Phoenix brings 15+ years experience as an MSW and more than twenty years experience as
a prevention specialist, storyteller, storyteacher, motivational speaker and presenter. She has worked with over 20,000 students from the Mid-Hudson region, as well as numerous adults across the life span within a variety of settings (e.g., parent organizations, substance abuse treatment, juvenile justice, professional education, human service organizations, etc.).
Phoenix specializes in age-appropriate programs that utilize the power of story, metaphor and imagery to creatively address: substance abuse, wellness, recovery, bullying, diversity, LGBTQ issues, grief & loss, resiliency and spirituality. She is highly respected for her energetic, captivating, open-hearted approaches which skillfully address sensitive issues and emotionally charged content.
As an artist and drummer, Phoenix incorporates a number of percussion instruments, song and Native American-styled flutes into her performances. She also draws upon a collection of life experiences and lessons which add depth, richness, authenticity and compassion to much of the challenging subject matter addressed through her programs.
In addition to her extensive substance abuse prevention and community education experience, Phoenix draws upon 10+ years experience in community organizing and substance abuse coalition work when assisting community-based organizations. As a former project director of a federal Drug-Free Communities (DFC) grant initiative, Phoenix was responsible for administering and implementing an all-encompassing work plan which addressed capacity building, community outreach and mobilization, environmental prevention strategies, evaluation and media campaigns.