Alpine Academy
Erda, UT

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Aarika Maisak
New Clinical Director

Aarika Maisak has been serving as Alpine Academy's Clinical Director since February and prior to that worked the Alpine team for the past two and a-half years as a therapist. Aarika's clinical work has spanned the developmental spectrum. Prior to joining the Alpine team, Aarika completed her graduate work at Valley Mental Health KIDS and The Children's Center. She also worked as a contract therapist at Wellspring Child and Family Counseling, focusing on play therapy with youth ages 1-10. Practicing with children from toddlers to teenagers has solidified her love of working with adolescent girls. Aarika is well versed in a variety of modalities that enhance and expand the clinical approaches utilized at Alpine. She has been trained in EMDR by the Shapiro Institute, has advanced Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness training, and is well versed in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approaches. Whenever she gets the chance, she enjoys taking the opportunity to present as a guest lecturer. Aarika also provides mentoring to graduate students, particularly at her alma mater, Westminster College. This fulfills another of her passions for teaching and education.

Aarika is described by her colleagues as a pro - always prepared and highly professional. She is committed to best practices and a big-picture, team focus. Aarika is energetic and enthusiastic in all situations, regardless of the challenge.

Not all of the changes in Aarika's life are professional. Aarika and her husband, Mark, will soon be welcoming their first child! In their spare time the Maisak's enjoy traveling, camping, hiking, and trying out new, delicious restaurants.

Alpine Academy offers family-based residential treatment that is uniquely successful at helping teenage girls learn the skills to succeed at home, in school, and with their own families. Alpine is a part of Utah Youth Village, one of Utah's oldest and largest charities providing treatment to children and families in crisis.