A woman sitting on a wooden bench in a lush green forest, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, glasses, a light jacket, a graphic t-shirt, denim shorts, and blue sandals. She is holding a smartphone and has a colorful backpack.
A group of martial artists sitting on their knees and clapping, with one person holding a sword, in a dojo with flags of the United States and Japan hanging on the wall.

As a licensed mental health counselor since 2005 with a PhD in somatic depth psychology, Jeannette brings expertise in the mind-body connection, neuroscience, and trauma therapy to her teaching. Her neurodivergent perspective and therapeutic background help her adapt to different learning styles, making her particularly effective with students who process information in varied ways. A trumpet player since age 12 and visual artist with connections to her Guatemalan heritage through traditional Maya weaving, she infuses her instruction with creativity and cultural richness. As a mother of two who enjoys hiking with her border collies, she creates a safe, inclusive environment where students can explore both martial arts skills and personal development—understanding how Aikido supports physical capability, emotional resilience, and overall well-being.

Two people sit beside a lit stone fireplace in a cozy room, smiling at the camera. One is wearing glasses and a red flannel shirt, and the other has gray hair and wears a dark jacket. The room has wooden walls and various decorative items.