ABOUT ME

EDUCATION
-
University of Wyoming, May 2011, BA of Psychology
-
University of Alaska Anchorage, May 2013, Master of Social Work
-
Graduate intern at Alaska Child & Family
-
Graduate intern at Providence Alaska Medical Center- Pediatric inpatient
-
LCSW #107428 (Expires: 2026-06-30)
-
PMH-C Obtained August 2024
SPECIALTIES
-
Perinatal Mental Health
-
Grief/Loss
-
Pregnancy loss, infertility
-
Parenting
-
Stress, Anxiety
-
Trauma
​​
​
​​
CERTIFICATIONS/TRAININGS
Comprehensive Bereavement Skills April 2025
Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C)​ -August 2024
EMDR Trained [October 2022]​
​
My name is Stephanie and I am the owner/founder of Refuge Cove Counseling, LLC. I am a born and raised Alaskan. Originating from the SE, I now reside in south central Alaska and love it, although mountains will never replace the ocean. I grew up on the sea engaging in both recreational and commercial fishing with my family. Being on the ocean, beach-combing the rocky beaches of southeast, and finding treasure in tide pools are some of my favorite self care activities and so, Refuge Cove Counseling was born. I strive to provide my clients with a safe refuge as they learn to sail their ship through whatever storm comes their way. I want to be a safe place to pursue healing and to be someone who can join you on your journey.
​
My career has been spent working in behavioral health, trauma, crisis intervention, homelessness and anti sex-trafficking efforts. I also have spent some time working with disabilities and early intervention. My professional experiences, as well as my personal experiences of pregnancy loss and anxiety, have inspired me to begin pursing my certification in perinatal mental health where I hope to gain the educational and professional expertise of postpartum care. I hope to create a safe space in my practice for mothers and their partners to come for support & healing as they walk through the journey of infertility, pregnancy/child loss and the difficulties that come with these experiences.
​
​
VOLUNTEER
-
Postpartum Support International Alaska Chapter- Board President (Current)
-
Postpartum Support International Alaska Chapter- Communications Chair
-
National Association of Social Workers Alaska Chapter, President
-
Ketchikan Youth Initiatives, Vice President
EXPERIENCES
-
Providence Medical Group- behavioral health consultant/medical social worker
-
Priceless Alaska- director of survivor care
-
Programs for Infants & Children- behavioral health specialist
-
Covenant House Alaska- mental health clinician