Program Leadership
Candace Beardsley, MSSW, LICSW
Founder
Candace is a native Vermonter who earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychotherapy from Hampshire College in Amherst, Massachusetts, and a Master of Science and Social Work Degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. While in Madison, Candace received training at the Program for Assertive Community Treatment (PACT) which set her on a course for clinical mental health practice in community-based settings.
Prior to founding Spruce Mountain Inn in 1982, Candace held appointments at three community mental health centers, where she worked in day treatment, crisis intervention, outpatient, and residential programs. In 1990, she won the Vermont State Young Careerist Award given by Business and Professional Women for her accomplishments in her field.
More recently, she served on the Mental Health/ Substance Abuse Advisory Panel of the Vermont Health Care Authority and is a longstanding member of the Executive Board of the American Residential Treatment Association (ARTA). A licensed clinical social worker in the State of Vermont, Candace has overall responsibility for clinical and business operations at the Inn.
Candace loves spending time at the ocean, going camping, and has a passion for antique restoration.
Bogie Foden, LICSW
Assistant Director
Bogie joined Spruce Mountain Inn with several years of clinical experience, having worked predominantly with young adult clients and their families.
His career path began at the University of Colorado, Boulder, where he earned a psychology degree. He went on to travel throughout Central and South America, learning Spanish and gaining an appreciation for local culture before returning to New England to accept a position with True North Wilderness Program in Vermont.
Passionate about this work, Bogie went on to earn master’s degrees in Social Work and Outdoor Education at the University of New Hampshire. Bogie’s educational portfolio includes national research focusing on wilderness therapy and graduate work at a substance abuse treatment center in Haverhill, Massachusetts.
Bogie regularly presents at regional and national conferences. His presentations have focused on the importance of family inclusion in treatment, supporting young adults as they transition out of Wilderness, and supporting young adults in the individuation process through effective assessment and intervention. He approaches therapy from a relational, trauma-informed perspective and views residential treatment as a chance to re-center, connect, learn, and grow.
Bogie’s background and experience have provided him with the skills and insights needed in his role as Assistant Director at Spruce Mountain Inn.
Bogie and his wife, Kathleen (who teaches at a local school) enjoy the outdoors. Bogie loves being outside: running, biking, skiing, paddle boarding, golfing and camping are all favorite pursuits.
Karen O’Hara, LCMHC
Clinical Director
Karen O’Hara is a seasoned psychotherapist whose professional journey is marked by a profound commitment to mental health and well-being. Beginning her academic pursuits at Johns Hopkins' Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland, she laid a strong foundation for her career by earning her Master's Degree from Loyola University Maryland. Karen's foray into the world of psychotherapy was not just a job; it was a calling. Over several years, she dedicated herself to the Partial Hospital program and the Outpatient Department at Johns Hopkins, where she provided essential individual and family therapy services. Her early experiences in this esteemed institution equipped her with invaluable skills that would shape her therapeutic approach for years to come.
After gaining substantial experience at Johns Hopkins, Karen returned to her roots in Vermont, where her passion for helping youth flourished at Ch.O.I.C.E. Academy. There, she worked closely with adolescents, guiding them through their challenges and fostering resilience. In 2011, Karen joined the Spruce Mountain team, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and expertise that has significantly impacted the community. Her comprehensive skill set includes proficiency in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), alongside specialized trauma interventions like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and Cognitive-Processing Therapy (CPT). This diverse array of techniques allows her to tailor her therapeutic approaches to meet the unique needs of each client.
What sets Karen apart is not only her technical expertise but also her innate ability to connect with those she serves. She understands the intricacies of human emotions and the complexities of mental health, often fostering a safe and nurturing environment where clients feel empowered to share their experiences. Her methodologies are grounded in evidence-based practices yet are infused with empathy and compassion, making her an effective and approachable clinician. Karen’s dedication to continuous learning and professional growth further enhances her capacity to support individuals on their healing journeys.
Outside of her clinical work, Karen is equally passionate about community involvement, particularly in supporting girls’ youth softball. As a coach and coordinator for the local recreational league, she instills values of teamwork, perseverance, and self-confidence in young athletes. This commitment to nurturing talent and character in youth reflects Karen's holistic approach to wellbeing, extending her influence beyond the therapy room into the lives of young people in her community. Her role in youth sports illustrates her belief in the power of connection and development, both on and off the field.
In her personal life, Karen cherishes quality time spent with her husband and teenage daughter, balancing her professional aspirations with familial joy. Her ability to navigate the demands of her career while prioritizing her family highlights her strong values and dedication to a well-rounded life. As the clinical director at Spruce Mountain, Karen O'Hara embodies the ideal blend of professionalism, compassion, and community spirit, propelling both her team and clients toward a brighter future. Her unwavering dedication to mental health and active engagement in her community truly make her a treasured asset to the Spruce Mountain team.
Clinical Staff
Smita Lahoti, MD
Psychiatrist
Dr. Lahoti was born and raised in India. In 2003, she earned her first medical degree in Obstetrics & Gynecology from Pune University. Dr. Lahoti followed this by earning a medical degree in Psychiatric Medicine in 2009 from Mumbai. Dr. Lahoti moved to the United States and began a residency in the department of psychiatry at the University of Vermont. She completed her residency and became licensed in Vermont in 2021.
In addition to joining the team at Spruce Mountain Inn, Dr. Lahoti works at a fellow treatment program for adults here in Vermont. She also volunteers her time as director of psychiatry at Connecting Cultures, a program for refugees who have survived torture and other traumas. In addition, she maintains a private practice.
Dr. Lahoti is married and has two children. When she isn’t enjoying time with her children at musical and theatrical events, she and her husband enjoy travel.
Jim Hessler, MSW, LISCW
Clinician
Jim is an experienced Clinician and Case Manager at Spruce Mountain Inn LLC, where he has dedicated nearly a decade of his career to helping individuals navigate their emotional and mental health challenges. Specializing in evidence-based therapies including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Brainspotting, Jim brings a relational approach to his work, focusing on dual attunement to build strong therapeutic connections and foster healing.
With a deep belief that every person has the capacity to heal their pain and overcome emotional scars, Jim’s work centers on helping clients rediscover their personal growth and emotional resilience. His clinical approach emphasizes the importance of safety and trust in the therapeutic process, ensuring that clients feel understood, supported, and empowered on their path to healing.
Jim holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) and is licensed as an Independent Clinical Social Worker (LISCW). In addition to his clinical work, Jim’s unique background includes his previous career as a commercial fisherman in Alaska—a role that provided him with a strong foundation in perseverance, adaptability, and team dynamics. Jim is also a proud father of two children, one in college and the other preparing for the next chapter, and he enjoys woodworking and playing soccer in his spare time.
Eva Wadsager, MA Candidate
Clinical Intern
Eva joined Spruce Mountain Inn as a Residential Counselor, and through her dedication and commitment to the mental health field, she has successfully transitioned into her current role as a Clinical Intern. Her valuable experience as a Residential Counselor provides her with a unique perspective that enriches the clinical team’s approach to therapy and support. By understanding the intricacies of residential care, Eva can bridge the gap between day-to-day client interactions and the broader clinical practices, fostering an environment of empathy and understanding within the therapeutic setting.
Graduating Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, Eva concentrated her studies on mental health, which laid a strong theoretical foundation for her clinical practice. She is now pursuing a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Southern New Hampshire University, enhancing her expertise, and preparing her for a robust career in counseling. Eva's academic accomplishments reflect her dedication to understanding the complexities of human behavior and her desire to provide compassionate care to those in need.
Driven by a deep belief that everyone deserves to be heard and treated with empathy, Eva is particularly passionate about working with individuals who have experienced trauma and grief. She recognizes that these experiences can profoundly impact a person’s life and well-being, and she is determined to help clients navigate their healing journeys. Eva emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals to develop skills that will enable them to become as independent as possible, fostering resilience and self-efficacy in their everyday lives.
At the core of Eva's therapeutic philosophy is her grounding in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) combined with a commitment to unconditional positive regard and relational dynamics. She believes strongly in the capacity for growth and change at any stage of life. This philosophy allows her to cultivate a supportive atmosphere where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. By adopting a collaborative approach, Eva works alongside her clients to develop comprehensive treatment plans that are tailored to their unique goals and aspirations.
Outside of her professional obligations at Spruce Mountain Inn, Eva enjoys riding her motorcycle during Vermont's warm months, embracing the freedom and tranquility that comes with exploring the state’s breathtaking landscapes. This connection to nature not only revitalizes her spirit but also informs her practice, reinforcing the importance of holistic well-being in her clients’ lives. Through her passion and commitment, Eva continues to be a steadfast advocate for those she serves, embodying the values of compassion, resilience, and empowerment in every aspect of her work.
Pauline Morgan BA, AS, RN
Medication Coordinator
Pauline is a highly accomplished nursing professional who earned her degree from the esteemed University of Vermont. With over four decades of diverse experience in the nursing field, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Spruce Mountain Inn. Her career journey has spanned critical areas such as intensive care, family development, and overall health management, showcasing her adaptability and commitment to patient care. At Spruce, she thrives in the warm, family-oriented environment, where she can engage deeply with each individual client, providing personalized care that meets their unique needs.
Outside of her professional commitments, Pauline cherishes her time spent with her two children and their families. This balance between her rewarding nursing career and her personal life enriches her approach to caregiving, as she understands the importance of strong familial connections. Her dedication to both her profession and family illustrates her compassionate nature and her belief in the holistic approach to health and well-being. At Spruce Mountain Inn, Pauline continues to impact lives positively, creating meaningful relationships with clients and fostering a nurturing atmosphere.
Tom Novak, MBA
Career & Education Development Coordinator
Tom's extensive academic background and professional experience make him a knowledgeable leader in the field of career services. Holding both a Bachelor’s degree and an MBA from Temple University, Tom specialized in Human Resource Administration for his Master’s studies. His pursuit of knowledge continued with doctoral coursework in Vocational Education, equipping him with a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape and the nuances of guiding individuals toward their career aspirations. With over 20 years of post-graduate experience, he has honed his skills in academic advising and career development, significantly impacting students' lives.
As the Director of Career Services at Saint Joseph’s College in Standish, Maine, Tom has been instrumental in creating programs that empower students to explore their career options and engage with potential employers. His leadership fosters a supportive environment where students can develop the skills necessary to succeed in a competitive job market. Tom’s commitment to professional development is not only evident in his work with students but also in his continuous pursuit of knowledge and best practices in career services and academic advising.
Outside of his professional commitments, Tom values quality time with his family and indulges in his passion for reading, particularly memoirs and current news. He finds joy in the simple pleasures of life, often reflecting on the lessons learned from the stories of others. Through his diverse interests and experiences, he remains a dedicated educator and mentor, inspiring those around him to pursue their own paths to success.
Residential Counselors
Brad Beaudet, MA
Brad would like people to know that he had black hair when he started working at Spruce in 2001, and that it wasn’t the residents that made him prematurely grey. Brad holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Goddard College in Cultural Studies. He is our senior Residential Counselor who provides leadership and training to the entire residential staff, and is generally revered for being a font of institutional knowledge here. His humor and dedication are invaluable to our team. When not at work, Brad can be found strumming a guitar, crooning, and making music videos.
Talia Brooks, LNA
Talia is an overnight residential counselor here at Spruce, who has always had a passion for helping others. Her duties include providing a safe and calming environment for residents without judgment. Talia comes from an extensive background in mental health and traumatic brain injury care. She received her LNA license from CVMC in 2021 and has also trained as a Mental Health Technician. When not at work, Talia enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her family and her cats. She is also into all things spooky and loves a great horror novel!
Jeanne DeForge, BA
Jeanne’s greatest talent is seeing the glass “half full,” a perspective she brings to her current role as a Residential Counselor and Support Person at Spruce Mountain Inn. She comes to Spruce Mountain with more than a decade of experience as a higher education support staff member, working at colleges in the Central Vermont area. Jeanne also has experience in various aspects of senior care from her time as a Case Manager at CVHHH. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, Neurobiology, and Creative Writing from Goddard College in Plainfield, Vermont, where she also worked as support staff in the Registrar’s Office. In her free time, Jeanne enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and exploring nature.
Allen Farnham
Allen is a third shift residential counselor at Spruce. His duties include providing companionship, safety, and support to the residents during the wee hours of the night. Allen also maintains the nighttime operation of the program. Allen’s background includes years of experience in both state-run and private pay therapeutic support service programs. Allen is dedicated to delivering quality care to the residents of Spruce Mountain Inn. He continuously involves himself in professional development, and holds certificates in crisis intervention and CPR/First Aid. When not working, Allen loves fishing, hunting, and camping.
Julie Hook, BA
Julie Hook graduated from Emerson College with a BA in Film Production. Julie began a film career in Austin, Texas and California producing fiction and documentary films, developing a strong passion for telling stories about the natural world and human nature. Through many personal backpacking and traveling experiences, Julie found her way into working in Wilderness therapy, developing the skills and insight to further support the young folks at Spruce and further her career pursuits in Counseling. When Julie is not at Spruce, she can be found at the pottery studio, camping with family & friends, and hiking with her Sheagle and two Collies.
Audrey Isom, LNA
With extensive experience and a deep passion for caregiving, Audrey is dedicated to providing exceptional care. She has years of experience working as a Licensed Nursing Assistant in a hospital setting and as a hospice caregiver in a private setting. Since joining the team, she has led a variety of groups, such as the Movement Group.
Audrey loves to travel and has lived all over the country. She enjoys all things outdoors and has hiked the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Audrey enjoys hiking, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and caring for her many houseplants.
Kara Pilarcik, LNA
Kara has dedicated the last decade of her career to serving as a Licensed Nursing Assistant, specializing in the care of patients with Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Her extensive experience in this field has equipped her with invaluable insights into the complexities of mental health, which she is eager to expand further as she transitions into her new role as a residential counselor at Spruce Mountain Inn. Motivated by a desire to deepen her understanding of psychology, Kara is planning to pursue college courses that will enhance her professional expertise and ability to support those in need. Outside of her professional commitments, she cherishes quality time with her family and pets, finds solace in reading, and enjoys exploring the beauty of nature, which collectively enriches her life and well-being.
Lacie Smith, MSA, MBA, CPA
Lacie, an accomplished professional with an undergraduate degree from Boston College and an MBA from Northeastern University, has successfully bridged the gap between academic achievement and personal passion. Her transformative experiences hiking the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails ignited her dedication to wilderness therapy, where she discovered a profound commitment to helping young adults navigate their healing and growth journeys. With an aspiration to further her impact through a career in counseling, Lacie embodies the belief that nature can be a powerful catalyst for change. In her spare time, she finds joy in outdoor pursuits such as skiing and cherishes the companionship of her beloved puppy, reflecting her deep-seated appreciation for the natural world and the relationships that enrich her life.
Savanna Winston
Savanna is a Vermont native who joined the Spruce Mountain Inn team as a residential counselor. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in social work and hopes to obtain a master’s degree in social work to become a therapist. Savanna joined Spruce in March of 2024 with three years of experience working in special education. When not at Spruce, Savanna enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and her cat.
Support Staff
Jennifer Boujoulian
Housekeeper
Jennifer, a lifelong resident of Vermont, joins us at Spruce Mountain Inn after over a decade of dedicated service as the Housekeeping Team Lead at Goddard College. Her commitment to fostering a warm and welcoming environment aligns perfectly with our mission to provide exceptional hospitality. Outside of her professional endeavors, Jennifer cherishes quality time with her husband and family, often found indulging in captivating audiobooks, engaging in games, cooking delightful meals, and enjoying the comforts of home. Her passion for creating a cozy atmosphere extends beyond her work, making her an invaluable addition to our team.
Lise Couture
Accounts Payable/Payroll
Lise joined Spruce, coming from the Business Office of Goddard College where she was a Senior Staff Accountant and software liason. She holds an Associate Degree in Computer Programming and Accounting from Champlain College and a Bachelors in Math and Secondary Education from Johnson State College. Lise owned a dairy equipment company for many years, worked as a Field Director for the Girl Scouts and has also been a high school teacher. She enjoys doing programming and tweaking software.
In her spare time, Lise keeps busy volunteering, tutoring and training and camping with her husband where they can ride their ATV.
Ian Covey
Administrative Assistant
Ian is our Administrative Assistant. His desk is front and center in the office, and during the week, he will most likely be the cheerful voice you hear on the phone. Ian has many years of experience maintaining database information and working in the customer service field. He lives in Marshfield and enjoys playing hockey, hiking, and camping with his family.
Brian Larrabee
Operations Assistant
Brian Larrabee is a native Vermonter from a family of longtime residents of Plainfield. Brian has 21 years of experience in grounds and building maintenance. His impressively broad skill set includes plumbing, heating, electrical, and farm-work.
He started his active career with his uncle, who he helped demolish buildings as a young teen. He worked for bridges resort in the mad River Valley, for a property management and development firm ABG corporation, and was a lead maintenance specialist at Goddard college, where he worked for nine years.
Brian and his wife Deborah live in Plainfield and have two sons who attend the local school. Brian likes being in the outdoors camping, walking in nature and spending time near the river with his family. Brian also likes to collect and work on antique tractors. This is a hobby he shared with his stepfather.
Ryan Zacher
Chef
Our in-house chef, Ryan, hails from rural Minnesota and came to Spruce after more than a decade as a chef in some of Vermont’s finest food scene hot spots including Salt in Montpelier and the famed Positive Pie. Ryan is passionate about creating simple, healthy, beautiful comfort food for our community, and enjoys sharing his love of cooking with the residents in our weekly Cooking Group.
In his non-Spruce life, Ryan can be found romping the local area with his wife, daughter and their dogs.
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in operation
2:1
Staff to resident ratio
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Average tenure of staff
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States with residents served
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Call us at 802-454-8353 today.
Testimonials
Thank you for supporting me in my journey and all the difficulties I have had. You all have taught me a lot, especially self-care maintenance and self-expression. You helped me learn to respect myself and feel that I am worthy.
It’s hard to believe that in less than 9 months our son went from a depressed, anxious and helpless person to a confident, social and relaxed one. The transformation from when he came to Spruce until now is truly remarkable. I don’t know how you did it.
There is no way we can possibly thank you enough for everything you did for my son while he was at Spruce Mountain. During what was the most traumatic period of our family’s life, we felt so fortunate that there was a place that could offer help for our son. Thank you all so much for helping our family get through a very dark time. We couldn’t have done it without all of you being there for us.
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Why Residential Treatment
Residential treatment programs have the potential to be much more effective than treatment received in someone's typical living environment. Our program is designed to be immersive and community-based.
The benefits of residential treatment include:
24-hour access to a seasoned team of caring, professional staff.
Full immersion in a supportive community with other young people working to overcome similar challenges.
The opportunity to experience a fresh environment, break habits, and escape triggers experienced in a typical living situation.
The opportunity to work, build life-skills, and contribute creatively in a controlled, supportive setting.
Moderating the use of technology and social media, the overuse of which may fuel anxiety and depression.
Family therapy (for parents and other affected family members) to help improve communication, foster cooperation, and facilitate healthy respect among family members.
Learn more about our approach to residential treatment.
