Serena Vogel earned her Master of Arts degree in Counseling and Human Services from The University of Colorado, Colorado Springs in 1996.  In 2018, she retired from her position as middle school counselor in the Manitou Springs School District after 29 years of teaching and counseling. She received her training in restorative practices and conferencing in 2005 and regularly used her skills with students in her school and in the Harrison School District after her retirement. Serena is also trained in Non-violent Communication and nature-based mindfulness meditation practices.

Serena is the owner of Restoring Connections Forest Therapy, LLC. Forest therapy, also known as forest bathing, is a health and wellness practice held in a forest or other natural setting with the intention of offering sensory immersive experiences providing time for slowing down to allow the mind and body time to experience restoration and respite from living in our fast-paced environment. She continues to occasionally offer her services for Restorative Practices when requested.