Services
About My Clients
My clients are children & adolescents who are neurodivergent &/or who may experience difficulties with emotional regulation, sensory processing, anxiety, social connection, and cognitive/developmental delays. I also work with youth who are coping with grief, trauma, parental divorce, ADHD, depression, or oppositional behaviors, as well as those who are simply feeling misunderstood or overwhelmed and need a compassionate adult to listen and offer unconditional positive regard and support.
My Background and Approach
As a clinical social worker, I have over 13 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, caregivers & families. I graduated from the University of Southern California School of Social Work, where I focused on clinical practice with children. My approach is developmental, relationship-based, and highly individualized. I integrate elements of play therapy, expressive arts, and I work within the DIR/Floortime framework developed by Dr. Stanley Greenspan. The DIR model emphasizes understanding each child’s unique developmental profile & building emotional connection as the foundation for learning and growth. In sessions, I often incorporate creative and sensory-based modalities such as: • Play therapy and child-led interaction • Art, storytelling, social stories • Movement and mindfulness exercises • Co-regulation through rhythm, play, or animal connection
Why I am a Good Fit for You
I don’t see “autistic” or “challenging” behaviors as defiance or deficits, but as expressions of emotions unmet needs. When we slow down, attune, & truly listen, looking beneath the surface behaviors, we can begin to understand what a child is trying to tell us. I believe it is through relationships that development takes place. A warm, attuned and trusting relationship between a therapist, child, and parent is paramount to progress. Therapy is not about compliance or perfection, it’s about helping each child feel understood, valued, & capable of all forms of growth. Healing happens when a child feels emotionally safe, accepted, and connected. I deeply believe in the power of play, imagination, & joy as essential ingredients in therapy. Through play, children communicate what words cannot; through creativity, they reclaim agency and voice. I see myself as a gentle guide and co-explorer, walking alongside children & families as they discover new ways to connect, regulate, & thrive.