Joan is the Clinical Director at Modern Youth and the creator of Modern Youth’s Family Alignment Coaching™ program, a comprehensive, therapist-led initiative designed to help families—whether married, separated, divorced, or blended—build emotionally healthy, aligned parenting systems. With over 40 years of experience, Joan has dedicated much of her career to supporting families in crisis and helping them navigate relational challenges and life transitions.

Joan is passionate about working with children and teens, helping them build resilience and emotional strength through relational and creative therapies. She has become an expert in family systems therapy, trauma-informed care, and innovative therapeutic approaches. Joan founded the first Native American Equine-Assisted Therapy program in the country and has led mental health teams in the Muckleshoot Tribal Community, focusing on youth and families.

Joan is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of therapists, using her decades of experience to mentor others in developing their own clinical expertise. She supports clinicians in cultivating creativity, integrating diverse therapeutic techniques, and building confidence in their practice. Joan’s mentorship extends beyond just skills—she encourages a holistic, client-centered approach that fosters both professional growth and personal satisfaction in the work.

In her free time, Joan loves tending her garden, getting her nails done with her best friend/daughter Kelly, traveling, making sourdough, and spending time around water. An animal lover, Joan has a beautiful standard poodle and a darling 240lb mastiff grand-pup, who she adores.