My journey in the mental health field began over 25 years ago in a high school Child Development class, where I first worked with a neurodiverse client. That early experience taught me the profound importance of social connectedness for all children, including those on the autism spectrum. I went on to work in a child development center, where I witnessed the transformative power of attunement and parental involvement in supporting children’s growth.
This passion guided me to earn a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Rochester Medical Center, where I was deeply influenced by the Biopsychosocial Approach and Medical Family Therapy. Over the years, I’ve supported children and families in a range of settings—including Hillside Children’s Center, Monroe Community Hospital, and the University of Rochester Medical Center—as well as in special education programs and community mental health agencies such as The Bill Wilson Center and Evergreen Valley College Psychological Services.
Since joining Nugent Family Counseling Center in 2015, I’ve had the privilege of integrating all these experiences to help children and families thrive. My work is guided by values of social connectedness, attunement, family-centered care, and a biopsychosocial approach that considers each client holistically. I also emphasize evidence-based, neurodiversity-affirming practices that respect and honor each child’s unique neurotype.
The most rewarding part of my work is witnessing the growth that happens when a child develops genuine social connections and a family feels closer than before. I find great joy in using principles from Family Systems Therapy and DIR Floortime to help children connect through play and help parents learn how to foster these moments at home.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, listening to music, going to the beach, hiking, and gardening. Most of all, I love spending time with my family and our goofy golden retriever. My colleagues and clients often learn that my passion for supporting neurodiverse children has been a lifelong commitment—grounded in research, experience, and a continuous drive to learn what truly works.
A favorite quote that reflects my philosophy is, “You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” – Christopher Robin. Another I hold close is, “A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms.” – Zen Shin.
Clinical Focus & Expertise:
- Supporting neurodiverse children—particularly autistic children—in developing authentic social skills.
- Strengthening parent-child relationships and family closeness.
- Helping clients who have not found success through traditional behavioral or social skills interventions.
Therapeutic Approaches:
- Family Systems & Medical Family Therapy
- Biopsychosocial Approach
- DIR Floortime
- Attachment-based, attunement-focused methods
Recommended Reading:
The Rabbit Listened, The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm, and Competence, Courage & Change.
Professional Credentials:
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #90321)
- Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS)
- ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP)
- DIRFloortime® Certification
- Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, University of Rochester Medical Center