Brittney Israelsen
Family Educator
Hello! My name is Brittney Israelsen. I am a Family Educator here at The Family Place.
My husband, Jake, and I wrangle a crew of 5 kids along with a random assortment of farm animals that bring both chaos and joy!
Led by my degree in Human Development and Family Studies, I love working with families and children, especially through the awesome parenting classes we offer. Parenting is no easy undertaking, and unfortunately children don’t come with an owner’s manual! There is no way to take the stress out of raising children, but there absolutely are strategies and techniques that can significantly strengthen and improve the family unit. I love being able to interact with various families and individuals in striving to build the families in our community.
Maritza Griffiths
Family Educator
My name is Maritza Griffiths, I am originally from Peru and have lived in Cache Valley for 25 years. Very happy and blessed mother of 2 and stepmom of 5! I am also a grandma of 5 boys and step grandma of 9 wonderful kids!
I worked as an education specialist in Head Start for 4 years and worked at USU for 4 years in the education department for two programs, Disabilities and Head Start. My hobbies are baking custom cakes and I love working with my Cricut machines!
I’ve worked at the family place for 6 years and love it because I follow my passion to help people and have the opportunity to work with the Hispanic community.
Certifications:
BSN registered nurse specialize in surgery working for 20 years
Certified nurse in rehab in drugs and alcohol working for 9 years
Certified in the Montessori program here in USA
Certified Citi (USU)
Certified CPR
Certified mental aid
Certified basic mind-body bridging practices
Certified American marriage minister
Certified infant massage in Spanish
Certified on standards of quality for family strengthening and support
Clarissa Perry
Family Educator
Hi everyone! I’m Clarissa Perry. I’ve lived in Cache Valley, Utah, for nearly 10 years now, but I grew up in Payson. I met my perfect match, and we’ve been married since 2005. Life’s been full of ups, downs, unexpected turns, and so many blessings—especially our three amazing kids. We also have a full house with five cats, two dogs, and twelve chickens!
When I’m not being a mom (my favorite role), I’m probably reading or listening to a book—I’m rarely without one! I also love food, movie nights with my family, hot tubs, organizing, planning, and learning new things.
I have a Bachelor of Science in Marriage and Family Studies with an emphasis in Family Education, and I became a Certified Family Life Educator in March 2025.
I chose to work at The Family Place because I love teaching—especially parents. It’s incredibly rewarding to help them understand their parenting style, learn about emotional regulation (for themselves and their kids!), and start seeing things from new perspectives. Watching those lightbulb moments happen is the best. Honestly, breaking cycles of abuse and strengthening families is serious work—but we still find room to laugh, share, and support each other along the way. It’s messy, meaningful, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Lizzy Greene
Mental Health First Aid Director
I’ve lived in Cache Valley most of my life and continue to call Franklin County, Idaho, home.
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my family. We love being outdoors in the summer—kayaking, camping, and fishing are some of our favorite activities. During the colder months, you’ll often find me crafting or binge-watching movies.
I hold a dual bachelor’s degree in General Education and Special Education, as well as a master’s degree in Curriculum Design and Instructional Practices. I am licensed to teach in Idaho, with endorsements in General Education (K–8) and Special Education (K–12).
My “why” continues to evolve as I grow in my role, but my passion for mental health education has deep roots. Having grown up in a home impacted by mental health challenges, I understand the profound effect it can have on individuals and families. By teaching others how to engage in empathetic, safe conversations around mental health and substance use, I hope to make a meaningful difference in our community.
Samantha Coontz
Family Educator
Hi, I’m Samantha Coontz! I love being part of The Family Place team because it allows me to support families in becoming the best versions of themselves through fun, meaningful, and hands-on learning experiences. This work not only helps others grow—it helps me grow too, both personally and professionally. Plus, I’m lucky enough to be surrounded by incredible co-workers who’ve become true friends.
When I’m not at The Family Place, you’ll find me at home or volunteering in our community in beautiful Bear Lake with my husband, teenage daughter, our two dogs, and a charming cat, Master Elliott Duncan Butterbeans. I’m happiest at the beach, by the river, or anywhere the sun’s shining. Any day is a good day when I’m shenanigating with my best buddy Rich on another Family Place adventure!
Jennifer Daly
Family Education Director
I’m Jennifer Daly, and I have had the privilege of working at The Family Place Utah for the past 21 years. Currently, I serve as the Family Education Director, where I lead a team dedicated to strengthening families, protecting children, and offering educational opportunities that are both accessible and empowering. I believe deeply in the importance of tradition, community, and supporting families through every stage of life.
I graduated from Utah State University in 2003 with a Bachelor of Science in Family, Consumer, and Human Development, with an emphasis in Family and Community Services. I also earned a certificate in Women in Leadership from Cornell and am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Educational Technology and Instructional Design. I am passionate about learning and strive to use my education and experience to create programs that truly make a difference.
On a personal note, I met my husband in 2015, and we were married in 2017. I’m a proud stepmom to two amazing young women and “Mimi” to the most adorable grandson. Family is at the heart of everything I do—both at home and in my work—and I consider it a true blessing to be part of an organization that values and uplifts families every day.