For as long as she can remember, Doreen has been deeply drawn to supporting others through life’s most profound transitions. Her journey began with a personal experience that revealed both the beauty and challenges of end-of-life care. That moment sparked a passion in her to walk alongside others during this sacred time.

Doreen’s interest in end-of-life care was awakened when one of her closest friends was diagnosed with terminal cancer. It opened her eyes to how often we avoid conversations about death, even when it’s directly in front of us. The lack of acknowledgment and fear of confronting death set her on a new path.

She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Ft. Lewis College in Durango, Colorado, and received her End-of-Life Coaching Certificate from the Conscious Dying Institute in Boulder, Colorado, where she also completed her Death Doula training. She has volunteered with hospice and has spent meaningful time with numerous clients, most of whom have been in memory care.

Through years of hands-on experience and formal training, Doreen has cultivated a compassionate approach that combines practical support with deep empathy. She is committed to honoring each individual’s unique journey by creating a space where they feel seen, heard, and supported. Her background equips her to provide not only logistical and physical care but also emotional and spiritual guidance to individuals and their loved ones.

Doreen believes that the most authentic way to live is to talk about death. By exploring how we want our death to be, we can more fully embrace how we want to live. Through bravely engaging in these difficult conversations, we can live our lives more authentically.

With this retreat, Doreen hopes to share the wisdom and tools she has gathered to help others approach end-of-life care with courage and compassion. Whether attendees are caregivers, professionals in the field, or individuals preparing to support a loved one, this retreat is designed to nurture and empower. Together, participants will explore ways to bring peace, presence, and connection to one of life’s most meaningful chapters.

When she is not guiding others through this work, Doreen finds solace in hiking, skiing, and reading—practices that remind her of the preciousness of life and the importance of being present in each moment. She looks forward to meeting others on this journey and holding space for their stories.