The Team

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Angee, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, holds a Master of Social Work degree from Louisiana State University.  With over 20 years of experience in social services, Angee brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her work. Angee strongly believes that all matters in life revolve around creating and maintaining healthy relationships. Angee’s therapeutic approach is to assist children and families to create healthy attachments that will be the foundation for the change that they are seeking.

Angee and her husband consider it a great honor to create a safe haven for children and families within their community. Having spent most of her life in the Basin, where she lovingly raised her three children, Angee now revels in the most rewarding role of all: being a Gigi to her five handsome grandsons! When she’s not at work, you’ll likely find her cherishing precious moments with her family.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Lindsey is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with a deep passion for helping individuals reconnect with their inner strength, find their voice, and build lives rooted in autonomy and self-advocacy. Since earning her MSW in 2019—with a focus on trauma-informed practice and human rights—Lindsey has worked in a variety of settings, including DHS, Josephine County DV/SA Victim Services, Kairos, Dragonfly, and Embark, supporting youth and young adults through some of life’s most difficult challenges.

Her work centers on individuals who have experienced complex trauma, with a particular focus on LGBTQ+ youth, neurodiverse individuals, and those navigating self-harm, suicidal ideation, or disordered eating. Lindsey brings specialized training in Brainspotting and somatic approaches that support nervous system healing and regulation—recognizing that healing involves more than talking; it’s about feeling safe in one’s body again.

Grounded in a holistic, person-centered approach, Lindsey honors each person’s unique story. Whether through deep listening, body-based work, or empowering individuals to advocate for themselves, she walks alongside clients as they reclaim their sense of self and move toward healing. 

Professional Counselor Associate

Rebecca is a registered professional counselor associate with a strong belief in every individual’s capacity for positive personal growth and change. She holds that no one is bound to a narrative that no longer serves them, and that transformation is best supported through a person-centered approach grounded in unconditional positive regard, empathy, connection, belonging, and trust.

Rebecca incorporates an eclectic counseling style that is developmentally and culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and evidence-based. Her therapeutic framework includes Narrative Therapy, Relational Cultural Theory, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. She actively supports clients in exploring and discovering their personal values and beliefs to foster meaningful growth and change.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in Applied Psychology from Oregon Tech and her master’s degree in Counseling from Oregon State University. Rebecca is currently working toward licensure under the supervision of Carla Stewart Donaldson, PhD, LPC, NCC, and abides by the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists’ Code of Ethics.

With eight years of experience as a high school counselor, Rebecca brings firsthand knowledge of navigating the educational system. Her academic background includes coursework in family systems theory, socio-ecological theory, human growth and development, trauma, crisis and grief, group and individual counseling, and culturally relevant, socially just perspectives. She is committed to practicing cultural humility in all aspects of her work.

Rebecca has worked with youth, adolescents, and families in diverse settings such as residential treatment facilities, school-based programs, and community mental health. She continues to pursue ongoing training and professional development, including specialized education in the effects of stress and trauma on the brain and body, ASIST and QPR suicide prevention, and more.

Her counseling practice is deeply informed by her personal journey as a mother of three young adult sons. She draws from her lived experiences—both the joys and challenges—to connect authentically with clients. Rebecca supports individuals in addressing trauma, crisis, grief, suicidal ideation, depression, self-harm, anxiety, unhelpful thought patterns, coping skills development, and personal values exploration.

Outside of her professional life, Rebecca enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, walking, exploring wilderness areas, camping, fishing, watching movies, reading, cooking, and being with her family. 

Qualified Mental Health Professional

 Jane is a passionate advocate for all children and families, especially those with specialized needs and members of underserved populations. She has strong ties to the Chiloquin and Klamath Falls communities, growing up here from a young age. An interest in human development and cognition led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Oregon Institute of Technology. Working within the school districts as well as local early learning centers inspired her to supplement her experience with an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a master’s degree in Developmental Psychology. Jane is a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) and a certified Oregon master trainer. She has worked primarily with preschool-age and elementary-age children in various teaching and administrative roles, bringing a unique perspective to treatment.

Jane’s two children are her world. Along with her husband and pets, they share many adventures in the Klamath Basin. Jane enjoys crafting, baking, camping, kayaking, fishing, and anything else outdoors in our beautiful southern Oregon region. She brings lived experience to CCYC from advocating for mental health services for both herself and family members. Together we can break down the stigma around mental health services!

Qualified Mental Health Professional

Gary Mauro is a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) with a master's degree in psychology. He was born and raised in Klamath County and is dedicated to empowering the next generation to face the challenges of personal development and achieve their goals.

Gary began his career by volunteering with multiple agencies while pursuing other interests. Eventually, his passion for mental health led him to transition from the business world to this field. He became a Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA) and provided skills training, laying the groundwork for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which are now integral to his practice. After completing his education, Gary worked as a crisis therapist, where he developed expertise in risk assessment and prevention.

Today, he is a dedicated member of our team, committed to providing a person-centered approach in every aspect of his practice.

In his free time, Gary enjoys a fulfilling family life with his wife and three children. He takes advantage of the outdoor activities that the basin has to offer, particularly fishing and camping. An avid reader, he devotes much of his spare time to expanding his knowledge and understanding in his field.

We all have unique stories that shape our views of the world and influence our personal growth. Each narrative informs our understanding and experiences, affecting our connections with others. Thank you for providing us with an opportunity to be a part of your story.

Qualified Mental Health Professional

Mac Zupan, QMHP, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. With a strong foundation in both interpersonal communication and clinical practice, Mac brings a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health care. She began her career as a high school counselor, where she spent three years supporting adolescents through academic and emotional challenges. During her graduate studies, she interned in a hospital emergency department, gaining valuable experience in crisis intervention and acute care settings.

Currently practicing as a Qualified Mental Health Professional, Mac is dedicated to fostering resilience and well-being in diverse populations. Her clinical interests include adolescent mental health, trauma-informed care, and crisis response.

Outside of her professional life, Mac is passionate about staying active—frequenting the gym and enjoying outdoor adventures with her dog, Oakley. She values quality time with her family and finds joy in baking, especially crafting homemade sourdough on her days off. Her blend of clinical expertise and personal warmth makes her a trusted and approachable figure in the mental health community.

Qualified Mental Health Professional

Melinda M.Cain, QMHP, has called Oregon home for the past 10 years. She holds a Master’s degree in Mental Health and Wellness with an emphasis in Community Mental Health Administration. As a mother of six children—ages 8 to 21—three of whom live with ADHD and are on the autism spectrum, Melinda brings a deeply personal and empathetic perspective to her work in the mental health and developmental disabilities (I/DD) field.

Over the past decade, she has been deeply involved in the I/DD and mental health communities, serving in various roles including case manager, residential associate at a crisis facility, skills trainer, job coach, job developer, and intensive case manager for individuals living with serious and persistent mental illness.

Outside of her professional life, Melinda enjoys spending time at the lake, taking road trips, tackling DIY projects, and being with her children as often as possible. Her unique combination of clinical knowledge, lived experience, and heartfelt compassion makes her a trusted and valued presence in the community.

Qualified Mental Health Professional

Carlos Fonseca Jr. grew up in Klamath Falls and has returned with the hope of giving back to the community he calls home. Driven by a passion for learning and service, Carlos earned both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in education. He brings nearly a decade of experience mentoring and supporting high school and college-aged students through major life transitions, crises, and conflict resolution.

Carlos’ deep commitment to helping others inspired his transition from education to counseling. He embraces a client-centered approach, aiming to create a judgment-free, supportive space that fosters resilience, growth, and healing.

Carlos is honored to walk alongside individuals on their journey toward greater well-being. He brings empathy, curiosity, and care into every session, and looks forward to supporting clients as they navigate life’s challenges.

Qualified Mental Health Professional

Monica is a Qualified Mental Health Professional dedicated to helping families restore harmony through communication and connection. She holds a BS in Child Development and Family Studies, a Master’s Certificate in Pastoral Counseling, and recently earned her MA in Human Services Counseling with a clinical counseling focus. Soon, she will also complete her Yoga Teacher Training certification from The Living Institute of Yoga.

With over 13 years of experience supporting individuals and families, Monica brings a wealth of knowledge and compassionate care to her work. Since 2020, she has received training in Restorative Justice, Ecotherapy, Yoga, and Art Therapy techniques rooted in culturally appropriate yogic traditions. Her background includes Special Education, Outdoor Education, and extensive experience supporting adults with disabilities. Monica’s clinical training allows her to integrate Somatic Awareness with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help youth and families thrive.

Her journey began in 2015 as a Direct Support Staff for Home Life, where she discovered her passion for working with adults with Autism. This experience led to specialized training in supporting individuals and families affected by Autism and Down Syndrome. Monica is also trained in Trauma-Informed CBT, Yoga, and Art Therapy, emphasizing nervous system regulation and family reconnection through simple practices—like sharing meals together.

Previously, Monica developed a state-level intensive program for at-risk youth, working closely with youth in juvenile detention. This experience inspired her to create a holistic counseling approach that helps individuals reconnect with nature, reduce screen time, and build meaningful connections.

Outside of work, Monica enjoys spending time with her dog Pearl, hiking, practicing and teaching yoga, cooking seasonal meals, and gathering around campfires with loved ones. She’s passionate about seasonal living, loves musicals from the golden era, stand-up comedy, and traveling—whether it’s a big adventure or a spontaneous mini getaway.

Parenting Coach/Skills Builder

Kara grew up in Chiloquin, Oregon. She pursued her undergraduate studies at Oregon State University, earning a degree in Human Development and Family Sciences. Post-graduation, she returned to the Klamath Basin, and embarked on a career in social services. With over a decade and a half of experience, Kara has worked extensively with young people, their families, and local service providers. Her mission is to empower families to foster environments where children can flourish.

Kara’s vast experience in social services has equipped her with the necessary skills and knowledge to positively influence the lives of young people and their families. She is dedicated to understanding families’ unique situations and enhancing their inherent strengths, reflecting her commitment to providing tailored and effective support. By empowering parents and caregivers, Kara strives to nurture resilience, encourage healthy development, and improve children’s well-being in the community. She is enthusiastic about guiding parents on their parenting journey.

Family is the cornerstone of Kara’s life. Together with her husband, they are raising their three energetic boys with joy. They are an adventurous family, enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and snow skiing. They are drawn to the beach and participate in various sports. Kara herself is committed to staying active, whether it’s working out at the gym or exploring the outdoors. In her quiet moments, you’ll find her in her garden caring for her plants or nestled by a cozy fire, engrossed in a good book. As part of a large family, she looks forward to family reunions. For Kara, being a mother brings unparalleled joy, and she cherishes the daily moments with her boys - the laughter, the learning, and the love.

Family Peer Support Specialist/Skills Builder

 For the past six years, Holly has devoted her career to making a meaningful impact on the lives of families, children, and adolescents as a Qualified Mental Health Associate II (QMHA) most recently receiving her certification as a Peer Support Specialist in Family Support. Her work centers around promoting healthy family dynamics, empowering parents, and fostering resilience in young people through evidence-based interventions and compassionate care. Holly began her career as a home visitor, where she specialized in preventing child abuse by teaching parenting skills and ensuring children’s developmental milestones were met. In this role, she provided guidance to parents in building nurturing, supportive environments for their children, helping them strengthen family bonds and prevent crises before they occurred. Recognizing the vital role of mental health support in schools, Holly transitioned into working as a child outpatient skills builder, delivering services to children and adolescents in diverse settings, including schools and juvenile detention centers. She worked closely with at-risk youth, helping them develop the tools to manage emotions, improve relationships, and develop effective coping strategies to help overcome challenges. 

In addition to her individual work with children, Holly has provided intensive in-home support to families navigating high-risk situations. Whether addressing behavioral challenges, crisis prevention, or family dynamics, she partnered with caregivers to create tailored strategies that build stability and hope for the future. Her most recent work has focused on school-based skills building in local middle and high schools, where she equipped students with critical life skills to navigate anxiety and depression, build healthy relationships, manage the challenges of adolescence and improve cognitive health . Her ability to connect with youth in these pivotal years has made her a trusted resource for students, parents, and school staff alike.

With a passion for advocacy, collaboration, care coordination and prevention, Holly has built a reputation for her unwavering dedication to the well-being of families and her skill in adapting interventions to meet the unique needs of each child. Her holistic approach, informed by a deep understanding of child development and family systems, has empowered countless families to overcome obstacles and build brighter futures. Holly remains committed to her mission of fostering resilience, growth, connection and support to all children and families who she has the privilege to work with. 

Born and raised in Klamath Falls, life for her has always been right here, rooted in this community. She enjoys being with the ones she loves, spending time caring for and laughing with her family and friends. Holly enjoys the serenity of home life but also staying active through outdoor activities and exercise. 

Skills Builder

Ben currently serves as the Physical Education teacher at Ferguson Elementary, where he brings energy and enthusiasm to every class. Now in his third year of teaching, he is committed to professional growth and is on track to complete his teaching credential program by fall 2026.

Ben has a deep passion for working with youth. During the summer, he serves as a Peer Support, helping young people set and achieve their goals while being a positive role model. He uses his love for sports and the outdoors as a bridge to connect with youth, creating a safe and supportive environment where they can share, learn, and grow.

Outside the classroom, Ben embraces the outdoors in every way possible—camping under the stars, hiking scenic trails, fishing in quiet lakes, and hunting in the wilderness. Family is at the heart of his life, and he treasures time spent with loved ones. He also takes pride in coaching his son’s football team, sharing his passion for sports and teamwork.

Ben’s dedication to teaching, mentoring, and fostering growth reflects his commitment to making a lasting impact on the lives of young people.

Peer Support Specialist

 Josh Wright wears multiple hats in his professional life. Josh has dedicated the last 28 years to serving as an IT professional with a global manufacturing company.  In addition, he has recently added Youth Peer Support Specialist to his resume.  Josh provides emotional guidance and encouragement to individuals navigating mental health challenges. His empathetic nature and ability to connect with people make him an invaluable asset to not only CCYC, but also the community.  Josh embodies compassion, professionalism, and a zest for life—a true inspiration to those around him. In addition, Josh serves as the Office Manager. His organizational skills and attention to detail ensure that the office runs smoothly. Whether it’s coordinating schedules, handling administrative tasks, or fostering a positive work environment, Josh is the go-to person.

Outside of work, Josh’s heart belongs to his family. He is happily married and together, he and his wife cherish spending time with their children and adorable grandchildren.  In the kitchen, he’s a culinary enthusiast, delighting his loved ones with delicious meals.  When he’s not busy with work or family, Josh enjoys exploring new destinations through travel.

Peer Support Specialist

 Joshua, a Behavioral Health Professional, brings over a decade of experience in youth work, including leading an Intensive Outpatient Program in Arizona. He also served as a campus life advisor at a high-needs youth campus in the woods of Hinckley, Maine. Joshua’s diverse experience has taught him the importance of meeting young people where they are.

Joshua believes in the power of teamwork, honesty, and follow-through. He is known for his high energy, visionary thinking, and commitment to positive change. In many challenging situations, Joshua has proven to be a reliable and efficient partner in promoting youth development, helping young people reach their full potential.

As a father for nearly 21 years, Joshua is passionate about sports, both as a player and a spectator, and has gained coaching experience over the years. His core values include faith, family, and food. An avid traveler, Joshua enjoys exploring the country with his family, renovating old homes for resale along the way.

 Peer Support Specialist

 Hello everyone! My name is Alyssa Howard , I am a proud wife and a mother to the two sweet boys. I was born and raised here in Klamath county. When I am not at work, you can find me with my family. We spend most of our time outdoors. I am a strong believer in the healing powers of nature. Camping, fishing, and evening walks are some of my favorite things. My favorite place to be is at the Oregon coast playing in the sand with my boys. I have worked with children and young adults for the past few years and have enjoyed learning new ways to support and communicate with them all. We live in such a diverse community and I believe that, that is a beautiful thing.  

Peer Support Specialist

 Hello Friends! My name is Ashley DiBrito, I am a proud wife and a mother to the three coolest guys in the world. When I am not at work, you’ll discover me dedicating time to my mental and physical well-being at the gym, or perhaps kayaking, hiking, or snowboarding—all under the warm embrace of the sun. I firmly believe that genuine connections and positive interactions have the power to alter the trajectory of a lifetime. My passion lies in illuminating those little glimmers of light that life generously scatters along our paths. I am honored to be a part of so many beautiful people’s unique journeys.

Peer Support Specialist

 Maria Wheeler is an 18-year-old senior at Klamath Learning Center in Klamath falls, Oregon, and she's set to graduate early. A passionate advocate for the youth, Maria plans to pursue a degree in social work, aiming to make a positive impact in her community. Growing up in Klamath Falls, she has always found joy in spending time with her family and exploring new places through travel. When she's not working toward her academic and career goals, Maria enjoys relaxing with a challenging coloring book, honing her creativity and patience. She loves exploring new hobbies, always eager to try something different and expand her interests. She's incredibly proud of how far she's come and looks forward to the future with excitement and determination. 

Peer Support Specialist

 Emily is a Peer Support Specialist at Conscious Connections Youth Counseling. At 25 years old, she recently returned to Klamath after spending time living in Portland. She has a deep appreciation for nature, art, music, and animals—anything that helps her slow down and connect with the world around her. Emily’s greatest passion lies in building meaningful relationships and supporting others, whether that means helping someone achieve a goal, encouraging them to thrive in their unique strengths, or simply brightening their day with a smile. 

Peer Support Specialist

 Mauricio is a 29-year-old Peer Support Specialist at Conscious Connections Youth Counseling. A proud Latino originally from Peru and raised in New Mexico, he’s new to Klamath Falls and excited to build meaningful connections within the community. Passionate about mental health and personal growth, Mauricio is dedicated to learning and supporting others in becoming their best selves. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with animals, working out, and playing video games. He’s enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead and committed to making a positive difference. 

Peer Support Specialist

  Lahna deGroot was born and raised in Klamath Falls and takes pride in being part of the community’s growth and success. She has three years of experience in education and working with children. Her passion lies in helping youth discover their potential. Lahna believes youth are the heart of our future, and she is dedicated to creating positive, lasting impacts through her work. She values building strong, meaningful connections and feels grateful to be part of each young person’s journey. Outside of work, she enjoys focusing on both physical and mental wellness, spending quality time with friends and family, and being with her three energetic dogs. 

Family Peer Support Specialist Advocate for Migrant Families Community Builder

Vanessa Navarro is a proud Latina Family Peer Support Specialist with a deep commitment to strengthening families and building resilient communities. Raised in a bilingual, multicultural household, she experienced firsthand the importance of connection, empathy, and culturally responsive support—values that continue to guide her professional journey.

In her role, Vanessa provides compassionate, culturally informed guidance to families navigating complex systems. Whether connecting parents to essential services or offering a supportive presence, she strives to uplift and advocate for every family she serves.

Her dedication to community advocacy extends beyond her professional responsibilities. Vanessa has volunteered with the Family Migrant Program as a member of the Parenting Advisory Committee (PAC), representing the state of Oregon in championing the educational rights of migrant families. This experience has fueled her mission to open doors, create opportunities, and amplify the voices of underserved communities.

Outside of work, Vanessa finds inspiration in reading, music, and art—creative outlets that nurture her empathy, broaden her perspective, and deepen her understanding of the diverse cultural contexts of the families she supports. She is also passionate about exploring Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and the transformative power of a positive mindset in navigating everyday life.

Vanessa firmly believes in the power of resilience and in the ability of individuals to reinvent themselves, start over, and move forward—regardless of the challenges they face. Her journey is rooted in service, advocacy, and a belief in the strength of community. She remains committed to helping families thrive and ensuring every voice is heard.

Family Peer Support Specialist

Jami is a Youth and Family Peer Support Specialist with over 20 years of experience in early childhood education. She is passionate about helping children, youth, and families build strong, healthy connections and develop positive coping skills. She believes that every person deserves to feel supported, heard, and empowered to reach their full potential.

In her free time, Jami enjoys expressing her creativity through arts and crafts and spending time outdoors. Whether swimming, exploring nature, or hunting for unique rocks, she finds peace and inspiration in the world around her. Her greatest joy comes from spending time with her beautiful son.  

 Receptionist

Born and raised in the heart of the Klamath Basin, Lynne has deep roots in the community she proudly calls home. For 34 years, she and her husband have built a life centered on family, raising three wonderful children and now cherishing the joy of watching her grandchildren learn, grow, and thrive in the same close-knit community.

Throughout her journey, Lynne has embraced a variety of professional roles—from working in city schools to serving as a doctor’s office receptionist, exploring retail, and many roles in between. Each experience has shaped her perspective and strengthened her commitment to helping others.

Today, Lynne finds her work at Conscious Connections especially rewarding. She believes wholeheartedly that “there’s always room for growing and learning, and this is the perfect place.” Her passion for personal growth and community connection shines through in everything she does.