I attended Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas, and received a BA in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2001. I then attended Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, Texas, and received my MA in Communication Sciences and Disorders in 2007.

Ever since graduate school many moons ago, I have felt a pull to work with autistic children. Where others felt challenged or at a loss, I leaned in and felt connected to the neurodivergent brain.

Years ago, I moved from a compliance-based to a naturalistic, play-based approach. It always leads to more progress when the child and parent are enjoying what they’re learning. When a clinician is having fun and in the flow, that is a good indicator that connections are being made and that the child and parent are in a place to learn. One of my mentors said, “Be the best toy in the room!” and that has made my practice more effective and fun.

I don’t have children, but I consider all the kiddos I work with “my children.” I enjoy spending time with my dog, 3 cats, family, and good friends. For fun, I love collecting house plants, reading, listening to podcasts, riding my bikes, and lifting weights.