

I believe that every child has unique strengths and the ability to grow when provided with the right support, understanding, and tools. For more than 27 years, I have worked as a school social worker, helping children, adolescents, and families navigate emotional, behavioral, academic, and social challenges. My extensive experience within the school setting has given me a deep understanding of how a child's mental health, learning environment, family relationships, and daily experiences all work together to influence their overall well-being.
I enjoy working with children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, ADHD, behavioral concerns, emotional regulation, depression, and school-related challenges. I am particularly passionate about helping young people better understand their emotions, develop effective coping skills, and build confidence in their ability to manage life's difficulties.
Because of my background in education, I am also highly familiar with school systems, special education processes, and the challenges families often face when advocating for their children. I believe therapy is most effective when we work collaboratively to understand the whole child and support their growth across home, school, and community environments.
Anxiety
ADHD
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
Depression
Separation Anxiety
Behavioral Challenges
Emotional Regulation
Trauma and Trauma Recovery
Autism Spectrum Support
School-Related Concerns and Academic Stress
Mindfulness and Coping Skills
Parent Support and Consultation
My approach is strengths-based, trauma-informed, and focused on helping children and families better understand how emotions, thoughts, and behaviors are connected. I enjoy teaching practical skills that clients can use in their everyday lives while helping them build self-awareness, confidence, and resilience.
Therapeutic approaches I may incorporate include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Trauma-Informed Interventions
Self-Regulation Strategies
Mindfulness-Based Techniques
Play-Based Interventions
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Concepts
Brain-Based Education and Skill Building
I strongly believe that parents and caregivers are essential partners in the therapeutic process. Parents are the experts on their child and often provide valuable insight into their child's strengths, challenges, history, and daily experiences.
Family involvement varies based on the age and needs of the client, but I view collaboration, ongoing communication, and parent support as important components of successful treatment. I enjoy working alongside caregivers to develop practical strategies that can be implemented both at home and in other environments where the child spends time.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Educational Administrative Certificate (30 Graduate-Level Credit Hours)
Handle With Care Trainer
Behavior Management
Crisis De-escalation
Physical Restraint Training
I also enjoy helping clients understand how different parts of the brain - including the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus - impact emotions, decision-making, and behavior, especially during times of stress or dysregulation.
Outside of my professional role, I enjoy spending time outdoors, traveling with family and friends, and finding opportunities to connect with nature. Throughout my career, I have remained passionate about helping children and families overcome obstacles and discover their strengths.
My style is warm, supportive, and practical. I strive to create an environment where children feel safe, parents feel heard, and families feel empowered with tools that promote lasting growth and success.