I am a primary care pediatric physician who is drawn to the wonder and hope that is childhood. The early childhood and adolescent years are magical and foundational periods for developing a sense of self. I enjoy being able to partner with caregivers in supporting their children through this amazing time. It is truly a humbling experience.

Every adult either survived or thrived during their childhood. These early experiences not only shape their lifespan, but also have generational effects. Multiple systems affect children's health and development, including dynamics within the family, the community and greater society. Many of these factors are outside of the child’s control. Increasing trust, communication and shared decision-making across these systems are integral to achieving equitable health outcomes for all children.

My research interests focus on mitigating adverse childhood experiences and addressing the barriers (i.e. material hardship, stressors) that limit a caregiver’s ability to foster safe, stable and nurturing relationships for their children. I recognize the interconnection of assets and social risk in shaping a child’s overall well-being and work to identify upstream cross-sector solutions to ensure equitable child health outcomes at the individual and population level. I also work to enhance shared decision-making between families, healthcare providers and other systems to address social risk factors. As a translational health services researcher, I hope my work will inform policy change.

I’m honored to have received a Young Investigator Award from the Academic Pediatric Association (APA). I am certified in General Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics (2018).