Christina G. Yoshimura is a Professor of Communication Studies at the University of Montana (M.A., Ph.D.) and a clinical mental health counselor (M.A., LCPC). Christina has spent the last 20 years researching and teaching on the topic of family communication, particularly the ways in which family members’ communication is influenced by the world around them. In addition to her work as a professor Christina has spent the last 6 years working as a professional counselor. Christina’s training and experience allow her to translate academic findings on family communication patterns into applicable skills and strategies that individuals can use to manage their personal relationships.

Geoff Gilbert is the founder of Inukshuk Investments, LLC where he manages investment portfolios and provides financial planning and advising for clients. He started his first company when he was eleven and has always had a passion for economics, business, and investing. Professionally, Geoff first enjoyed a successful career as a geologist, working in such places as Alaska, South America, Antarctica, and Australia. He transitioned to the world of finance in 2006 as a commodities analyst and started Inukshuk Investments in 2013. Geoff holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation from the CFA Institute. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Missoula Aging Services and Clearwater Credit Union

David A. Lord is an attorney and mediator at Lord Law Office, P.C. in Missoula, MT. David supports and advises clients through complex and emotional family dynamics and transitions. Stress and grief can make it difficult to be one’s best self and that’s when David’s experience and compassion will help. While focusing on developing and achieving your goals, David wants to put you in a position to reflect on the grace and dignity you maintained in the process. When he’s not trying to find old and new ways to make peace at work, he can often be found at home practicing his negotiating skills with his two daughters.

Layla is an experienced family law attorney and mediator specializing in collaborative law. Layla's desire to improve client outcomes inspired her to seek a healthier approach to helping families facing divorce and difficult parenting transitions. Layla received her Collaborative Law certification from the International Association of Collaborative Professionals in 2017, and has since completed advanced training to further hone her expertise in this innovative field. Layla believes the best outcomes are achieved through excellent communication. Through the collaborative process, Layla empowers clients to effectively communicate to reach resolutions individually tailored to their families.

Diana E. Garrett is an experienced Attorney who specializes in family law. She has over 17 years of legal experience working primarily in Western Montana focusing her practice on dissolutions, parenting plans, child support, orders of protection and other legal issues that impact families. In her practice Diana has learned the importance of alternatives to the court process for families in crisis. She has acted as a Mediator and Settlement Master and is trained in the Collaborative Law Process as well as litigated cases in Court. Diana recognizes the need for parties to be able to help craft a final resolution that works best for them and their children. In addition, Diana has consulted with and trained government agencies, clinical law students, nonprofits, as well as the courts and pro-bono attorneys on aspects of family law as well as trauma informed lawyering.

Meri is a Missoula native, outdoor enthusiast, and mom to two girls in middle school and pre-school. She and her husband Andy are avidly involved in many Missoula activities and events. Meri graduated with honors from the University of Montana School of Law in 2011 where she attended with the goal of practicing child-centered legal work. After years of working in the social service realm she decided that working in the legal field on behalf of protecting and advocating for children at risk was the career path she needed to follow. All of Meri's services are centered around resolution for the sake of keeping life calm and preserved for the children involved. Meri has practiced as attorney, litigator, and mediator in the field of family law, child protection, estate planning, and elder care for the past 8 years and is a certified Collaborative Professional.