The Ridge Team

I am a board-certified psychiatrist with approximately a decade of experience working in a variety of clinical settings. Throughout my career, I have also developed a passion for teaching and have had the opportunity to educate and mentor numerous psychiatry residents and medical students. At one point in my career, I was honored to serve on the faculty at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine.

I strongly believe that no two people are exactly alike. Children and adults may experience similar symptoms, but the experiences, circumstances, and underlying factors contributing to those symptoms can be very different. Because of this, I believe the most effective treatment begins with taking the time to understand each person as an individual.

Medication can be an important part of psychiatric treatment, but I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Before recommending medication changes, I feel it is important to more fully understand you or your child, including current concerns, experiences, and individual needs. When medication is appropriate, decisions about treatment are made collaboratively, with thoughtful discussion about the available options and the goals of care. My goal is to provide individualized, thoughtful psychiatric care that looks beyond symptoms and considers the whole person.

With an impressive career spanning over 25 years, Dr. Jin brings a wealth of expertise in multiple areas of mental health care to his role at Ridge RTC. Dr. Jin is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in General Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry, Adolescent Psychiatry, and Psychosomatic Medicine. His extensive background includes notable roles such as Chief Psychiatrist at the Department of Juvenile Justice in New York City, where he served for eight years, and as the Medical Director and Fellowship Training Director at North Shore/LIJ Health System for five years. Additionally, his passion for education has seen him serve as a teaching faculty member at Delaware Psychiatric Centre and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Recently, Dr. Jin was honored with the American Psychiatric Association’s Distinguished Life Fellow status in 2024, a recognition bestowed upon psychiatrists who have made significant contributions to the field of psychiatry. This prestigious award underscores his commitment and impact on mental health care.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist with more than 11 years of experience providing compassionate, individualized psychiatric care to patients across the lifespan. Throughout my career, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults, which has given me a broad perspective on how mental health needs can evolve throughout different stages of life.

My clinical experience includes treating a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, bipolar disorder, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and cognitive impairment. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individualized treatment interventions, with an emphasis on understanding each person as a whole rather than focusing solely on symptoms or a diagnosis.

I believe psychiatric care is most effective when it is thoughtful, collaborative, and tailored to the individual. In my work with adolescents, I value the opportunity to partner with clients, families, therapists, and other members of the treatment team to better understand each young person’s needs and support their overall treatment goals.

I completed both medical school and my psychiatry residency at the University of Kansas School of Medicine. I am licensed to practice medicine in Maine, New Hampshire, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma and provide psychiatric services both in person and through telepsychiatry.

I am passionate about providing compassionate, whole-person psychiatric care and helping clients and families feel supported as they navigate mental health treatment. Raising five children has given me an even greater appreciation for the individuality of young people and the many different ways they grow, communicate, cope, and respond to challenges. I carry that perspective into my clinical work and take the time to understand the whole person behind the symptoms.

I am a board-certified psychiatrist with approximately a decade of experience working in a variety of clinical settings. Throughout my career, I have also developed a passion for teaching and have had the opportunity to educate and mentor numerous psychiatry residents and medical students. At one point in my career, I was honored to serve on the faculty at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine.

I strongly believe that no two people are exactly alike. Children and adults may experience similar symptoms, but the experiences, circumstances, and underlying factors contributing to those symptoms can be very different. Because of this, I believe the most effective treatment begins with taking the time to understand each person as an individual.

Medication can be an important part of psychiatric treatment, but I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Before recommending medication changes, I feel it is important to more fully understand you or your child, including current concerns, experiences, and individual needs. When medication is appropriate, decisions about treatment are made collaboratively, with thoughtful discussion about the available options and the goals of care. My goal is to provide individualized, thoughtful psychiatric care that looks beyond symptoms and considers the whole person.

My name is Daimian Lewis, and I’m one of the nurses at The Ridge Maine. Born and raised in central Maine, I earned my BSN from Husson University. I began my nursing career as a nurse in a hospital setting before joining The Ridge to follow my passion for mental health care. Before I became a nurse, I worked as community adolescent behavioral health professional and as a certified nursing assistant. At The Ridge, I collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to care for children and adolescents facing mental health challenges, trauma, and complex conditions in our residential treatment setting. Seeing our patients grow, heal, and discover their strengths is one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, spending time outdoors, and cooking. I also have a love for music and connecting with others, both of which keep me grounded and inspired. I’m grateful to be part of The Ridge Maine and to contribute to a team dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to the young people we serve every day.

I began my journey at The Ridge Maine in the summer of 2007. In college, I studied psychology, mental health, and business. After earning a Bachelors degree, I was searching for fulfilling work with youth. An opportunity to work for The Ridge Maine came to me at the perfect time in my life. I quickly fell in love with the program, the people and most of all the mission! I have enjoyed being a witness to the many incredible transformations, and family reunification over the years. I have supported The Ridge Maine in many aspects and in various roles, but have primarily managed administrative and health services. As the Compliance Director, I oversee licensing, consult with management, maintain policies and provide record management and system administration services. Although my work is behind the scenes, I know that my contributions are important and are serving a higher purpose. The Ridge is a special place and I have intentionally chosen to maintain a long term relationship with this unique and successful organization. I am a Maine native and enjoy the beautiful changing seasons, peace and lifestyle that Maine has to offer. I feel grateful to be raising my two sons here. I enjoy entertaining, photography, interior design, boating and most of all spending time with my family. One of my favorite quotes is, “I alone cannot change the world but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples.” – Mother Teresa

My name is Christa Nadeau, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I was born in Connecticut but have lived the majority of my life in Maine, and enjoy all that the state has to offer. I attended school at the University of Maine Farmington and received my M.Ed. from the University of Southern Maine. I have worked in residential treatment for most of my professional career and truly enjoy and appreciate the work that can occur in a residential therapeutic setting. I have been a therapist at The Ridge Maine since 2010. In addition, I also have a private practice that focuses on the treatment of adolescent girls and boys. Furthermore, I have worked closely with several school districts to provide high-quality outpatient counseling services for adolescents experiencing difficulties during these formative years. I take full advantage of the outdoors during the distinct and beautiful seasons that New England provides and enjoy activities such as; hiking, camping, ice fishing, and snowmobiling. My love for the outdoors and my specialty in working with adolescents make The Ridge a good match for me. I believe that connecting with nature supports people in healing and learning about themselves. The atmosphere at The Ridge Maine facilitates adolescents to learn and see aspects of themselves that they would not get in touch with within an alternate environment. My favorite motto when working with adolescents is to take one day at a time. If that is learned early on in one’s life, I believe that this skill can lead to many years of health and happiness. My favorite motto is a part of the poem Invictus, “I am the Master of my fate, I am the Captain of my soul.”

Erica Goss has been a licensed clinical professional counselor for 9 years, all of which have been spent serving youth in Maine. Erica has 5 years of experience leading clinical care in residential treatment settings. Her philosophy in treatment is a relational approach, and she embraces the importance of physical wellness and its positive effects on mental health. Outside of work, Erica enjoys time with her family, taking dance classes, and focusing on physical health and wellness.

My name is Alex Blackstone. I was born and have lived in Maine for most of my life, finding a love for all things outdoors and adventurous. Growing up, I participated in Boy Scouts and was an outdoor camp counselor. The experience offered me opportunities to grow personally, while enjoying my love for nature through hiking, camping, weeklong canoe trips, and deep sea fishing. I consider myself an avid fan of all things sports and enjoy organizing team activities at The Ridge Maine. I have been fortunate to benefit from excellent teachers and mentors throughout my educational journey and hope to share these lessons and insight with the young adults here at The Ridge. I received a BS in Biology with a concentration in Psychobiology, the study of mental functioning and behavior in relation to other biological processes, from Albright College. I was the campus Greenhouse manager for several years and I have enjoyed drawing from that experience, while working with the residents in the The Ridge Maine gardens. While in college, I discovered my passion for Rugby and played for many years. It taught me a lot about the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork and trust. I was also involved in work with several charities including, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) and Muscular Dystrophy. I currently spend time during the winter months, as Director of the Augusta Warming Center, a day shelter set up and funded by United Way, providing assistance and resources to those who are in need in the state’s capitol. Since I grew up in Northern Maine, I am no stranger to cold winters and I really enjoy the work I do at the center. As a behavior specialist at The Ridge Maine, I am able incorporate my passions, strengths and experiences into my work with these teens. My favorite quote: “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” – Benjamin Franklin

My name is Corinne Coopshaw and I am the art teacher and also the staffing and training coordinator. I was born and raised here in this beautiful and adventurous state of Maine and most of my childhood was spent in the great outdoors with my siblings. There was always something to do, whether it be splitting wood, fishing, farm work, hunting, or playing in the lakes. After graduating from high school, I chose a path in the United States Navy as a heavy equipment operator with the Seabees. The time I spent in the service is a chapter of my life that I am incredibly grateful for. Serving provided me with opportunities and experiences that I would not have had anywhere else. It was not until I left the military that I decided to enroll at Adrian College in Adrian, Michigan. There I earned a Bachelor’s degree, with a major in Art Therapy and a minor in Criminal Justice. My journey through college started with the intention of becoming a juvenile probation officer. That shifted after realizing that it would not be the best place for me to help youth in the capacity I was seeking. I feel that the difference that I wanted to make with youth is something I can accomplish through my role here at The Ridge Maine. It is more fulfilling than I could have imagined! I enjoy being a part of and a witness to the phenomenal growth that transpires among the kids and their families. I believe that kids excel at The Ridge Maine because of the consistency throughout the program and the support they receive from the compassionate staff. As a team, we do our best to provide them with the tools they need to regulate their emotions and assist them in overcoming obstacles, no matter what they may be. Our approach is not typically a part of a public school curriculum and is one of the many unique aspects of The Ridge. Everything that the kids learn at The Ridge Maine helps build a fundamental foundation designed to set them up for successful futures and restore their self-confidence. One of my favorite quotes that I use with the kids is “Can Do!” and not just because it is the Seabees motto. Another is, “Not one living soul in this universe ever accomplished anything by approaching a problem saying, ‘I Can’t.’ “

My name is Jamie Sanders, and I was born in Wyoming but spent most of my time growing up in a small town called Sheridan in Aroostook County, Maine. I am married with two wonderful daughters, and we have lived on the coast of Maine since 2013. We love the ocean and spending time on the water. I like to spend my free time with my family and friends. We enjoy trying new foods, exploring our beautiful state, discovering new things, watching movies, or playing various card and board games. I have a Bachelor of Science in Mental Health and Human Services, a Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Technician certification, and a certificate in Human Resource Management. I have always had a passion for helping people and feel like I can make a difference. When I learned about The Ridge Maine, I felt like it was the perfect fit. The Ridge Maine helps empower teenagers by providing them with the tools to help them create their own success. I enjoy being surrounded by people that want to help others achieve their best. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”

I’ve called Maine home since 2005 — and I’m here to stay. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, with a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Vermont. I’ve been practicing for over 20 years, working with adolescents and young adults in a variety of settings, including private practice, residential treatment, youth and family services, and the Department of Corrections. My clinical approach is grounded in short-term, solution-focused modalities such as Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for meaningful work and lasting change, and I focus on building skills clients can carry forward into their lives. Outside of work, I love exploring the outdoors with my husband and two children — hiking, skiing, and biking through Maine’s beautiful landscapes.

I moved from PA to Maine for my undergraduate degree in Wilderness Therapy in 2007. For me, Maine was an instant feeling of appreciation and connection to what I love to do and the environment I wanted to surround myself with. Agriculture, camping, outdoor adventures, trees for miles, and generous options for solitude or social connections all equated to home for me. It was a natural progression to seek further education in obtaining a degree as a clinical Social Worker through the University of Maine. My professional work experiences include serving in the mental health field for over 10 years working with adolescents and adults from foster care, survivors of domestic violence, serving Maine’s indigenous tribes seeking paths to recovery from substance use, and serving adolescents in need in wilderness and behavioral support settings. With a high regard to cultural competency and social justice, I incorporate a strength-based and biopsychosocial perspective through a multicultural lens and am grounded in narrative, cognitive and structural family theories. I incorporate a wide range of interventions and place great emphasis on the importance of the therapeutic relationship and seeing the individual and family system as the leading expert. I find immense fulfillment in seeking innovative ways to help communities and individuals thrive within themselves and their environments. In what other field can you combine the ability to offer compassion, inspire hope and teach the skills to overcome challenges with all ages with any level of distress in their lives? Well, the answer is any field, but the mental health field is where people who lost knowledge of their inherent worth get connected with what matters most in their lives, the tools that help them to determine a life worth living and most importantly, that greatness exists within you. That’s a career worth living for me.

Linda Stapleton is a licensed therapist with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals on their path to healing. She began her career in 1991 with the Department of Veterans Affairs, working at a Veterans’ Outreach Center in Cleveland, Ohio, where she supported more than 1,500 veterans returning from the Persian Gulf War. Her early work also included leading peer support groups and providing counseling for Vietnam Veterans. Linda earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Art from Cleveland State University, and later completed her Master’s in Clinical Social Work at Case Western Reserve University. She went on to serve as a PTSD therapist at the VA Hospital in Brecksville, Ohio, and later became a Team Leader at the Sam Rayburn Memorial Veterans Hospital in Bonham, Texas. In 2004, Linda transitioned to full-time private practice, where she specializes in trauma, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and teen behavioral challenges. She brings warmth, insight, and deep clinical experience to her work with clients of all ages.

I was born and raised in Maine, and I’m proud to support adolescents and their families in the community that shaped me. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), I am passionate about helping young people recognize their strengths, navigate life’s challenges, and build meaningful, lasting change.

I believe that genuine growth happens when we are willing to step outside of our comfort zones, but never alone. My approach is rooted in creating a safe, supportive, and trusting therapeutic environment where adolescents feel empowered to take healthy risks, develop new skills, and work toward their treatment goals. While the process of healing is not always easy, I believe that discomfort, when paired with compassion and support, can become a catalyst for meaningful transformation.

My clinical work draws from a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed care, and experiential interventions such as equine-assisted psychotherapy. I strive to tailor treatment to each adolescent’s unique needs while collaborating closely with families and multidisciplinary teams to foster lasting success. My professional experience includes residential treatment, community mental health, family therapy, group therapy, and care coordination, with a strong emphasis on individualized, strengths-based care.

Above all, I believe that every person is capable of growth and change. My goal is to help each adolescent discover resilience they may not yet see in themselves, build confidence in their abilities, and leave treatment with the tools needed to create a life that feels meaningful and authentic.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with more than a decade of experience working with adolescents, families, and individuals navigating complex mental health challenges. My clinical background includes working in high-acuity settings, where I have supported clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma-related symptoms, emotional dysregulation, behavioral challenges, and difficulties within family and interpersonal relationships.

I take a warm, collaborative, and strengths-based approach to therapy. I believe meaningful progress begins with creating a therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, respected, and safe enough to be honest about their experiences. I work alongside clients to better understand the connections between thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships while developing practical skills they can use both during treatment and beyond.

My therapeutic approach draws from evidence-based and experiential interventions, with a strong focus on trauma-informed care, emotional regulation, family systems, and building healthy relationships. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and incorporate trauma-focused approaches when clinically appropriate to help clients process difficult experiences and develop greater emotional resilience. I recognize that every client has a unique story, and I work to tailor treatment to each person’s individual needs, strengths, and goals.

I am particularly passionate about helping adolescents and families strengthen communication, develop healthier patterns of interaction, build effective coping skills, and recognize their own capacity for growth. I view therapy as a collaborative process and strive to help clients leave treatment with not only greater insight, but also concrete tools and confidence they can carry into their everyday lives.

Outside of the therapy office, I enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring Maine, and making memories with my family and pets.

I have always felt called to this work. Like many in this field, I grew into the roles of teacher, counselor, and caregiver long before I had formal titles. From my earliest memories, this path felt less like a choice and more like a vocation. Carl Jung wrote, “As far as we can discern, the sole purpose of human existence is to kindle a light of meaning in the darkness of mere being,” and I hold that truth deeply.

Research consistently shows that a warm, nurturing relationship with even one supportive adult can profoundly shape a child’s emotional, social, and academic development. Likewise, decades of therapeutic research identify the strength of the therapeutic alliance as the single most powerful predictor of positive outcomes. These principles have guided my work from the beginning.

After nearly a decade supporting adults with severe and persistent mental illness, I transitioned into Home and Community Treatment, building virtual residential programs for children at risk of losing family placements. This work illuminated how deeply systemic forces shape our lives and taught me to move fluidly within those systems. I learned that meaningful change requires integrated, holistic, and adaptive care—attuned to the individual, the family, and the broader environment. These experiences grounded me in humility, and nurtured an awe for resilience, and an awareness of the complexity of human feeling.

Over the next five years, I focused on trauma and attachment, researching human development, biophysiology and sensory interventions, and clinical psychopathology, while teaching parenting and coping skills using a strengths-based and outcome-oriented approach to treatment and intervention. Recognizing the importance of continuing my own growth, I expanded into adjunct faculty roles, private practice, and advanced study. I completed my doctoral degree and earned certifications in multiple evidence-based and research frameworks.

I hold a Doctorate in Education, a Master’s in psychology and counseling with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health, and Baccalaureate degrees in Social Science and English. I am certified in CBT, DBT, ACT, and MI modalities, with specialties in mood, trauma, anxiety, and attachment related concerns. I continue to teach, maintain a private practice, and in 2024 began consulting with The Ridge Maine. Its beautiful setting, healing environment, and philosophy—rooted in addressing emotional foundations through intensive, integrative care—align deeply with my beliefs about how lasting change truly occurs.

I am a compassionate, empathetic therapist with a deep commitment to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel empowered to be their authentic selves. I specialize in humanistic, person-centered approaches and believe strongly in the power of collaboration in the therapeutic process. I often integrate expressive arts into my work, using creativity as a tool to help clients process trauma, explore emotions, and develop essential coping skills. My experience includes working with teens navigating a wide range of diagnoses and life challenges. I tailor my approach to meet each individual’s unique needs, helping them build resilience, self-awareness, and emotional regulation. Above all, I believe in the inherent strength and potential within every person and am dedicated to supporting clients on their journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery.

I moved from PA to Maine for my undergraduate degree in Wilderness Therapy in 2007. For me, Maine was an instant feeling of appreciation and connection to what I love to do and the environment I wanted to surround myself with. Agriculture, camping, outdoor adventures, trees for miles, and generous options for solitude or social connections all equated to home for me. It was a natural progression to seek further education in obtaining a degree as a clinical Social Worker through the University of Maine. My professional work experiences include serving in the mental health field for over 10 years working with adolescents and adults from foster care, survivors of domestic violence, serving Maine’s indigenous tribes seeking paths to recovery from substance use, and serving adolescents in need in wilderness and behavioral support settings. With a high regard to cultural competency and social justice, I incorporate a strength-based and biopsychosocial perspective through a multicultural lens and am grounded in narrative, cognitive and structural family theories. I incorporate a wide range of interventions and place great emphasis on the importance of the therapeutic relationship and seeing the individual and family system as the leading expert. I find immense fulfillment in seeking innovative ways to help communities and individuals thrive within themselves and their environments. In what other field can you combine the ability to offer compassion, inspire hope and teach the skills to overcome challenges with all ages with any level of distress in their lives? Well, the answer is any field, but the mental health field is where people who lost knowledge of their inherent worth get connected with what matters most in their lives, the tools that help them to determine a life worth living and most importantly, that greatness exists within you. That’s a career worth living for me.

Michelle Campos: Therapist, LCPC-C / I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC-C) with more than 15 years of experience working with adolescents and their families. Before becoming a therapist, I spent 13 years as a high school science teacher, which allows me to present therapeutic concepts in ways that are relatable, practical, and easy for teens to understand. My goal is to meet clients where they are, not where society believes they should be, helping them discover their own strengths and path forward.

Growing up in a border town in far West Texas taught me firsthand how culture, family, identity, and community shape a young person’s experience. I understand the importance of honoring each client’s unique story and creating a space where they feel seen, respected, and valued. I am particularly passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals and helping them embrace their differences rather than viewing them as deficits.

As a trauma-informed therapist, I recognize that healing is not one-size-fits-all. I utilize a variety of evidence-based approaches and creative interventions to help clients process experiences in ways that work best for them. My style is direct, intentional, honest, and transparent, while remaining compassionate and supportive. I believe that meaningful growth happens within authentic relationships, and I strive to create an environment where clients feel safe enough to be themselves without fear of judgment.

Many clients appreciate that I bring both professionalism and humor into the therapy room. Whether we’re navigating difficult emotions or celebrating progress, I believe laughter can be a powerful part of healing. My therapy dog often joins sessions, providing comfort, connection, and a calming presence.

Outside of counseling, I am an adventurer at heart. I hold a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, have worked at Disney World, traveled extensively, and even gone diving with sharks. I love experiencing new cultures, sharing good food, and have never been known to turn down anything homemade. While life has provided me with a wealth of meaningful experiences, I continue to approach the world with curiosity, wonder, and a playful spirit. I firmly believe there is strength in holding onto your sense of joy and authenticity, and I encourage my clients to do the same as they navigate their own journeys

I have lived off and on in Maine since 2012, having most recently moved back in 2020. I started working in mental health in 2021, working as a psychiatric technician for 4.5 years in 2 different hospitals. It was while doing this work that I felt called to get my master’s degree in counseling psychology with emphasis in creative Arts at the University of Maine Farmington, and graduated in 2025 to get my LCPC-cc. I got my bachelor’s in fine arts at the Kansas City Art Institute, and I believe that creativity can be a powerful component of holistic healing. My theoretical orientation is a humanistic blend of person-centered theory with existentialism where I approach my clients with unconditional positive regard, believing that all of us are striving towards self-actualization and that developing meaning and purpose are central components to healthy development and overall sense of well-being. Developing rapport with my clients is central to my practice, and I do my best to convey empathy while developing a relationship based on understanding, respect, and trust. In my spare time, I love spending time outdoors in the beautiful state of Maine hiking, surfing, snowboarding, and paddling white water. I am an avid music, literature, and art lover who enjoys time with my loved ones, pets, and nature.

My name is Jaclyn Gordon. I was born in Frankfort, Maine, and was raised in the surrounding area. I have lived all across the country and abroad and found that there is no place quite like Maine. I am very happy to be home and growing roots! When not at The Ridge Maine, I enjoy reading, playing my guitar, watching my dog run and daydreaming by the ocean. Now that I’m home, many of my days are spent with family and the comfort that they provide. I have experience working in a Residential Treatment Center with adults who suffer from addiction, trauma, and PTSD. I developed a passion for working with youth when I saw the needs that had not been met in childhood that directly impacted my client’s development and choices in adulthood. I desired to meet the problem at its source and be a part of the solution, which I found at The Ridge Maine. I love the program’s structure, the abundant compassion of the staff and watching young lives transformed! My favorite quote is from Dr. Seuss: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”

My name is Annie Grotton, and I was born and raised in Midcoast Maine, where I was active in basketball and volunteering in my community. I ventured to central Maine for college and attended Thomas College to earn my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. I later completed my master’s degree in criminology, also from Thomas College and began my work in the mental health field in 2021. My experience has led me to work in two different teen residential settings as a discharge planner, most recently for Ridge Maine. I love being able to make connections with families, providers, and programs all over the country! My passion is helping clients find supports and resources to help them transition successfully home after they have stabilized in our programs. In my personal time, I enjoy camping, being outside and adventuring around our beautiful state with my husband and our son. Maine has it all! From all four seasons, to mountains, lakes, oceans and yes, even a desert, I can’t think of anywhere better to be! While I may enjoy the occasional tropical vacation, Maine will always be home. I am thankful for the Ridge Maine team that I get to collaborate with every day!

My name is Jen Poliquin. I was born and raised in Maine. I have a love of athletics, nature and holism. My love of athletics led me to a self designed major in Athletic Training from the University of Southern Maine. While creating that self design I incorporated many psychology classes and fell in love with it. This passion led me to a career in helping others be their best. I have worked with children with Autism for many years, discovering the world of Applied Behavioral Analysis, a love that I continually pursue,working toward my masters degree. Joining the The Ridge Maine team feels like a natural fit for who I am and how I work, love and heal in the world. I would say I am a relationship-centered human being, believing that clear relationships are central to all we do. As a learning community, we focus on understanding each other, supporting each other’s individual and collective well being, creativity and development. I personally strive to be open and create a supportive, safe environment where all of us – residents, staff and therapists continue expanding healthy boundaries and connecting across differences without judgment. My learning approach is rooted in peace, nature and community. When I am not working I spend my time living life with my family. We laugh, love and adventure together. Our family mantra is: We think beyond “the way it is” to “the way it can be”.

My name is James Lott and I am the Equine Program Manager at Ridge Maine. I am originally from Greenwood, Mississippi where my love and passion for horses was born on our family farm. I grew up training horses with my grandfather. After graduating High School, I joined the United States Marine Corps. Having that experience changed my perspective on life and foretold how blessed I am to live in Maine. I was branded with core values, a strong work ethic, and humility. Managing a team became second nature. The Marine Corps also taught me that everyone is different and should be trained and taught individually. After my service was complete, I took a leap of faith and owned a small business in Midcoast Maine. In 2022, my company was acquired by a larger company. I was then able to adjust my bearings and find something that brought me true fulfillment by choosing a career at Ridge RTC. Through the equine program I teach horsemanship, riding lessons and daily life skills through animal care. Meanwhile, I am also growing personally and professionally everyday. My experience has taught me that everyone should be treated with compassion, patience, kindness, and tolerance. Calamity must be matched with serenity. Find humor in the hardships, and stay in the present.

Supporting the educational needs of clients at Ridge Maine is the culmination of my life experiences, education, and passions. I earned my Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Maine and later completed graduate studies at the University of Maine at Farmington, earning my Maine 282 certification as a special educator for grades 8–12.

Before joining Ridge, I spent five years as a high school special education teacher, where I had the privilege of working with students with a wide range of strengths, abilities, and challenges. I believe every student has unique strengths waiting to be discovered. My passion is helping each individual identify their “top shelf”—their highest potential—and empowering them to reach it with confidence and purpose.

Outside the classroom, I am an avid equestrian and lifelong horse enthusiast. Three of my horses are also part of the therapy program at Ridge, creating a special connection between two of my greatest passions. Horses have an incredible ability to build trust, ease anxiety, and create opportunities for connection and learning that may otherwise be difficult to access. One of the most rewarding parts of my role is hearing about my horses through the eyes and experiences of our clients.

At Ridge, my goal is to create a calm, welcoming, and supportive learning environment where clients feel safe to grow, take healthy risks, and experience success. Through individualized educational activities, I strive to build confidence, celebrate progress, and inspire hope for each client’s educational journey and future. I believe that when students experience success—no matter how small—they begin to see new possibilities for themselves, and that is where lasting growth begins.

“I’m a people person by nature, an educator at heart, and a problem-solver by mindset.”