How does a Fisheries and Wildlife Scientist become a Marriage and Family Therapist focused on trauma? By being curious, bold, and deeply committed to making a difference.
I started as a natural scientist, observing and dissecting the wonders of nature—until I realized breaking it apart took away its magic. While working at the Maryland Zoo, I was nicknamed “Black Hannah” (a playful nod to Jack Hanna) as I taught conservation with live animals. But I noticed kids who looked like me were often scared of the animals, reflecting deeper fears rooted in their lives. Inspired to act, decided to pursue teaching. Being a teacher at a tough Baltimore City school showed me the strength and struggles of communities impacted by trauma.
Yet, I wanted to do more than teach—I wanted to heal. So, I took a leap, moved to Hawaii, and earned my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. My practicum focused on supporting survivors of domestic violence and addressing generational trauma. I went on to lead a trauma program, train communities, and work directly with resilient youth and native and indigenous families on O’ahu.
Motherhood brought me back to the East Coast for four years, where I taught psychology and supported children in crisis in a school setting. In 2017, I returned to Hawai‘i, leading nonprofits and working with indigenous communities before founding my private practice. In 2024, I moved back to Virginia to expand my practice and launch The Journey Healing Center & Nature School, bringing my passions full circle and uniting all parts of myself.
It’s been a wild, winding path, but as Maya Angelou said, “I wouldn’t take nothing for my journey now.”
– Ellen S. Wright
Ellen S. Wright, LMFT 