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Professional Background
I have had the privilege of working in various capacities that have equipped me with a deep understanding of the needs and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities:
Child Development Degree from Weber State University
Paraprofessional: Supporting students with special needs in the educational setting, in a charter school.
Special Olympics Dance Coach: Fostered an inclusive and supportive environment where athletes of all abilities can experience the joy and benefits of dance.
Day Program Aide: Working in a day program for individuals with disabilities engages them with various activities and helps them learn life skills.
Resident Assistant: Assisting adults with disabilities in a residential facility with their everyday lives.
Special Education Teacher: Teaching pre-K through 12th grade students with special needs, in a private school setting.
Preschool and Daycare Owner: Owned and operated a preschool and daycare, providing early childhood education and care to neurotypical and special needs children and infants.
Foster/Professional Parent: Caring for high-level kids and teenagers with special needs.
Parent to 4 individuals that range in age from 23-16 now, and have a range of special needs, both medical and mental: Provided comprehensive care and support for four children with various medical and mental health needs. Responsibilities included managing medical appointments, coordinating with healthcare providers, implementing individualized care plans, advocating for their educational and developmental needs, and fostering a supportive and nurturing home environment. Developed strong problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of the importance of patience, empathy, and effective communication in caregiving.
Each presentation is engaging, relatable, and practical, blending lived experience with real tools your audience can use immediately. I speak from the heart, using storytelling, humor, and honest conversation to create meaningful connections and long-lasting impact.
Whether your audience consists of caregivers, educators, medical providers, or community members, I tailor each talk to meet their unique needs. I offer virtual and in-person formats, and I am happy to provide workshop handouts, slide decks, or Q&A sessions as part of the experience.
If you're interested in partnering for a speaking engagement, training, or event, I’d love to connect further. Thank you for the work you’re doing—and for making space for voices like mine in your community.
These are some of my available topics, but I can always create something unique to fit your needs.
The Critical Role of Documentation and Advocacy in Special Needs Care
Inclusive Classrooms, Bright Futures: Supporting Neurodivergent Learners in Early Childhood
What Comes Next? Preparing Autistic Teens for Adulthood
Fostering an Inclusive Environment in Extracurricular Activities and Camps
Inclusive Employment Training: Creating a Workplace for All
Raising Neurodivergent Teens: The Journey No One Prepares You For
Special Needs Travel Hacks: How We Road Tripped with Autism, ARFID & Allergies
Fight Like A Mom: Turning Overwhelm into Advocacy
The Power of Routine: Helping Kids Thrive with Structure
Finding Joy in the Chaos: Celebrating the Little Wins
Digital Tools for Special Needs Parenting: Binders, Trackers & More
Burnout in Special Needs Parents: Recognize It, Recover from It
Healing in Advocacy: How Helping Others Helps You Too
Welcome to Holland: Embracing the Journey You Didn’t Plan
The Power of Personal Storytelling in Advocacy
Educate. Empower. Advocate: Building a Legacy of Inclusion
I enjoyed speaking at educational conferences, autism conferences, child care conferences, networking meetings and more.
I am available if you have any questions or need more details.
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