Educational therapy is different from traditional tutoring—it focuses on the how of learning rather than just the what. I help students develop stronger learning and cognitive strategies while building the executive functioning skills that support success, such as organization, time management, task initiation, and study habits. I work with individuals who have learning differences such as dyslexia and ADHD, emotional or behavioral challenges, and those who are gifted or twice-exceptional.
In collaboration with the clinical team at Central Ohio Pediatric Behavioral Health, I also address the social-emotional aspects of learning, including school-related anxiety, frustration tolerance, and self-advocacy. My sessions are strength-based and highly personalized, designed to help each student experience success and grow in confidence. I also partner with families and schools on 504 and IEP plans, ensuring that supports and accommodations meet each learner’s unique needs.
I hold a State of Ohio Department of Education license (2011–present) and am certified in Responsive Classroom practices, which emphasize social-emotional growth alongside academic learning. I also completed the Teachers College Writing Institute at Columbia University, deepening my expertise in literacy instruction and student-centered writing pedagogy.
Before joining Central Ohio Pediatric Behavioral Health, I served in a variety of educational and social service roles. I began by living and working with the homeless community in Kansas City, Missouri, taught post-secondary students in Eritrea, East Africa, and worked in juvenile court and custody intake in Wisconsin. For over 15 years, I was a faculty member at Columbus Academy, where I was honored as a 2023 Wexner Honorary Chair in Elementary Education Nominee and a 2023 Greentree Chair of Social/Emotional Health Nominee.
Outside of work, I live with my partner on a small lake north of Columbus and have three college-age children. In my free time, I enjoy golfing, swimming, knitting, and reading. I find great joy in helping each client discover their strengths and build lasting confidence in learning and in life.
I bring more than 30 years of combined experience as a social worker and educator to my role as an Educational Therapist at Central Ohio Pediatric Behavioral Health in Westerville. My work bridges the worlds of education and therapy to help children, teens, and young adults overcome learning challenges, strengthen academic skills, and build confidence in school and life.