About Us | Cedarbrae Inc.

Cedarbrae Inc. was born from a simple, profound realization: that the most powerful healing often happens in the quiet spaces between humans, animals, and the earth. Founded by a state-licensed counselor, our organization bridges the gap between traditional clinical support and the restorative power of the natural world.

Our name, Cedarbrae, honors both our founder’s heritage and the ancestral roots of the Clydesdale horse. It pairs the enduring strength of the cedar tree with the Scottish word brae, meaning "hillside." This landscape reflects our founder’s own journey - finding strength and perspective within the barn amidst the demands of a high-level career. What began as a personal sanctuary has evolved into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, dedicated to helping others find the same resilience and clarity cultivated alongside equines.

Meet Our Staff

President/CEO

& Lead Facilitator

Nicki Strome

Nicki started her journey with her sights set on being a doctor; through the winding road of pre-med, however, she decided instead to pursue counseling. By the end of the road, she had obtained a BS in Biology, BS in Psychology, MS in Applied Psychology, MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, LPC in the State of Ohio, and NCC national counseling certification. She practiced in counseling for almost four years before realizing the industry was still not what she was looking for. At that time, she took some time off to stay home with her two young daughters and plot her next move. Several years later, in 2023, she started The Cedarbrae Center LLC as a small life coaching business she ran by herself, seeing a handful of clients at her parents' barn. Through the process, the dream continued to grow into what is now Cedarbrae Inc.

Additionally, Nicki has been working with horses in all sizes and disciplines for over 30 years. Her grandparents raised and trained riding horses for many years, and purchased their first team of Clydesdales the year before she was born; then, her grandfather bought her her first pony when she was in third grade. Horses have always been a source of passion and peace for Nicki, that she now gets to share with others.

Treasurer/CFO

Nathan Strome

Nathan has a broad background rooted in both wellness and finance. He started his college pathway acquiring both Bachelor's and Master’s degrees in Exercise Physiology, and went on to obtain a Master's degree in Healthcare Administration as well. He has worked as a personal and group fitness trainer, in employee health and wellness for Fortune 500 companies, in the clinical setting at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, and in an administrative role in patient financial services for a local healthcare system. He also owns and operates his own baseball training business and travel baseball organization. Much of his experience and passion is in leadership roles where he can mentor others to achieve their goals.

Nathan has always been drawn to rural life, having spent time on his family's farm and hunting preserve while he was growing up; it wasn't until he met Nicki that he was introduced to the horse side of things. He can usually be found providing a supporting role with the horses, often quite literally doing the heavy lifting, as well as financial management and logistical support. Nathan has always felt peace in country living, and strives to create a simple, peaceful setting for both his family and Cedarbrae clients.

Secretary

& Assistant Facilitator

Sheri Mitchell

After completing high school, Sheri obtained her Associate's degree and spent ten years working as an addictions counselor. She later went on to earn her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Education. She has dedicated over 30 years to providing services to students with special needs and their families as both a teacher and the Special Education Director for Shelby City Schools.

As a child, Sheri's family raised horses of various breeds. It was not until her parents purchased a team of Clydesdales that she truly found the horses she loves. Eventually this led to her owning her own horses, including Clydesdales. Owning and showing these beautiful horses became a family affair which continues to bring her pride, joy, and a sense of serenity. While helping Nicki realize her dream, she became involved in her practice; and has seen first-hand the true value of her work and vision of providing respite plus much more for those seeking guidance, solace, and self-discovery. Like Nicki, the barn is Sheri's place of peace, quiet self-reflection, prayer, and personal growth, and she finds it an honor to be part of providing that space for others.