Welcome to Brite Beginnings
Therapy doesn’t have to happen in a sterile office or under fluorescent lights. My practice is rooted in a peaceful, nature-rich setting—with a quaint office nestled in the woods and the calming presence of animals close by. Whether we’re walking under the trees, sitting with a horse, or talking beside a therapy dog or cat, the space is intentionally designed to foster regulation, connection, and a deep sense of emotional safety.
Clients often describe my space as "magical" and tell me they feel seen, grounded, and safe here—many for the first time in a long time.
If you’re looking for something different, something deeper, and a place where healing unfolds naturally—you’re in the right place.
Brite Beginnings Offers:
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Walking With You Through Grief
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Pet Loss Support
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Regulation Through Safety and Connection
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Polyvagal Ponies Program
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Corporate and Workplace Workshops
Why Choose Me:
☘️When You Come to Brite Beginnings, You May Discover…
✨A Deeper Connection to Your Nervous System
I’ll gently guide you in noticing the rhythms of your body—how it responds to stress,
safety, and connection. Using the principles of Polyvagal Theory, you’ll learn to
recognize signs of dysregulation and build skills to return to calm, grounded states.
These aren’t just techniques—they’re pathways to self-trust and inner peace.
🐴Healing in the Presence of Nature and Animals
Here, nature and animals become part of your healing team. Whether it’s the quiet
strength of a horse, the whisper of wind through the trees, or the grounding feel of
earth beneath your feet, you’ll experience moments where healing unfolds naturally—
often without needing words.
❤️Stronger Boundaries and Softer Self-Talk
Together, we’ll explore what it means to let go of perfectionism and the pressure to
“do it all.” You’ll learn to honor your needs, speak your truth, and treat yourself with
the same compassion you so freely offer others.
🌙 Support Through Grief and Change
If you’re navigating loss or transition, I’ll meet you with empathy and spaciousness. Whether you’re grieving a person, a season of life, or a part of yourself, I’ll walk
beside you with tools and support that help you move through sorrow—not around it.
🐾Tender Space for Pet Grief and Loss
Losing an animal companion can be deeply painful. I honor the bond you shared and offer a space where your grief is seen, your memories are cherished, and
your healing can unfold gently. Whether through ritual, reflection, or simply being with the horses, you’ll be supported in honoring that love.
🌲A Sanctuary for the Soul
Brite Beginnings is nestled in a peaceful, wooded setting that many describe as “magical.” It’s a place where you can breathe deeply, show up exactly as you are,
and heal at a pace that feels right for you—without judgment or pressure.
🌼Whole-Person Growth That Lasts
This isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about reconnecting with your body, emotions, and values in a way that supports lasting wellness. My hope is that you leave not
only with insight, but with embodied tools and renewed clarity that stay with you long after our work together ends.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience guiding individuals through some of life’s most complex emotional challenges. After earning my master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling, I began my career in community mental health, supporting individuals struggling with addiction. I then spent eight years working within jail systems, providing care to incarcerated populations, before opening my private practice in 2018.
My greatest passions lie in grief counseling—particularly around pet loss—and in helping clients regulate their nervous systems to foster lasting emotional resilience and healing. I integrate animals into my therapeutic work, including horses, mini horses, donkeys, goats, dogs, and cats. I’ve personally experienced the profound calm, connection, and unconditional love animals offer, and I deeply believe in their power to heal. Throughout my life, animals have been a steady source of comfort and safety—especially during times when human connection felt out of reach. Their presence offers a unique, grounding connection that supports nervous system regulation, emotional release, and a deeper sense of peace.
I’ve trained with the Polyvagal Equine Institute, the Grief Recovery Institute, and EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association). I’m honored to walk alongside others as they navigate loss, trauma, and the many transitions life brings—helping them find meaning, regulation, and healing along the way.
Meet Heather:
Brite Beginnings Origin Story:
On January 1st, 2018 our community experienced yet another devastating loss in law enforcement. In an instant, countless lives were altered—some forever. And this pain… this “why”… is exactly why I am opening the gates to the next chapter: Brite Beginnings.
Named in honor of Dan Brite, whose story lit the path forward for me, Brite Beginnings offers equine-assisted psychotherapy and animal-based grief support to law enforcement, first responders, and their loved ones.
Bring us your sorrow, your silence, your exhaustion. Let our compassionate team—dogs, cats, goats, minis, horses, and me—help you rediscover the peace and connection that trauma may have taken from you. Let us walk beside you as you learn to believe again: that you can face each day with peace… and even joy.
Contact Me
My Client Promise:
I promise to walk beside you—through the pain, the doubt, and the quiet moments in between. At Brite Beginnings, my mission is to create a safe, compassionate space where healing feels possible.
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating grief, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Whether you're carrying the weight of loss, feeling overwhelmed by emotion, or simply longing to feel more like yourself again, I’m here to help you move through it with care and intention.
I am committed to helping you grow through life’s struggles, rediscover your strength, and gently move toward the life you envision. With the support of our team—two- and four-legged—you won’t be on this journey alone.