I started my professional career in education, but quickly realized I was more interested in the emotional and behavioral functioning of children and adolescents. I decided to change my focus to the field of psychology and have never looked back.

As a pediatric psychologist, I do general assessments of children and adolescents that range from evaluations of personality to those of severe issues with mental health. A psychological assessment is much like a giant puzzle that includes who the person is and their strengths and weaknesses. I love figuring out the individual pieces of the puzzle and how they fit together!

Service to others was a core component of my family as I was growing up. My dad was a pediatric dentist and my mom was a care coordinator for kids with developmental delays. I have been interested in working with children for as long as I can remember. I babysat and volunteered as a camp counselor with both typically developing children and children with developmental delays.

In my practice, I use a humanistic approach that focuses on each individual's worth and uniqueness in the context of the family and societal systems. Central to this approach are the qualities of empathy, compassion, dignity, respect, and unconditional, positive regard. I am dedicated to making things better for everyone through developing a person's potential, along with understanding that life is a process and change is inevitable.

In my free time, of which I have very little, I’m busy with my four kids. I go to their activities and try to be as present in their lives as possible. My favorite time of day is when I get to wind down and hear about their day. My other interests include reading a good book, connecting with my friends and family, and trying to get fit.