Our Team
Sarah Hansen, M.Ed., LCPC
Hello, I am Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and the founder of Bigfoot Counseling. I specialize in trauma and addiction—and I believe in the power of transformation, even when it feels impossible.
I graduated with my bachelor's degree in psychology with an emphasis in addictions in 2008, and two weeks later started my master's program in Counseling and Human Services. After earning my master’s degree from the University of Idaho in 2010, I began walking alongside clients as they navigated some of life’s most difficult terrain. In July 2020, in the middle of a global pandemic—and while undergoing treatment for thyroid cancer—I launched Bigfoot Counseling. Starting something new during such an uncertain time was not easy, but it was deeply personal, challenging, and very rewarding. I came to understand how healing often begins in the messy, in-between places—where fear, strength, and hope all show up at once.
When I was choosing a name for my practice, I wanted something fun, Northwest-inspired, and meaningful. A friend jokingly suggested “Bigfoot,” and I loved it! It just fit.
I take a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to counseling and often incorporate EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help clients process painful experiences and reclaim their inner strength. More than anything, I believe in believing in yourself—especially when no one else has. Sometimes, the most radical thing you can do is believe in your own healing.
Outside of the office, I find joy in spending time with my family—playing cards or simply spending time with my sisters and brothers-in-law, childhood friends or new friends, and my three beloved dogs (a.k.a. the boys or monkeys).
I am most at home outdoors—fishing, hiking, camping, and getting my hands dirty while pretending to know something about gardening. I love to go on new adventures, and I love anything live, whether it is a great concert or a theatrical play, and I typically wind down with a good book—always ending the day with a good belly laugh from a favorite sitcom.
Sabrina Yeldon, Office Manager
Hi there, I am Sabrina the Office Manager – only because “Multitasking Ninja” is not an official job title (yet).
I proudly serve as the organizing, glitter-loving, always-has-a-plan, go-to office manager. With over 10 years of experience in the counseling office field, I have mastered the art of juggling tasks, soothing chaos, and adding just the right amount of sparkle—figuratively and literally. Born and raised in the heart of the beautiful PNW, I am blessed to help give back to the community where I grew up. I genuinely love helping people and making things run smoothly behind the scenes. I love what I do and the people I get to work with every day. Fueled by Red Bull, Zipfizz, and an undying love for chocolate and strawberry cheesecake, I thrive in the beautifully chaotic world of office life. I am an expert in the fine art of saying “yes” to everything (and somehow making it all work!). I am basically the human equivalent of an ultra-organized, multitasking superhero. If you need something—anything—there is a good chance I have it or know exactly where to get it. I thrive on finding humor in the chaos (and trust me, there is always chaos). I might not always succeed, but I always try. I am the go-to gal when you need a laugh, a quick fix, or the thing no one else can find.
I have a heart full of sunshine, a deep love for the ocean breeze and salty air, and a soft spot for sunflowers—they will always hold a special place in my heart. Crafting is my happy place, and I find peace in glue, glitter, and a good DIY challenge.
Family truly is everything to me. I have been lucky enough to be married to the most incredible, supportive husband, and together we make one rockstar team. We are basically a superhero duo (think Batman and Robin, but with more snacks and better teamwork).
My office motto? Organized chaos—with a splash of glitter.
My life motto? Say yes, laugh often, love big, and always bring snacks.
"Ohana means family"—and around here, that means everything.
Samantha Kalanick, PSS
Hello, my name is Samantha, and I am the Certified Peer Support Specialist at Bigfoot Counseling. I use my past trials and triumphs to walk alongside others in their healing journey, offering hope, strength, and understanding from someone who has truly been there. My goal is to share the resilience I have built with those who may still be finding their own.
I bring both professional training and lived experience to my role, and I am passionate about helping people feel seen, heard, and supported. I understand firsthand the courage it takes to rebuild a life, and I believe in the power of second chances, community, and authentic connection.
I am currently working toward becoming a Master of Social Work, and every step I take in this field deepens my commitment to empowering others. I strive to create a space where individuals can be themselves without judgment, and where every step forward—no matter how small—is honored.
Outside the office, I find peace in the outdoors—especially while fishing. I also enjoy spending quality time with my family, playing with my dog, caring for my plants, and being around horses. Nature and animals remind me to slow down, stay grounded, and embrace the simple joys in life. Whether I am supporting someone through a difficult day or casting a line on a quiet lake, I am fully present and committed.
Jen Fries, M.Ed., LCPC
Hello, my name is Jen, and I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with a deep passion for supporting individuals in their journey toward healing and growth. I hold a master’s degree in Counseling and Human Services from the University of Idaho, which has equipped me with a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of counseling. Currently, I serve as the Compliance Supervisor at Bigfoot Counseling, where I play a vital role in ensuring our practices meet the highest standards of care. I absolutely love working at Bigfoot Counseling. The collaborative environment we foster, coupled with our shared commitment to providing compassionate care, makes it a truly rewarding place to be. I am dedicated not only to the well-being of my clients but also to ongoing professional growth, continually seeking opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills through training and education.
Throughout my career, my path has led me in various directions, yet it consistently circles back to my primary calling: counseling and teaching. With a background in special education and school counseling, I have a particular understanding of working with children and their families, helping them navigate the resources available within the school system. I begin working with children as young as four years old, introducing them to the world of play therapy, a powerful tool that allows them to express their feelings and experiences in a safe and supportive environment. In addition to my work with younger children, I also find great fulfillment in supporting teenagers and adults as they face their unique challenges.
My therapeutic approach is informed by a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and client-centered therapies. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with autism, ADHD, trauma, and a range of mental health and substance use disorders. Each client I work with teaches me something new, and I am consistently inspired by their resilience and strength. In essence, my journey as a counselor is fueled by my commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others. I strive to create a safe space where individuals feel heard, valued, and empowered to take steps toward a healthier and happier life.
When I’m not at work, I cherish spending quality time with my family and friends. I enjoy engaging in games like BUNCO, boating on nearby lakes, and hanging out with my cats. I find peace and rejuvenation in the soothing hot springs of Montana and also indulge in the occasional concert, conference, or amusement park to unwind and connect with the beautiful community around me.
Jesse Ogle, PMHNP-BC
Hi, I am Jesse Ogle, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I was born and raised in Ohio and proudly served for 10 years in the United States Air Force. Before becoming a psychiatric provider, I worked as a critical care registered nurse, caring for patients in intensive care units and emergency departments across the country as a travel nurse.
When the pandemic hit in 2020, I saw firsthand how deeply it affected not just physical health, but mental health as well. It became clear to me that our country needed more specialized, compassionate mental health care—and that realization sparked my passion to become a psychiatric provider.
At Bigfoot Counseling, I work with both adolescents and adults, using a collaborative and individualized approach to care. My focus areas include mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, trauma-related concerns, and co-occurring substance use. I strive to create a safe and supportive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their treatment.
In addition to my work at Bigfoot, I also serve on the inpatient adolescent psychiatric unit at Kootenai Behavioral Health, giving me a well-rounded perspective across different levels of care. I’m currently pursuing my Doctorate (DNP) as part of my continued commitment to clinical excellence and leadership in mental health.
Now based in Post Falls, Idaho, I enjoy spending time with family, exploring the outdoors, and staying grounded through service and connection.
Autumn Gusdal, MSPED, LMSW
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Idaho. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with concentrations in Criminal Law and Communication Studies from the University of Idaho. I also earned a Master of Science in Special Education (MSPED) from Ball State University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Boise State University.
I bring a compassionate and knowledgeable approach to therapy, grounded in my experience working with children and families affected by autism. My therapeutic style is integrative, drawing from person-centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
I believe that therapy is most effective when built on trust and mutual respect. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences, understand the function of their behavior, and work toward meaningful change.
Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy a variety of hobbies that help me relax and stay creative. I am passionate about gardening and landscaping—there is something deeply rewarding about designing outdoor spaces and watching them come to life. In the evenings, I like to spend time in the kitchen, trying out new recipes and exploring different cuisines. I have always had a strong appreciation for western traditions, especially rodeos, and I enjoy attending them whenever I can. Whether it is a quiet afternoon by the lake or a walk along the shoreline, spending time near water is one of my favorite ways to recharge.
Beth Gusdal, Administrative Assistant
Hello! I am Beth, the Administrative Assistant here at Bigfoot Counseling. Whether I am answering phones or connecting with clients, I feel truly honored to support and get to know those on their healing journey.
When I am not at the front desk, you will usually find me at home tending to my ever-growing plant collection—or doting on my beloved lizard babies (they definitely run the place). I am an avid reader with a soft spot for independent bookstores—The Well-Read Moose and Barnes & Noble know me well! I also love spending time with my family, going on bike rides, and finding new adventures with my brothers.
I am currently a student at Lewis Clark Community College, and I will be continuing my education at Eastern Washington University to pursue a degree in Environmental Science. Giving back is important to me, and I enjoy volunteering in environmental clean-up efforts and humanitarian service projects. Whether in nature, the classroom, or the community, I am passionate about making a positive impact.
Morgan Covey, Intern
I am a first-year Marriage and Family Therapy student at Whitworth University. As an intern at Bigfoot Counseling, I am gaining hands-on experience in providing compassionate, client-centered therapy under the supervision of experienced professionals. I work with individuals, couples, and families, providing a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your challenges and discover new ways to navigate life. I am currently trained in Gottman Therapy Level One and recently completed Level One in Emotion-Focused Therapy.
Becoming a therapist has been a dream of mine for a long time. My therapy journey was fueled by a deep desire to create a space where people feel heard and supported.
When I am not in the therapy room, you can usually find me playing with my dogs, kayaking, or thrift shopping. I believe healing happens in many ways, and I strive to bring warmth and authenticity to every session.
Michelle Dial, Intern
Hi, I am a dedicated counselor intern with a unique combination of expertise in both organizational leadership and mental health counseling. Holding a Master of Arts (MA) in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University and currently completing the last phase of receiving a Master of Science (MS) in Mental Health Counseling from Eastern Oregon University. This combination allows me to offer a distinctive approach that entails a deep understanding of what emotional well-being brings to both counseling and career leadership strategies.
I bring a holistic approach to supporting individuals and teams alike. With a passion for fostering personal growth, resilience, and workplace well-being, I integrate proven leadership strategies with compassionate counseling techniques to help clients navigate challenges, enhance emotional intelligence, and achieve their goals.
Whether working with individuals in mental health therapy or leading individuals and teams toward positive changes in their careers, I focus on creating environments that empower both personal and professional transformation. Drawing from an understanding of mental health and organizational dynamics, I am committed to applying evidence-based practices that foster a safe and supportive environment for all individuals, helping them build resilience, cultivate mental wellness, and develop coping strategies that achieve balance and empowerment in both their personal and professional growth.
When it is time to relax, I enjoy spending time with my family in the outdoors. We backcountry snowshoe, fly fish, spend time in the mountains 4 wheeling, and enjoy boating on the lake. At home I enjoy, reading, gardening, and the family dogs.
Adrienne Murphy, MBA, Ph.D.
Hi. I am Adrienne. I was born and raised in Ireland—the land of stories, conversation and relationship—I bring a deep respect for the narratives that shape both our professional and personal lives. My journey has led me from weaving the complex stories of business to exploring the lived experiences that define our everyday human existence. As a phenomenological psychologist, I work with individuals and families navigating career and life transitions, helping them uncover the meaning within their experiences and adapt those insights to design their futures. Drawing from over 20 years of client-centered professional and personal work, I support clients in mastering decision-making, emotional regulation, and authentic growth. Together, we honor the past, navigate the present, and create pathways to a future that feels truly your own.
I find joy in quiet, creative moments. I love caring for cut flowers and visiting public gardens, which bring me peace and inspiration. Recently, I’ve rekindled old interests—watching movies, cooking soups, reading, and drawing—activities I may not be great at, but genuinely enjoy. I’m also fascinated by folklore and ancient female artifacts, which connect me to deeper stories of the past and spark my curiosity.