Melanie has dedicated much of her life to serving as a spiritual companion to those experiencing crisis, bereavement, and spiritual distress. Melanie grew up in a traditional Christian environment, and while she celebrates the wisdom of these teachings, her own spirituality has continued to expand and grow to appreciate many spiritual paths. After her own “dark night of the soul,” Melanie learned to accept challenge and questions as teachers, and since that time has accompanied many others through times of questioning, deconstruction of beliefs that no longer fit, and reconstructing a thriving spiritual life and theological belief system. Melanie has made her home in the mountains of Northwest North Carolina for more than 25 years, where she serves as a board certified hospital chaplain, licensed clinical mental health counselor, and is ordained by the United Church of Christ. She loves wilderness hiking, cross-country skiing, and gardening with her partner Cath Hopkins.