Ruby Zitzer, Counselor in Training, UM
I am a graduate student in the Clinical Mental Health program at the University of Montana, where I am working toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). As part of this journey, I am gaining both the education and the 3,000 clinical hours required for licensure, currently through my internship at Families First.
I am passionate about supporting individuals through life's transitions, including experiences of grief, loss, and trauma. I am particularly drawn to working with people who seek to deepen their understanding of themselves and explore their personal narratives. My approach is collaborative, grounded in the belief that you are the expert on your own life. Together, we will build on your strengths, incorporating my training, curiosity, and a sense of humor into our sessions, as we work toward fostering self-empowerment, growth, and meaningful change.
In our work together, I will meet you with unconditional positive regard, creating a safe, warm, and nonjudgmental space where your voice is central. I am committed to a person-centered approach, meaning that our work will be guided by your unique experiences, values, and goals. From a feminist perspective, I recognize the impact of societal structures on our lives and aim to support you in challenging oppressive narratives and embracing your authentic self.
I believe in the power of storytelling as a means of understanding and healing, drawing from narrative therapy to help you explore the stories that shape your identity. Additionally, I integrate principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which encourages embracing your thoughts and feelings with compassion while committing to actions that align with your values.
The therapeutic relationship is the foundation of our work, and I will prioritize ensuring that you feel heard, respected, and understood. Finding the "right" fit in a therapist can be challenging, and I believe it is your feelings about the relationship that matter most. I am here to support you in every step of your journey, meeting you where you are and empowering you to move toward the life you want to lead.
I am passionate about supporting individuals through life's transitions, including experiences of grief, loss, and trauma. I am particularly drawn to working with people who seek to deepen their understanding of themselves and explore their personal narratives. My approach is collaborative, grounded in the belief that you are the expert on your own life. Together, we will build on your strengths, incorporating my training, curiosity, and a sense of humor into our sessions, as we work toward fostering self-empowerment, growth, and meaningful change.
In our work together, I will meet you with unconditional positive regard, creating a safe, warm, and nonjudgmental space where your voice is central. I am committed to a person-centered approach, meaning that our work will be guided by your unique experiences, values, and goals. From a feminist perspective, I recognize the impact of societal structures on our lives and aim to support you in challenging oppressive narratives and embracing your authentic self.
I believe in the power of storytelling as a means of understanding and healing, drawing from narrative therapy to help you explore the stories that shape your identity. Additionally, I integrate principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which encourages embracing your thoughts and feelings with compassion while committing to actions that align with your values.
The therapeutic relationship is the foundation of our work, and I will prioritize ensuring that you feel heard, respected, and understood. Finding the "right" fit in a therapist can be challenging, and I believe it is your feelings about the relationship that matter most. I am here to support you in every step of your journey, meeting you where you are and empowering you to move toward the life you want to lead.
Sam Stroebel, Counselor in Training, UM
Sam Stroebel grew up in rural Central Oregon and lived in Los Angeles, California and Portland, Oregon before moving to Missoula five years ago with her husband and two cats.
Sam spent the last decade in the food industry working in restaurants, food production and sales, 5 years as a professional Cheesemonger, including running her own cheese pairing pop up business, and working as a Program Coordinator for Ruminate, a nonprofit food innovation lab. The biggest takeaways in her professional development are the importance of curiosity, collaborative communication, and community building.
She is a graduate student and counselor-in-training at The University of Montana, where she is being trained to provide mental health support to individuals and groups. She is interested and is receiving ongoing education in supporting individuals and groups across the lifespan navigating challenging life transitions, grief, and loss. She aims to integrate evidence-based practices including mindfulness and expressive arts into her work.
When she is not working as a graduate student and working alongside clients to support their therapeutic needs and goals, she spends her free time journaling, exploring nature and seasonal offerings, and making memories with her loved ones.
Sam spent the last decade in the food industry working in restaurants, food production and sales, 5 years as a professional Cheesemonger, including running her own cheese pairing pop up business, and working as a Program Coordinator for Ruminate, a nonprofit food innovation lab. The biggest takeaways in her professional development are the importance of curiosity, collaborative communication, and community building.
She is a graduate student and counselor-in-training at The University of Montana, where she is being trained to provide mental health support to individuals and groups. She is interested and is receiving ongoing education in supporting individuals and groups across the lifespan navigating challenging life transitions, grief, and loss. She aims to integrate evidence-based practices including mindfulness and expressive arts into her work.
When she is not working as a graduate student and working alongside clients to support their therapeutic needs and goals, she spends her free time journaling, exploring nature and seasonal offerings, and making memories with her loved ones.
Seth Hansen, Counselor in Training, UM
Hello, my name is Seth Hansen. I am currently an intern at Families First and a graduate student at the University of Montana, where I am in the final semester of my Master’s program in Mental Health Counseling. Having spent most of my life in Montana, I feel fortunate to be raising my two children in Missoula, surrounded by the beauty and community that make this state so special.
Before transitioning to the counseling field, I dedicated much of my adult life to serving as a Smokejumper with the U.S. Forest Service. It was a challenging and rewarding career, but over time, I realized that my true passion lay in helping children, parents, and families build stronger, healthier relationships.
Now, as a counselor-in-training, I am deeply committed to helping kids and parents connect and communicate more effectively. I believe in the power of empathy, understanding, and mutual respect to transform family dynamics, and I strive to create a safe and supportive space for children and parents to explore these connections. My approach is rooted in fostering resilience, strengthening relationships, and helping families find joy and balance in their lives.
I look forward to continuing this meaningful work, bringing my unique life experiences and dedication to supporting families in my community.
Before transitioning to the counseling field, I dedicated much of my adult life to serving as a Smokejumper with the U.S. Forest Service. It was a challenging and rewarding career, but over time, I realized that my true passion lay in helping children, parents, and families build stronger, healthier relationships.
Now, as a counselor-in-training, I am deeply committed to helping kids and parents connect and communicate more effectively. I believe in the power of empathy, understanding, and mutual respect to transform family dynamics, and I strive to create a safe and supportive space for children and parents to explore these connections. My approach is rooted in fostering resilience, strengthening relationships, and helping families find joy and balance in their lives.
I look forward to continuing this meaningful work, bringing my unique life experiences and dedication to supporting families in my community.
Lisa Birnbaum, M.A. School Psychology & M.A. Education Specialist
Hi, my name is Lisa Birnbaum. I have a M.A. in School Psychology and a M.A.- Education Specialist degree from the University of MT. I have been working as a certified School Psychologist/Counselor for over twenty years. I have had the honor of working with children (and their families!) from preschool through 8th grade. I have extensive experience working with students with disabilities as well as typically-developing children. I care deeply about whole child development and value play as a vital element of working with children.
Outside of the public school, I am a DONA-trained postpartum doula. Additionally I have spent time working with refugee families. It has been a true joy working with people from diverse backgrounds and I hope to continue supporting our new neighbors on their journey to stability and belongingness.
I am interested in providing individual and group mental health support at the community level.I believe in the power of connection as a source of healing and wellness. The ability to trust oneself and develop healthy attachments to others are skills that I model and promote with my clients. I am a proponent of evidence-based techniques combined with the art of relating to others with empathy, respect and positive communication. I am committed to creating a safe space for clients of all ages.
Outside of professional interests, I love spending time with my husband, teenage boys and two dog-friends. Hiking, mountain biking, skiing, camping and traveling are some of my favorite activities. I also enjoy long deep talks with friends. While I love adventure and activity, I also appreciate sitting in the corner of my couch with a warm cozy blanket and a good book.
Outside of the public school, I am a DONA-trained postpartum doula. Additionally I have spent time working with refugee families. It has been a true joy working with people from diverse backgrounds and I hope to continue supporting our new neighbors on their journey to stability and belongingness.
I am interested in providing individual and group mental health support at the community level.I believe in the power of connection as a source of healing and wellness. The ability to trust oneself and develop healthy attachments to others are skills that I model and promote with my clients. I am a proponent of evidence-based techniques combined with the art of relating to others with empathy, respect and positive communication. I am committed to creating a safe space for clients of all ages.
Outside of professional interests, I love spending time with my husband, teenage boys and two dog-friends. Hiking, mountain biking, skiing, camping and traveling are some of my favorite activities. I also enjoy long deep talks with friends. While I love adventure and activity, I also appreciate sitting in the corner of my couch with a warm cozy blanket and a good book.