My Why

Ever since I was a young girl, I’ve always been curious about WHY we are the way we are, how we think, and what motivates behavior. When I had children, my curiosity went to exponential heights. Each of my children was so different, and I quickly learned that “one size fits all” parenting wasn’t going to cut it. After learning that two of my kids were on the autism spectrum, as well as some other challenges, I became acutely aware that each person, even if they share the same situation or diagnosis, is uniquely different, has unique needs, and deserves the right to walk their own path. This is not just true of individuals with special needs. It’s true for all of us! We ALL have special needs. However, some needs are quite unique and come with both gifts and challenges.

Being a parent and/or caregiver of individuals with unique and special needs is a long, ever-changing journey. Some of us are born with mental health and developmental challenges, some with a chronic health condition; some of us have suffered trauma, and some have life circumstances that changed our mental health and ability to function in a healthy way. My hope is to come alongside you, wherever you are, as you journey towards wellness and wholeness. Whether I’m seeing individuals, couples, or families, I simply desire to align my heart, training, personal experience, and gifts with your needs. Whether you are the neurodiverse individual trying to navigate a society that doesn’t quite get you, have a special need of any kind in this season (anxiety, depression, stress, relational conflict, grief, etc.), are a caregiver nearing or at burn-out, or just want to maintain balance and stability in your life, I’d like to help! Armed with empathy, compassion, and a deep and relentless curiosity, I would LOVE to hear your story!

My Professional Journey

I’ve worked personally and professionally with, and as an advocate for, special needs families and individuals with behavioral health challenges for over 20 years, supporting families to gain access to resources, therapies, and services in the home, educational, and community environments, as well as navigate confusing healthcare systems. I was honored to serve these families as a provider trainer, community coordinator, and parent partner-case manager. I have an extraordinary passion for helping caregivers and parents of individuals with special needs, behavioral health challenges, and chronic illness and/or families that received a new, life-altering medical or behavioral health diagnosis navigate their “new normal.” Having personal experiences with each of these, I desire to bring my experience, training and heart to support caregivers/families to achieve health and wellness while maintaining a connection with themselves and each other.

Credentials: Bachelor of Science in Hospitality; Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy; Certification in Life Coaching Program at Southwest Institute of Healing Arts

License:

Licensed Associate Marriage & Family Therapist

Currently: I am offering in-person and telehealth therapy services on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Telehealth on Mondays and Tuesdays based on availability.

Insurance: Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna