FAQs

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 I consider myself a "playful" Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.  I use Positive Psychology, and Solution-Focused therapeutic approaches among others which are all evidence-based. "Social Thinking" (Michelle Garcia Winner) concepts and frameworks are frequently utilized.   Whether we are building new skills or processing feelings, I strive to make our work engaging and fun.  

I will plan and create therapeutic activities for our work.  You will be aware of what we are working on so that you can support your child/teen at home. I may also seek information from school staff and/or share my ideas with educators for how to best support your student (with your permission).   Because I am a small independent practitioner, we can individualize care.

Licensed School Psychologist, Texas

Licensed Professional Counselor - Supervisor (LPC-S), Texas

Professional Counselor, CT

Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Social Thinking Clinical Training: Assessment 

Advanced Oxygen Advantage Instructor

Buteyko Certified Instructor

Bowdoin College -  Sociology and Anthropology double majors; Bachelor's Degree (A.B. 1990)

University of Denver - PhD, ABD (completed all coursework and received Honors on Comprehensive exam 1997)  Counseling Psychology (M.A. 1994)

University of Denver - Educational Specialist Degree in Child, Family, and School Psychology (Ed.S. 2005)

Private Practice:  Independent practice providing specialized counseling and interventions (2021-present)

School Psychologist (TX, FL, CO):  Provide specialized counseling interventions, Psychological evaluations, and consultion with parents and educators (2004-present)  

Program Director:  Infant Development Program, Center for Children and Families, University of Texas, Dallas.  Conducted developmental assessments for toddlers ages 1-3; Founded the "Juega Conmigo" parent-child play-based program (2010-2013)

Family Health Educator:  St. Joseph Hospital, Denver CO.  Founded postpartum support group, "Motherhood, not what I expected"; Taught childbirth education groups for expectant parents (2000-2003)

Licensed Professional Counselor (CO): HMO, Hospital, Private Practice settings (1996-2003)

I prefer to have regular contact with parents to find out how things are going and provide feedback about progress and future planning.  I will provide you with resources so that what is being worked on in counseling extend to home and school.  

The frequency and duration of counseling depends on several factors.  Many youth begin in weekly individual counseling and then join a group and/or move to biweekly sessions.  As things improve, we move to monthly sessions or as needed.  Some participate in group sessions only.  Others start in group and then work individually for a few sessions.  In other words, we can be flexible based on your situation. 

Children and families who have worked with me describe my style as respectful, caring, fun, and creative.  I continuously pursue professional development and consultation to ensure I am informed about current research and practice.  If I do not think I can help your child/family, I will tell you.  

I have three children, two are adults and my youngest is in high school.  Growing up, I mostly lived in the Northeastern United States.  I was raised with an appreciation for different cultures: my father was a Cuban immigrant and my mother is from New Jersey.  Some of my favorite childhood memories occurred when I lived in Mexico City.   I love the ocean and the mountains yet have come to know North Texas as home. 

Text, email, online calendar request.  I use SimplePractice to manage forms, scheduling, and billing.