At the heart of my work is a deep-seated passion for neurodiversity and positive psychology. I believe in honoring each individual’s strengths and areas of challenge, and I strive every day to teach young people to get to know their personal intricacies to capitalize on strength and adapt to areas of deficit with the right kind of support. My goal is to enable young people to live their best lives, and I’m constantly seeking new ways to support and empower our clients on their journey to mental wellness.

A guiding principle of my life is reflected in the quote by L.R. Knost, “Do you hear me? Do you see me? Do I matter? Their behavior often reflects our response.” It reminds me that children constantly seek acknowledgment and understanding, and their behavior is a mirror of our responses to them. 

I embarked on my journey in mental health with an undergraduate study of health promotion and health behavior followed by a Masters of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), a foundational experience that equipped me with the knowledge and skills to pursue my career. My professional path began as an as-needed clinical assessment consultant, evolving over time to my current position as Neurodevelopment Specialist at Mind by Design.

I hold a Public Health Nurse Certification from the California Board of Registered Nursing, which has been instrumental in my professional journey. My achievements include establishing evaluation metrics for a mental health consultation service to secure support from Alameda County and Medi-Cal, and designing a support group that alleviated stress for mothers of preschool-age children with atypical sensory behavior. My roles within the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, including serving as Secretary, Co-Chair, and Chair of the Developmental, Behavioral & Mental Health Special Interest Group, as well as my liaison work between developmental and behavioral pediatrics, have been deeply fulfilling. 

When I’m not at work, you’ll likely find me at the gym or local farmer’s market, on the trails with my dog Boonie, or wild sea swimming – sometimes with seals, dolphins and whales! These activities help me recharge and maintain a balanced, healthy lifestyle, which I believe is crucial for anyone in a caregiving role.