Keynote Spotlight:

Sarah Gaer

Sarah Gaer is a highly experienced mental health professional with over 25 years in the  field, specializing in trauma, addiction, and suicide prevention. With a master’s degree in  clinical psychology from Antioch University, Sarah has dedicated her career to fostering  resilience and healing in individuals and communities. She has served as a Suicide  Prevention Specialist, training over 1,000 individuals in life-saving techniques and leading  crisis response efforts in the aftermath of suicides, homicides, natural disasters, and  terrorist attacks. 

At the heart of Sarah’s work is her groundbreaking focus on Soul Care and addressing Soul  Exhaustion—a concept she developed to explore the profound effects of trauma, grief, and  adverse life experiences on the human spirit. Sarah provides individuals with the tools to  navigate these challenges through her compassionate storytelling and expertise, promoting  transformation and healing. Her keynote speeches, delivered to audiences across national and  international platforms, reframe how we view mental health by placing the soul at the center of  self-understanding and resilience. 

As a consultant and trainer for the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, Sarah  specializes in suicide prevention and mental health support for law enforcement. She is also a  National Trainer for Psychological First Aid and an active leader in the H.O.P.E. Certification  program, which champions evidence-based practices to enhance mental health care. 

Sarah’s work has earned her widespread recognition, including the Massachusetts Coalition for  Suicide Prevention Leadership Award. Her passion for advocacy is further reflected in her roles  as Chair of the Central Massachusetts Suicide Prevention Coalition and a member of the  Executive Committee for the Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention. 

In addition to her speaking engagements, Sarah is an accomplished author. Her works,  including The Price, Goodnight Grace, and the co-authored Guts, Grit & The Grind, delve into  themes of trauma, grief, and the complexities of mental health, with a particular focus on men’s  wellness. 

Beyond her professional endeavors, Sarah finds renewal in her personal life, whether hiking with  her beloved Bernese Mountain Dogs, relaxing in her RV, or cherishing moments with her family.  Her dedication to mental health advocacy and her innovative approach to Soul Care continue to  inspire hope and healing for those seeking peace and transformation.

Learn more about Sarah and her work at https://sarahgaer.com/

  • Throughout the history of humanity and within every known culture has been the concept of the Soul and yet over the last century or so, its value has lost much ground. For many people, the idea of the soul, the essence of "who" they are resonates deeply and yet has been significantly diminished by the medical model of mental health. This presentation will bring the concept of the soul back to the forefront of discussion regarding how we conceptualize ourselves and others, and the concept of Soul Exhaustion. Soul Exhaustion takes a deeper exploration into life experiences such as poverty, adverse childhood experiences, racism, problematic coping mechanisms (Gambling & Substance Use), and trauma and loss. This presentation will explore the holistic impact these life experiences have on the "who" we are.  When looking through the lens of Soul exhaustion, we also must shift our thoughts on solutions to address the soul, spirit, or essence of "who" we are. Therefore, Soul Care, emphasizes non-clinical resources and goes deeper into understanding how we care for the "who". 

     

    Keynote Objectives: 

    1)    Participants will be able to define the concepts of Soul Exhaustion and Soul Care

    2) Participants will be able to list three experiences that have a deep impact on mental health/soul health 

    3)    Participants will be able to identify and explain three components of Soul Care

  • Most people get into their field of work because they have personal passion, but when the days start to feel longer and the work less meaningful, burnout may be occurring. Burnout carries the typical symptoms (which will be explored in this workshop), but it can also attack our sense of self. This workshop will explore the relationship between professional burnout and Soul Exhaustion and explore the Soul Care techniques of Claiming Yourself. 

  • We all exist in the context of the world around us and when hard things are happening, it can directly impact our essence and lead to soul exhaustion. This workshop will explore how world happenings and media can cause Soul Exhaustion. We will examine it both in the context of those we serve as well as for ourselves. The workshop will conclude with a discussion on how to protect ourselves from future harm.

  • Self-care is the concept most commonly discussed as a way to counteract life’s hardships. While self-care (such as getting exercise and sleep) is a necessity, Soul Care is required when the essence of who we are has been depleted. Soul Care addresses the deeper emotional needs that we have as human beings. This keynote will explore the power of Soul Care and suggest that we need to not only take better care of our souls, but we also need to be part of communities that care for one another.

Learn more about our sessions and speakers!

Marsha Oss

Re-Entry Coordinator

  • 5/1 11:00-12:00

    This session will be a discussion on recovering balance in family and building resilience in our Children and Relationships.

  • Marsha Oss has 37 years of lived experience in recovery from IV drug use and suicide attempts. She started volunteering in Idaho’s Prisons after one year of sobriety. She has worked inside and outside correctional institutions, hospitals, and treatment agencies as a correctional officer and an SUD Counselor. She owned an outpatient facility in Idaho between the years 2008-2013, offering SUD Education, Relapse Prevention, and various Cognitive-Behavioral groups serving justice-involved individuals exclusively.

    Marsha has a long history in relation to suicidal ideation, suicidal attempts, and suicide completions in her life and her family’s lifetime. She grew up with the belief that suicide was an option, nothing to be ashamed of, and nothing to be feared.

    In her recent work as the Reentry Coalition Coordinator, she recognizes the vulnerable populations she works with in corrections and partners with Alaska DOC to put preventions in place to ensure people get services and come home to live out their lives despite the option of suicide. Marsha completed her A.A. and B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies with minors in Justice, Political Science, and History through UAF in 2022. She currently holds an NCAC-I and is certified through Alaska as a CDC/BHC II and Idaho as a CADC. She is certified in Alaska as a Traditional Peer Support Specialist III. Other training includes Suicide Prevention, Grief Specialist, and Domestic Batterer’s Education Facilitator. Marsha is an active member in Fairbanks Wellness Coalition and the Brain Injury Council of Alaska, specifically focused on suicide in the justice-involved populations.

Magen Spencer

Executive Director @ Railbelt Mental Health and Addictions

  • 5/1 2:30-3:30

    Self-care is a widely recognized concept in the helping professions, yet discussions often focus solely on individual self-care. However, self-care is just as vital at agencies’ organizational and interpersonal levels. Many employees experience workplace dissatisfaction, feeling unsupported, overworked, and burdened by compassion fatigue. To effectively address these challenges, self-care must extend beyond personal responsibility—it should be a fundamental part of workplace culture. It is essential that self-care is not only encouraged for individuals but also actively promoted and supported by colleagues and organizations alike, fostering an environment where employees feel valued and cared for.

    This workshop explores self-care through a multi-tiered approach: organizational (leadership, policies, programs), interpersonal (co-workers), and individual employee self-care.

Brighton Brooks

LPC, R-DMT at Fairbanks Somatic Thereapy and Wellness

  • 5/1 1:15-2:15

    Rest is more than just sleeping! In a world filled with deadlines and distractions, rest can become a real struggle, but is so crucial for our well-being. Join Brighton at this session to learn how to map out your nervous system and expand your definition of rest. We’ll practice several strategies for supportive rest and restoration you can take home to share with your friends and loved ones.

  • Brighton Brooks (they/them; LPC, Fairbanks Somatic Therapy & Wellness) is a registered dance/movement therapist and crisis counselor on the land of the Dena'ina. They use creative expression, group improvisation, and performance art to seek and support connections while challenging oppression and discrimination. They are passionate about exploring the wisdom of the body while honoring the Indigenous cultural roots of dance as a form of resilience and community healing.

Christine Schut

Behavioral Health Clinician

  • 5/1 3:45-4:45

    How dietary intake and ancestral foods impact our mental health

  • Christine is a LMSW, currently working as a Behavioral Health Clinician and Adjunct Professor.


  • 5/2 1:00-2:00

    This session aims to empower participants by exploring key concepts of energetic boundaries, vulnerability, and resilience within the context of personal and professional healing practices. Beginning with a guided meditation and a yoga flow designed to foster openness and authenticity, the session will introduce participants to the importance of establishing and maintaining energetic boundaries as foundational tools for self-care. Through psychoeducation, a breakout activity, and group discussion, participants will gain hands-on experience in creating their own energetic boundary maps, enhancing self-awareness and emotional well-being. The session will then provide actionable steps for integrating these boundaries into daily practice, followed by an exploration of resilience—what it is and how it can be cultivated. Concluding with a focus on the power of raw vulnerability and authenticity, participants will leave the session equipped with practical tools to promote emotional resilience, foster deeper connections, and maintain healthy boundaries in both their personal and professional lives. This interactive and reflective experience is designed to enhance participants' understanding of how vulnerability and boundaries contribute to resilience, supporting their ongoing healing journeys.


  • Victoria is a compassionate and client-centered Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Fairbanks, Alaska, specializing in trauma informed care for military members and their families. With a Bachelor's degree from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Master's degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, and her RYT200, she integrates holistic healing practices into her therapy, focusing on combat-related and sexual assault-related PTSD treatment for adults. Victoria's approach combines evidence-based, Western medicinal methods with cultural-based healing techniques to empower individuals. Committed to mental health advocacy, she strives to reduce stigma and promote accessible services for all. When Victoria isn't in the office, you can find her sipping an iced coffee, practicing yoga, or watching re-runs of Dance Moms or the latest Bachelor episode.


Linda Setterberg

Senior Pastor, AK New Beginnings Church

  • 5/2 10:45-11:45

    The Sacred Seasons: Faith, Mental Health, and Self-Care panel, featuring local faith leaders Steve Reed, Linda Setterberg, and Shane Hopkins and facilitated by Nenette Rogers of NAMI Fairbanks, will be an open and heartfelt conversation exploring the role of spirituality and community in mental health and self-care. In alignment with the "Seasons of Self-Care" theme, this interfaith panel will reflect on how different traditions support emotional well-being, respond to life's challenges, and foster resilience across diverse spiritual landscapes. Discover how shared values of compassion, presence, and hope can nurture personal and collective healing.

  • Linda Setterberg is the Senior Pastor at AK New Beginnings Church and Project Director for the Hope Project at Fairbanks Native Association, where she oversees youth mental health services. A longtime advocate for healing and transformation, she brings decades of experience in nursing, ministry, and community outreach. Linda is also the associate chaplain at the Fairbanks Correctional Center and holds a master’s degree in Global Urban Leadership. Her work reflects a deep commitment to walking alongside those facing emotional, spiritual, and systemic challenges.

Jessica Farr

Education & Outreach Director, Fairbanks Children's Museum

  • 5/2 2:15-3:15

    What is play? Play is often thought of as being the work of children, but it is a necessity for adults too!

    At the Fairbanks Children's Museum we have built a space to support resilience in children and their families - Self-Awareness, Mindfulness, Self-Care, Positive Relationships, and Purpose in mind. These essential ingredients to resiliency can be supported in play and extended into daily life.

    Let's work together to define, explore, and create a plan to play!

  • Jessica Farr has worked at the Fairbanks Children's Museum for 10 years and is currently the Education & Outreach Director - creating programming, events, and invitations to play.

    She enjoys being mom to 2 little girls & 2 huskies, crafting of all sorts, gardening, and swimming when not playing at the museum.

Ryan Shewfelt

  • 5/1 11:00-12:00

    This session will be a discussion on recovering balance in family and building resilience in our Children and Relationships.

  • Bio

Victoria Murphy

LCSW, Aurora Counseling

Max Todhunter

Counselor, Pacific Rim Counseling

  • 5/2 2:15-3:15

    Meditation tends to be misunderstood. Misunderstanding typically comes from lack of instruction and can lead to unreasonable expectations that can be barriers either to starting a practice or to continued practice. Some common perceptions are that meditation is for bliss or checking out, makes a person empty, requires a lot of time, requires a high level of concentration, or is physically challenging. This session will address each of these ideas for the purpose of opening up the possibility of practice. Also, there will be three opportunities to engage in short practices of different types of basic meditation. Each practice will be accompanied by instruction on the function of various tools and techniques for that particular approach. The topic will be presented in a non-sectarian format that can be applied by anyone or to anyone’s approach to life. The session will be practiced with maximum empathy and compassion for self and others, with no shame, and no performance pressure.

  • Presenter is a licensed practicing counselor and a chemical dependency counselor in Fairbanks. He has been practicing meditation for several decades.

Han Harp

  • 5/1 2:30-3:30

    We often think of yoga as the physical movements that accompany breath, but before we embark on the physical path, we start practicing yoga through the Yamas and Niyamas, which offer boundaries for our actions. After a brief overview, we will focus on one of the Niyamas: Svadyaya which translates to self-study. This self-care through observing our own actions and their alignment to our values requires Satya (honesty), Tapas (Discipline), and Ahimsa (non-violence). This workshop does not require any experience with yoga or breathwork, and no special equipment is needed.

  • Han Harp (they/them) is a 200YTT yoga teacher focused on the heart work of connecting community through liberation practices, embodiment, movement, and breath. Han moved to Fairbanks in June 2021, and felt like they came home to a place they had not yet been. Driven by the constant, drastic change of the seasons, Han set the intention to grow more and more into seasonally living with each seasonal shift, changing their life to center on realignment of actions and values. As the seasons change, so does Han.

Sarah Hollister

Executive Director @ United Way of the Tanana Valley

  • 5/1 1:15-2:15

    Sarah will guide you through plant care basics, from propagation, soil health, repotting and more - while tying together how caring for your plants - is truly taking care of yourself as well. Each participant will receive their own houseplant to transplant into a terracotta pot and learn about the magic of vermiculture (yes, you'll meet some friendly red wigglers ). Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just getting started, this workshop will leave you feeling rooted, restored, and ready to grow.

  • Sarah (she/her) is a nonprofit executive and co-owner of Paradise Plant Co., a plant shop she runs with her partner. During the pandemic, she discovered the healing power of plant care—how nurturing living things can reduce stress, create routine, and promote mindfulness. Now, she shares that connection through workshops that explore the link between tending plants and tending to your own mental wellness.

  • 5/1 3:45-4:45

    Let’s make something beautifully messy!
    Join us for a relaxed, hands-on session where we dive into the wonderfully imperfect world of junk journaling. Whether you’re a seasoned paper hoarder or brand new to creative journaling, this class is all about exploring your creativity with everyday scraps, vintage papers, and a little glue.

    All materials are provided, but feel free to bring any personal scraps, papers, or photos you’d like to incorporate. No experience necessary—just bring your curiosity!

  • Sara Reid is the owner of a whimsical little ice cream shop in Alaska, where the creativity flows as freely as the hot fudge. When she’s not making ice cream, she’s enjoys hosting cozy craft nights, gardening and spending time with her cats.

    A lifelong lover of paper, she discovered junk journaling as the perfect mix of nostalgia, creativity, and chaos. With a background in hands-on community work and a passion for making art approachable for everyone, she believes the best kind of journaling is the kind that makes a mess and tells your story—typos, glue smudges, and all.

  • 5/2 10:45-11:45

    The Sacred Seasons: Faith, Mental Health, and Self-Care panel, featuring local faith leaders Steve Reed, Linda Setterberg, and Shane Hopkins and facilitated by Nenette Rogers of NAMI Fairbanks, will be an open and heartfelt conversation exploring the role of spirituality and community in mental health and self-care. In alignment with the "Seasons of Self-Care" theme, this interfaith panel will reflect on how different traditions support emotional well-being, respond to life's challenges, and foster resilience across diverse spiritual landscapes. Discover how shared values of compassion, presence, and hope can nurture personal and collective healing.

  • Shane Hopkins grew up in southern Appalachia, amongst family mental illness, alcoholism, abuse & suicides. He has spent the majority of his life working with teens in different capacities as a group home parent, mentor, teacher, athletic coach, and youth minister. He loves working cross-culturally and has traveled to 20 countries, and is most passionate about churches & ministries working together in their communities. He currently serves as lead pastor at The Lighthouse Church, President of the Tanana Valley Christian Conference, chaplain at Fairbanks Correctional Center, and a board member at Youth With A Mission Denali. He’s married and has two children, and steam cleans carpet in his spare time.

Sara Reid

Owner, Sassy Scoops

Nenette Rogers

Executive Director @ NAMI Fairbanks

  • 5/2 10:45-11:45

    The Sacred Seasons: Faith, Mental Health, and Self-Care panel, featuring local faith leaders Steve Reed, Linda Setterberg, and Shane Hopkins and facilitated by Nenette Rogers of NAMI Fairbanks, will be an open and heartfelt conversation exploring the role of spirituality and community in mental health and self-care. In alignment with the "Seasons of Self-Care" theme, this interfaith panel will reflect on how different traditions support emotional well-being, respond to life's challenges, and foster resilience across diverse spiritual landscapes. Discover how shared values of compassion, presence, and hope can nurture personal and collective healing.

  • Nenette Rogers is the Executive Director of NAMI Fairbanks and Ministry Leader for Celebrate Recovery at North Pole Church of the Nazarene. She is dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by mental health challenges and addiction. Through her leadership in both organizations, Nenette focuses on fostering healing, reducing stigma, and building resilience within the community.

Jody Hassel

Trauma Specialist, Center for Trauma and Embodiment

  • 5/2 2:15-3:15

    Nervous System Superpowers: Post Traumatic Growth in Praxis will integrate moments of lecture, discussion, and physical embodiment practices of mindfulness and trauma sensitive yoga. Using a mix of brief partner (or solo) work activities, lecture methods, and physical practice facilitation, I'll define some basics of Post Traumatic Growth from current research and offer points for engagement throughout. This session would work for the whole group or as a smaller workshop. The practices will be offered as options suitable for folks to observe or engage in as desired--no equipment or special clothing will be needed. Moments of mindful meditation and embodiment practices will be offered as examples and opportunities for understanding. Weaving in stories of my own trauma healing and survivorship, I will outline a process of recovery, share writing and thinking tools for reflection, and provide a sampling of restorative yoga exercises.


  • MFA, TCTSY-F, E-RYT 500


Shane Hopkins

Lead Pastor, The Lighthouse Church

Shawn Treadway

  • 5/1 11:00-12:00

    This session will be a discussion on recovering balance in family and building resilience in our Children and Relationships.

  • I’m a recovering alcoholic, Single Dad, and forever grateful for the Program called Alcoholics Anonymous, which changed my life. I have been blessed in God putting Marsha OSS in my life, and her selfless kindness started me on the road to recovery. And again By Gods grace Marsha gave me the phone number to True North Recovery were I completed the Recovery classes there and was aloud to reside at there sober living residence while I completed the steps with a sponsor, did ninety meetings in ninety days found myself, and by the fellowship of narcotics anonymous, and alcoholics anonymous I was… reborn, I’ve filled my cup to be able to be the father for my children they deserve and a son my father deserves. I am now a present Father to my kids with a great relationship with both, I have been working at True North Recovery for the past six months as a peer support. Helping people heal from their addictions, find a better way through recovery so they too can rebuild relationships with their children, family, and live a beautiful life in recovery. Just as I did.

Steve Reed

Episcopal Priest and Rector, St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church

  • 5/2 10:45-11:45

    The Sacred Seasons: Faith, Mental Health, and Self-Care panel, featuring local faith leaders Steve Reed, Linda Setterberg, and Shane Hopkins and facilitated by Nenette Rogers of NAMI Fairbanks, will be an open and heartfelt conversation exploring the role of spirituality and community in mental health and self-care. In alignment with the "Seasons of Self-Care" theme, this interfaith panel will reflect on how different traditions support emotional well-being, respond to life's challenges, and foster resilience across diverse spiritual landscapes. Discover how shared values of compassion, presence, and hope can nurture personal and collective healing.

  • Steve Reed is an ordained Episcopal priest and the Rector of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Fairbanks. A board-certified master chaplain with the International Conference of Police Chaplains, Steve brings over 20 years of experience in emergency services and ministry. He teaches a three-part class for area first responders on stress management, vicarious trauma, and compassion fatigue, drawing from more than 250 hours of training in critical incident stress management. Steve has served on Critical Incident Stress Management teams, deployed nationally with the Red Cross Spiritual Care Team, and remains dedicated to supporting those who serve others through crisis and recovery. He and his wife will celebrate 30 years of marriage this October.

Paige Poston

Coordinator, FWC

  • 5/2 9:30-10:30

    We’ll explore a “Swiss Cheese” approach to self-care to create a layered and comprehensive self-care plan. We’ll also discuss shared risk and protective factors and how community care and upstream prevention work together.

  • Paige has been the FWC Coordinator since October 2023. During her tenure, she’s committed herself to learning as much as possible about prevention strategies such as shared risk and protective factors. As someone with lived experiences, Paige is passionate about mental health and is excited to share that knowledge in a fun and accessible way!

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Each year, FWC hosts a FREE educational event to learn about mental health, wellness, and resilience! The goal is to use this knowledge to build a more resilient community.

  • Nope! While we have two packed days of amazing sessions and workshops, we know that not everybody can take two full days out of their busy lives. So if there's a specific session you're interested in, you're welcome to just attend that one!

  • Unfortunately we don't have recording capabilities for this conference, but we're looking into it for next year!

  • Yes, we'll have breakfast and lunch from Midnight Sun Catering on both day, plus snacks and drinks!

  • Nothing! Just like all FWC events, this is fully funded by a grant from the State of Alaska so it's completely free and open to the public!

  • We're providing tote bags which will include a notebook and pens for note-taking! Outside of that, bring whatever will make you comfortable so you can absorb all the knowledge

  • The conference is Thursday 5/1 and Friday 5/2 at the Pipeline Training Center off of Van Horn. The address is 3605 Cartwright Ct, Building C. Doors will open at 9am, and the first session will start at 9:30am each day. We're planning for it to end at 5pm each day.

  • Visit fairbankswellness.org/resiliencyconference to save your spot!