I grew up in the Midwest where I took an interest in psychology from an early age. In my teens, I would purchase books about psychology, research related topics, and explain to my family and friends that I wanted a career as a psychologist. While still residing in the Midwest, I received an AA degree in psychology while tutoring English and philosophy and became a member of the International Honors Society Phi Theta Kappa. After receiving my degree and working in my family’s restaurant for many years, I applied to Pepperdine University and was accepted into their Psychology Program. While obtaining a BA in psychology, I worked for a program called Jumpstart, which was implemented into preschools for underprivileged children to assist them with learning and social skills. In addition, I volunteered at preschools and observed children with various disorders for class assignments, which eventually led to working with children with special needs.

I began my career in California working in domestic violence as a Crisis Counselor, providing victims with support and resources as well as advocating for them. I worked as a manager on the weekends and during the week went to work for an Addiction Treatment Facility, where I would facilitate groups as well as support women struggling with addiction. I enjoyed my job, and it felt great to help people find coping skills and work through their addiction struggles. I went on to work at other treatment facilities as well and gained a large amount of knowledge and insight in my field. In addition to working in addiction, in the evenings, I worked with children with special needs and gained experience in behavioral psychology.

After 10 years of working in the field and with various populations, I am grateful to be working at NAMI Collier with the Self-Directed Care program as a Life Coach, assisting people struggling with mental illness in their recovery journeys. I believe in our program and in taking a holistic approach to mental wellness. I find it very rewarding to observe our participants benefit from the various services SDC offers.

My ultimate professional goals are to obtain a PSY D, inspire, teach, motivate, and empower people to reach their greatest potential in life.

Working in the Mental Health field requires a large amount of self-care; in my free time, I enjoy spending time with my Shih Tzu’s, reading, writing, researching, going to the beach, martial arts, museums, theater/arts/music, spas, volunteering for Hope Zone (children’s program), and staying connected to friends and family.

My current hours of availability are Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 1pm to 6pm, Thursday and Friday from 12pm to 5pm.