Hi, I'm Jess.
The founder of Moonstate, I was born in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia but raised throughout the Maritimes. I stem from a long line of pagan women which fostered my deep connection to nature, and later, my career path.
I’m an ecologist, wildlife biologist, artist, adventure guide, Indigenous ally, cycle breaker and mental health advocate.
I'm a Virgo. I curse like a sailor. I enjoy outdoor adventuring as much as I do my naps. I collect bones and indulge in the Devil’s lettuce.
Over 35 years of Mental Health Experience.
Due to multi-generational and inherited family trauma I've been bestowed the 'joy' of managing Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) and perimenopause symptoms (Fun fact: experiencing complex trauma can toss you into early perimenopause).
Which includes (clears throat**):
- Severe Depression and Suicidal Ideation;
- ADHD/AuDHD and BPD (undiagnosed until my 30s);
- Autoimmune disorder (e.g. fibromyalgia, chronic pain, nerve spasms, poor temperature regulation, lethargy, brain fog, syncope, anxiety and IBS (intolerance to FODMAPS, Gluten, Dairy and Sugar);
- Chronic night terrors and night sweats;
- Migraines;
- Constant flashbacks;
- Dissociation and executive dysfunction
I have experience with homelessness, physical and emotional abuse, sexual abuse and assault, alcoholism, drug addiction and gang violence. I've lived in a shelter and I've stolen food... and...
15 years in Environmental Management & Indigenous Relations.
... I've worked multiple jobs while completing my Bachelor of Science and Master's degrees, all while learning about, and later learning to manage what's mentioned above.
For over 15 years I've worked with Indigenous communities, Environmental Organizations, Academia, Municipal, Provincial and Federal Governments, and Private Industries. I've wrangled snapping turtles and tented in remote wilderness for weeks at a time. I've advanced oil spill response, protected areas and stewardship, and meaningful Reconciliation with Indigenous communities throughout Mi'kma'ki.
Now, I'm switching gears, focusing on bringing the interconnections between mental health, building community resiliency, and environmental management to the mainstream.
How can we advance a truly sustainable and healthy ecosystem when as a society we struggle to sustainably manage ourselves?