Craig A. Christiansen, M.A
Founder & Executive Director
Craig has been developing programs for children, adolescents and families for over 35 years. He received his B.A. and M.A. degrees from California State University in Chico, California before entering the youth and family services field. He has developed numerous programs and schools for special populations, and has extensive experience in legislative advocacy for children at the local, regional and national levels. Craig and his wife Christy founded New Leaf Academy, the first therapeutic boarding school for younger girls in the country, in 1997 in response to inquiries of parents seeking help for their children prior to the onset of older adolescent emotional and behavioral issues.
“At New Leaf Academy we are able to reduce the pressure on young girls by creating a safe, home-like environment, while at the same time raising the bar for both therapeutic and academic expectations. Our girls develop the skills needed to navigate the complex world of peer and family relationships as they grow into happy and confident young women.”
Patricia J. "PJ" Swan, M.Ed., LPC, CADCII
Clinical Director
PJ received her B.A. in Education from Portland State University and holds a Masters of Education in Counseling and Human Development from the University of Idaho. She has been working in school, residential and wilderness programs for over 20 years, sharing her passion for youth and family development by providing individual, group and family therapy. PJ has extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), anxiety, depression, and addiction issues in families. She believes strongly in providing support and encouragement for all family members working toward successful family reunification. PJ has been actively involved in program development to facilitate family healing. Other specialties include working with young girls, social skill development and family support.
“The girls never cease to amaze me. Despite challenges and difficulties they find strengths, grow emotionally, play (as girls should) and develop meaningful relationships. Watching them blossom in our care is truly a gift to witness and encourage.”
Deveney Marshall B.A.
Program Director
Deveney attended the University of Oregon where she earned her B.A. in Journalism and International Studies. Her introduction to working with at risk youth was at a wilderness program where she worked as a Field Instructor for two years. After relocating to Bend she became a counselor at New Leaf Academy. She then quickly worked her way up to the Program Director due to her skill in managing staff, students and logistics. Deveney brings leadership, enthusiasm and integrity to our staff and students.”
“When girls feel comfortable enough with themselves to be whom they are and share what is in their hearts the smile on their faces and the light in their eyes is unexplainable. New Leaf helps bring this out in young girls and I am honored daily to be a part of it.”
Elaine Smith, M.A.
Academic Director
Elaine has been an educator for over 30 years in a variety of academic and alternative learning settings. She holds her B.A. degree in Special and Elementary Education from the University of Northern Colorado, and her Master's degree in Behavioral Disorders and Learning Disabilities from Kent State University in Ohio. Prior to becoming a part of the New Leaf Academy team, Elaine was a cofounder of the highly-regarded Highland at Kenwood magnet school in Bend, OR, which focuses on integrated education, and serves as an educational consultant and trainer for professional educators throughout the region.
“It's exciting to see our girls discover their individual talents and strengths, learn to be more compassionate and cooperative, and become self-directed, confident learners.”
Cathryn Perkins, M.A.
Therapist
Cathryn Perkins received her master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from the State University of New York in Albany. Cathryn has worked at New Leaf Academy for two years helping our girls and their families. She has worked with middle and high school children in other residential programs prior to joining the New Leaf team. Cathryn has experience addressing many mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and attachment disorders.
"Watching once struggling girls find their strengths, build self esteem, and accept who they are is one of the best rewards I experience as a therapist supporting these amazing students to find peace in their lives."
