Our Team
Natalie Small
Founder & Clinical Supervisor
Shannon Boselli
Executive Director
Rumi
Groundswell Office Support
Board of Directors
Jenn Beening, Board President
Jenn, a lifelong nature enthusiast and wildlife advocate, currently works in Marketing for a climate tech venture firm, focused on investing in solutions to address the planet’s climate crisis. She previously worked at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, where she managed social media programs, crafting impactful narratives to inspire global conservation efforts. Jenn holds a B.A. in Sociology and English from the University of Illinois at Chicago and an M.A. in Biology with a focus on Environmental Stewardship and Community-Based Conservation from Miami University of Ohio. She also serves on the board of Wildlife Madagascar, a non-profit dedicated to protecting wildlife, habitats, and communities. Jenn began her journey with Groundswell as a participant in the surf therapy program in 2023.
Chelsea Almario, Board Treasurer
Chelsea Almario is a dedicated entrepreneur who runs and owns a thriving real estate business. Ranked in the top 3% of realtors in San Diego and the top 4% of Coldwell Banker worldwide, she is passionate about building strong communities through both her professional work and philanthropic efforts.
Her journey with Groundswell began in 2017 as a volunteer, later stepping into the role of surf safety facilitator before joining the board. Having firsthand experienced the transformative power of the ocean, Chelsea knows the importance of accessible healing spaces and is committed to ensuring others have the opportunity to connect with themselves, their community, and the sea.
Whitney Taylor, Board Secretary
With a background in sustainable development, international relations, and trauma-informed care, Whitney has spent over a decade working with nonprofits focused on community healing and social impact. She earned her MBA in Social Impact from Eastern University and has supported organizations like SheJumps, blending her love for the outdoors with meaningful community work.
In 2022, Whitney began pursuing a career in clinical psychology and discovered surf therapy through an internship with Groundswell—a transformative experience that deepened her commitment to connecting mental health and nature. Now, as a marriage and family therapist in training, she is honored to support Groundswell’s mission and help expand access to nature-based healing.
Lexií Galbreath, Vice Chair
Lexií is an artist, Blue Health researcher, certified breathworker, surfer, and a clinical counseling student working toward licensure. She is the founder and lead instructor of Selkie Soul Work in Newport, Oregon—but Groundswell is where her heart calls home.
A cold-water enthusiast with a love for the Pura Vida lifestyle, Lexií travels the globe to support the Groundswell community and conduct research on the healing power of Blue Spaces. With lived experience as both a participant and practitioner, she integrates water-based practices, breathwork, and play to support others on their healing journey.
Honoring Groundswell’s Lineage
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Troy Marcikic (2016)
Tamzin Hector (2016)
Rachelle LaBelle (2016)
Teri Heidman (2018)
Katie Floyd (2018)
Dana Nielsen (2019)
Rachel Maruico (2020)
Elsa River (2021)
Luz Alejos (2020)
Marina Varano (2018)
Bri Redfield (2021-23)
Mariam Morris
David Postolski
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Jenn Lacey
Madison Elick
Natalie Tasca
Danny Garza
Evelyn Ramos Lopez
Lauren King
Lauren Carter
Katie Schaible
Sierra Brasher Nichols
Whitney Dickey
Kay Saffe
Becka Schwartz
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Natalie Small: Founder, Executive Director
Madison Elick: Office Manager
Lara Burros: Programs Manager
Leah Austin: LA/OC Programs Manager
Kelsey Ellis: Bay Area Programs Manager
Jules Jackson: Operations Manager
Mo Mata: Office Manager, Executive Assistant, & Surf Therapy Facilitator
Nathalia Castillo: Executive Assistant and Operations Consultant
Meg Martin: Community Outreach Partner Manager & Surf Therapy Facilitator
Lauren King: Nonprofit Professional Volunteer
Emily Ruth: Surf Therapy Facilitator
Sarah Fisher: Surf Therapy Facilitator
Holly Beck: Surf Therapy Facilitator
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Viv Kaizer
Carla Borella
Suzanne Samadzade
Luz Arias
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Shakti Rising
First Aid Arts
Generate Hope
Exxpedition
