About Us

Executive Director Karen M. House, MA

Karen is a fourth generation native, raised in the heart of northern New Mexico. After graduating from the College of Santa Fe with a Bachelor’s in Education, Karen began working in the Santa Fe Public Schools as an elementary teacher. During that time, she created, developed and directed the Agua Fria Wellness Program (AFWP), an experiential education program for students. Inspired by the success of AFWP, Karen investigated further education in the field of Adventure-based Counseling. While attending Prescott College’s Master of Arts program, Karen gained educational experience in the field. She continues to expand her knowledge base while working with special populations across the state from at-risk youth to crime victims to people living with HIV.

Karen and her mother on the San Juan River, Utah

Since her entry into the field of wilderness therapy, Karen had dedicated herself to experiential HIV/AIDS education, prevention and support programming. She is a certified Red Cross HIV trainer, and maintains a professional level of education in the field of HIV issues and treatments. Karen’s passion is white water rafting; a love that began in 1995 on a river in Costa Rica. She is now a commercial raft guide on class 4/5 whitewater specializing in multi-day therapeutic trips. Karen has a special gift for bringing the message of the river to participants in a unique and meaningful manner.