy early childhood. After years of searching and healing and working through past trauma I am thankful that today I can say my family is back to being ‘healthy’ again. I have also personally navigated cultural differences and have learned how to embrace confidence in myself and be able to do hard things. From my childhood experiences and learning self-worth it has become a passion to help and support others to be the best version of themselves and being able to overcome the challenges in their lives. 

I have been with Strides since 2022 offering skill development services. I have expanded my knowledge in the mental health field and have experience in working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, mood disorder, parent psychoeducation, trauma and substance abuse. Working with the many various cases and being there to assist, guide and support individuals who are struggling has been both rewarding and fulfilling. I look forward to continuing to grow my knowledge and being able to assist each individual to live their best lives!

Some of my favorite things to do in my free time are:

• Hiking, kayaking, swimming or anything outdoors.
• Arts and crafts, anything creative.
• Reading upbuilding, positive books. 
• Gardening, cooking, baking and making espresso coffee. 

Service Array: Individual Skills Development and Enhancement and Psychoeducation 

Hello! My name is Gayle. I was an elementary educator for 35 years and retired at the end of the school year in May of 2022. I obtained my BS Degree (1986) in Elementary Education K-8 and a Master in Science Teaching degree (1991) from the UW-Eau Claire. My love for learning did not end there as I continued to expand my knowledge of working with kids through professional workshops/training, reading professional books and joining book club discussions throughout my entire teaching career.. 

I have had many different life experiences in working with kids over my 35 years of teaching. During my career, I have educated students from preschool through the 3rd grade level, but I have interacted with kids at all ages as my school district was PreK-Grade 12. I have been told that I have the patience of a saint. I find it relatively easy to talk to and to connect with children as well as with adults. I know and understand the importance of building a genuine bond with the individuals that I work with. I enjoyed my teaching career immensely and have been truly blessed with the students, parents, coworkers and the community that I have worked in. I have been working with Strides since August of 2022 and truly enjoy the new challenge. I have gained new experiences and knowledge in working with clients dealing with high anxiety, depression and suicide. I have also worked on promoting self-care by promoting healthy eating, hobbies and physical activity.  

I have been happily married for 27 years and have 3 amazing adult children. We all love the outdoors and have taken many family trips together to WI state parks and our beautiful national parks. Some of my favorite hobbies are hiking, kayaking, fishing, camping, rock collecting, baking, gardening, playing cards and board games and artsy projects. I also enjoy pets as I have 3 entertaining cats and one very lovable dog.

Service Array: Individual Skills Development and Enhancement and Psychoeducation 

~Outdoor Activities

~At-Risk Adolescents

~Youth and Adolescent Guidance 

~Resilience Support 

Hello, my name is Justine! I love using my certified emotional support dog to help those in need! I grew up around family members who struggled with mental illness. This created a desire to learn how to help people in those same situations. I Started with nannying jobs for children who had hearing impairments and autism. In the healthcare field I began as a CNA, and then moved on to being a Respite provider, before realizing my life experiences could be perfectly suited for helping others with Skill development work. Recently, I began to work as a parent coach. I have a goal to complete the Peer Specialist Certification in order to extend help to more adults who have experienced similar challenges and trauma. 

In my life I have had the benefit of others’ compassion, patience, love and kindness when I’ve needed healing the most. I’ve learned to use my mental perseverance caring for others and I’m passionate about using the same effort I was given into helping each person who crosses my path.

    While working as a CNA I had the opportunity to work in the psych ward, dementia units, nursing home and rehabilitation units. Through this I’ve obtained my CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) certificate and have learned to see things from my clients’ perspectives. I currently work with Luna (pictured), an emotional support dog, who I love to bring along with me to help my clients. 

    In my spare time I am a mother of a toddler who is right by my side as much as possible! He is definitely a momma’s boy! Typically, you can find us on a lake kayaking/paddle boarding, playing in the dirt with Tonka trucks, watering our garden or playing at the park. In addition to that, I set aside time for myself around nature, music and singing, outdoor activities, working out and doing art projects! I enjoy what life has to offer and am grateful to have additional opportunities to help others do the same!

Service Array: Individual Skills Development and Enhancement and Psychoeducation 

~Outdoor Activities

~At-Risk Adolescents

~Youth and Adolescent Guidance 

~Resilience Support 

~Parenting Support

Hello there, my name is Rebekah!

I grew up alongside one older sister and was raised by parents that taught me the importance of faith and integrity, of which these values have greatly shaped and impacted my life.  Things were not always easy, and I endured many challenges with friendships, family, and identity.  

Currently, I serve on the events team at my church, dedicated to bringing hope to families all across the state of Wisconsin.  A few years ago, I had the opportunity of a lifetime to serve as a Kids/Teens Leader in Estes Park, Colorado at a wonderful place called Wind River Ranch. This experience was transformative, as I engaged with guests to help them develop skills, overcome their fears, and give them the best experience possible.  When I wasn't working with the Kids/Teens there, I was busy helping out wranglers, housekeeping, kitchen staff and filling in wherever my help was needed.  The work was sometimes difficult however, the reward far outweighed the exhaustion and hard times.  After that I spent the next 5 ½ years of my life working as a bank teller and gathered more knowledge and skills to help out in life and it was a joy to work with each customer.

In my spare time, I love to either be outside enjoying the beauty of nature or perhaps curl up and read a good book inside.  I have quite a few hobbies, some of which include photography, hiking, camping, arts and crafts, cosplay and you can almost always find me listening to music. Life can get very busy, so I am always looking to appreciate every moment and enjoy whatever it may bring.  

Service Array: Individual Skills Development and Enhancement and Psychoeducation 

~Outdoor Activities

~At-Risk Adolescents

~Youth and Adolescent Guidance 

~Resilience Support 

~Parenting Support

Hi, I’m Jodi!

I bring a wide range of professional and life experience into the work I do, including backgrounds in juvenile corrections, AODA recovery, youth ministry, special education, and family support. I’m passionate about helping individuals navigate life changes, build practical skills, and strengthen their support systems during times of transition.

I believe growth happens best when people feel supported, understood, and empowered. My role is to walk alongside clients as they develop skills that promote confidence, resilience, and everyday success.

I’m grateful to be part of a team that values connection, learning, and meeting people where they are. I look forward to supporting individuals on their journey forward.

Service Array: Individual Skills Development and Enhancement and Psychoeducation 

~Outdoor Activities

~At-Risk Adolescents

~Youth and Adolescent Guidance 

~Resilience Support 

 Meet Madelyn – Skills Provider - Chore Crew at Strides 

Hi, I’m Madelyn, a Skills Provider with Strides Equestrian Therapeutic Center. 

My early life experiences shaped my passion for empathy, resilience, and building strong, supportive connections with others.

With a background in animal care and client communication, I focus on creating a safe, supportive space where individuals can build coping skills, emotional awareness, and confidence. My goal is to help people find hope and light—even during challenging seasons.

Outside of Strides, I enjoy spending time with my horse, Dakota, and being outdoors—hiking, fishing, biking, and four-wheeling.

Service Array: Individual Skills Development and Enhancement/Psychoeducation

~Skill Development (ISDE)

~Psychoeducation

~Fitness & Athletics 

~Outdoor Activities

~At-Risk Adolescents

~Youth and Adolescent Guidance 

~Resilience Support