About

My experience includes 23 years in the field of mental health and behavioral analysis, working with individuals ages 12 months to over 70 years. I have been educated in theory incorporating applied behavior analysis, collaborative learning theory, cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy, and family therapy. I have experience working with children and adults with a wide range of mental challenges in outpatient and inpatient settings (including hospital, PICU, clinical, and residential), educational (school) settings, as well as in-home and community environments. I have been trained in crisis support that includes but is not limited to the following: behavior management, operational definition of the problem, assessing needs and concerns, debriefing during the crisis, addressing basic needs, providing practical and immediate care and support, providing comfort and assistance to facilitate a state of calm, providing additional resources, services, and social supports, examining alternatives, ensuring safety while protecting individuals from further harm, making a plan, and obtaining commitment. I have been formally trained in the following areas: diagnosing mental challenges and cognitive abilities utilizing a variety of tools and assessments, interfacing with clinics and insurance companies in the development of treatment plans, filing claims, formal peer review, developing IEP goals, and data tracking in the school setting. I have been involved in and presented a variety of research in these areas throughout the years. I graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I then obtained a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology (with a Specialty in Marriage and Family Therapy) from Our Lady of the Lake University. I subsequently obtained licenses as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Texas. I attended the Behavior Certification Program at the University of Houston – Clear