DURANGO, Colo., Jan. 10, 2022 – Open Sky is excited to announce that Mariah Loftin, MA, LPC has been promoted to Clinical Director. Mariah brings a wealth of skill and knowledge to her new role and has over 15 years of experience working with youth, young adults, and their families. She has been an integral member of Open Sky’s treatment team as a Clinical Therapist for 10 years. As Clinical Director, Mariah will lead Open Sky’s treatment team in delivering a powerful and transformative therapeutic experience for students and families, embodying Open Sky’s core values of courage, community, and excellence.

Mariah replaces Sebastiaan Zuidweg, MA, LPC, who is transitioning out of the Clinical Director role to pursue an exciting passion project in Durango’s local community. Sebastiaan will remain at Open Sky in a leadership role as Assistant Clinical Director, supporting the ongoing development of the clinical team by collaborating with therapists on cases and, in some instances, serving as a co-therapist. OpenSky is excited to support Sebastiaan in his new venture and look forward to his continued contributions to the Open Sky community.

“Stepping into an overall leadership role was the next logical step for Mariah,” said Emily Fernandes, LCSW, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Open Sky. “Mariah is attuned to the evolving needs of our community, and she has the confidence and courage to step into challenges and consistently strives for excellence. From supporting field guides on her team to using her position as Senior Clinical Therapist to invest in the growth of other therapists, Mariah has always maintained a passion and skill for leadership and development.”

In addition to her work as Clinical Director, Mariah will continue to carry a limited caseload of students, supported by an Assistant Therapist. Mariah skillfully blends her background as a psychotherapist, behaviorist, and art therapist to build deep and positive connections with students and parents while supporting the family system through change. She is recognized by clients and peers for her open personality, positive nature, and tenacious dedication.

“I am humbled and excited to step into the Clinical Director role and engage in the things I am most passionate about: developing clinical expertise, collaboration, and helping people to thrive,” said Mariah. “I look forward to supporting our strong team continuing to be at the forefront of our industry, offering the highest level of clinical, medical, and familial expertise.”

For more information, contact Open Sky’s admissions team at 970-759-8324 or visit openskywilderness.com. 

About Open Sky Wilderness Therapy
Open Sky Wilderness Therapy is the premier family-centered wilderness therapy experience for early adolescents (12-14), adolescents (14-17), young adults (18-30) and their families, since 2006. Nestled in the mountains of southwest Colorado and the canyon country of southeast Utah, the Open Sky approach transcends traditional wilderness therapy by emphasizing treatment for the whole family. This approach integrates the latest in evidence-based clinical modalities with innovative, research-driven holistic healing practices such as yoga, meditation and other mindfulness practices. When a family partners with Open Sky, they embark on a rewarding adventure of self-discovery and learn valuable skills that promote lasting success. Learn more at www.openskywilderness.com.