Nice to meet you!
I'm Jessica
I’m a former college professor (but forever a nerd) who turned to wellness coaching because I was stressed-out, depressed, and miserable. Throughout my healing journey, I tried it all – from the mainstream to the wacky. I scoured the research. I talked to the experts. I explored and experimented.
Am I now an enlightened guru here to show you the way to absolute peace and perfect balance? Nah.
But I can provide research-based resources and heart-centered support that will empower you to reclaim your energy, boost your resilience, and carve a path towards intentional living.
How it all began...
A surprising consequence of working as a professor for over a decade is that I learned a lot about mental health. College campuses are a hotbed of depression, anxiety, and burnout, and I both experienced and observed massive amounts of stress. My concern for myself, my students, and my colleagues led me to wellness coaching.
But I soon became disenchanted by mainstream wellness communities. Where were the evidence-based practices? Where was the diversity? Where was concern for public health, community-care, and social justice? Where was the acknowledgement that being human is complex and messy?
This frustration and disappointment inspired my no bullsh*t approach to wellness. I draw on my expertise as a scholar and coach, as well as my lived experiences, to create resources that are research-based, grounded in the real-world, and actually useful.
No fluff. No hype. No product-pushing.
I’m not a guru, influencer, or “before and after” cover girl who promises my methods solved all my problems and created a perfect life. I’m a real person with plenty of my own struggles and bad days. I know intimately what you’re experiencing, so I’m constantly researching strategies and solutions.
I’m practicing alongside you. I’m walking the journey with you.
are You my people?
- You're an edgewalker building bridges between different worlds and revolutionizing our ways of thinking
- You're a wayfinder on a journey towards growth and healing, with a heart and mind open to new experiences
- You're an unapologetic nerd constantly seeking new knowledge, who equally appreciates science, wonder, and whimsy
- You're a radical thinker and leader, fighting for justice and equality
If this sounds like you, you’re doing amazing things. But you’re also likely stressed-out and in need of support.
Stress is an inevitable part of life. But chronic stress is dangerous. We all need a toolkit to build a life that can weather any storm. I can help!
How Can I help you?
Printables
Downloadable and printable worksheets, planner templates, journal pages, and other resources to help you reflect, plan, and recharge.
Latest Blog Post
On the blog, I write about self-care, community-care, mindfulness, and mental health. Each post is grounded in research from credible sources.
Online Courses
Learn how to build a toolbox of skills, resources, & strategies that will improve self-advocacy, stress management, problem-solving, and overall wellness
My Core Values
Science
Scientific research is a staple of human understanding. I celebrate and embrace evidence-based practices. I incorporate credible research into my work and acknowledge sources (citation is a social justice practice). I also recognize that science is a human endeavor and is not infallible.
Integrity
Transparent, honest, and ethical business practices are nonnegotiable. I always disclose affiliations and sponsorships, and never endorse anything that conflicts with my values. I do not engage in sleazy marketing methods. I do not promote or speak at events that do not incorporate diverse voices. I am also welcoming of feedback and correction.
Intersectionality
My perspectives on feminism, human rights, and social justice are intersectional. This means acknowledging how our various social and political identities combine to create different modes of privilege, opportunity, and discrimination. Nuance, context, and lived experience must be acknowledged and respected.
Anti-Hyperconsumerism
Hyperconsumerism is fueled by capitalism and marketing. It reflects the commodification of things that ought not to be treated as commodities and the trend toward conspicuous consumption. The commodification of wellness concerns me and is something I research and critique.
Education & credentials
- Ph.D. in Communication & Information (2010) from The University of Tennessee
- M.A. in Communication (2006) from Bowling Green State University in Ohio
- B.A. in Communication Studies (2004) from Longwood University in Virginia
- Wellcoaches Certified Personal Coach (Certification number: 222316)