Welcome to my about me page!

I have been a parent for 15 years and am a practicing School Psychologist who has dedicated my career to working with students from culturally diverse populations. I have extensive experience working with students on the Autism Spectrum, ADHD, Emotional/Behavioral Disorders, and Learning Disabilities. I became a School Psychologist during a successful recovery from a life-threatening illness. I received so much love and support that I returned to school and became an educator. I was diagnosed with Juvenile Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 14. I went on to complete middle and high school, and college, living with a chronic illness. Several years later, I was diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease, which also impacted my vision. I am a kidney transplant recipient and survivor. During my successful recovery, I earned my master's and doctorate in psychology. I still live with a chronic illness and have learned through personal experience how to thrive when life is unpredictable.

Education

I received a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from National University in 2008 and a Master of International Business Administration (MBA) from Alliant International University in 2010. After taking time off from work and education and recovering from a chronic illness from 2012 to 2014, I returned to Graduate School and received a Master's in Education, specializing in School Psychology, from Alliant International University in 2019. Soon after, I earned a Doctorate in Psychology, specializing in Educational Psychology, from Alliant International University in 2023, where I became a subject matter expert in evaluating culturally and linguistically diverse populations for special education services. I also completed Continuing Education at the world-renowned Mind Institute through the University of California Davis and a Reading/Dyslexia Certificate through California State San Bernardino during graduate school.

Experience

I am a School Psychologist with almost 10 years of experience bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise in providing comprehensive psychological evaluations and implementing evidence-based interventions to support students' academic and socio-emotional success. During graduate school, I began my fieldwork in San Diego, California, where I gained experience working in a culturally diverse school. After earning my Master's in School Psychology, I worked for the Santa Barbara Unified School District, serving all grade levels. Following four years there, I relocated closer to home and have since worked at the Ocean View School District, supporting students from preschool through middle school.

I am certified through the Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) as a trainer of the Non-Violence Crisis Prevention Intervention Program, with specialized expertise in supporting students on the autism spectrum. This certification reflects my commitment to equipping educators and staff with evidence-based strategies to de-escalate challenging behaviors, create safe learning environments, and promote positive outcomes for students with diverse needs.

Currently, I am pursuing my Preliminary Administrative Services Credential through the University of California, Irvine, where I am developing the knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective educational administrator. The program is providing me with comprehensive training in leadership, school governance, fiscal management, and instructional leadership-all grounded in equity-centered practices and evidence-based decision-making. My coursework is preparing me to support teachers, staff, and students while navigating the complex landscape of school administration with integrity and vision.

Before becoming a School Psychologist, I worked in the restaurant, tax, and financial industries, which foundational experiences continue to inform my collaborative and problem-solving approach in education. I am committed to continuous growth as a leader who fosters inclusive, supportive school environments where every student and educator can thrive.