I believe that play is a child’s innate (natural) way of communicating, learning, and healing.  I believe play gives us an insight into the inner world of a child and is necessary when providing treatment.  I also feel that when treatment occurs within a child’s natural environment that is to say in their home, school or other community setting, it is even more powerful and effective.  I also consider the parent or primary caregiver the expert on the child and regard them as partners in treatment and have been witness to significant change and healing in children and families when work occurs as a team approach. 

I am originally from Los Angeles California,but have lived in Charlotte North Carolina for 16 years.  I attended the University of North Carolina Charlotte for my undergraduate and graduate degrees.  I earned two majors for my undergraduate studies, one in psychology and the second in criminal justice.  My graduate degree is in Social Work, with special emphasis on the mental health of very young children.  I have been married for ten years to a wonderful man and I have been blessed with two little girls, a three year old Katia and three month old Mia.  A tidbit about me is that I have a separate and unrelated passion singing and one of my favorite television shows is Law & Order.

I love working with small children and with families in general and have been working in this arena for the last ten years.  I was given the opportunity to be a Parent Counselor and educate parents on typical development as well as what to look for when placing a child in the care of others.  I worked for the local early intervention program for nearly five years providing families with developmental education and support.  I was also employed as a school based psychotherapist where I was given the privilege to help children from 4-18 heal and improve their lives both at home and school.  I was able to practice acquired play therapy skills as a child and family therapist in Gastonia for two years and for the past two years increase my work with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers as an Infant Mental Health Therapist with Carolina Parenting Solutions.  

I want to get to know your children and your family and hear your unique story.  When working with you my goal is to find ways in which I can encourage you and your family, listen without judgment, and understand your needs.  I strive to be transparent, genuine, and honest.  I will treat you as I would want to be treated with empathy and kindness.  It is a privilege to work and serve the families I work with and an even greater honor to be allowed into your home.

*I have been awarded Mastery Certification for The Basic Course on Greenspan DIR/Floortime Approach (tm)