I’m a pediatric psychologist in Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology who works in the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics (DDBP). My specialty is treating behavior disorders in children and adolescents with developmental disabilities. I work with a team, including another psychologist and behavioral health specialists, to help patients reduce treatment-resistant aggression, self-injury, elopement and other serious behavioral challenges. Our team provides family-centered care through developing meaningful and attainable treatment goals with caregivers as partners.

My early exposure to data-based and evidence-based behavioral treatment approaches inspired me to develop the Brief Intensive Behavior Therapy program, which has become a clinical service line within DDBP. Caregivers are an integral part of the work in my clinical program and they apply the treatment directly in the clinic with staff support, which prepares them to use the treatment plan at home. We also ask caregivers to log behaviors at home, which helps us understand how the treatment is progressing.

As a training specialist at the University of Cincinnati Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, I develop curricula and provide training to support people with disabilities and their families in the community. I also lead behavioral safety initiatives within DDBP. My other areas of focus include caregiver training in behavioral treatment components and the use of technology in treatment.

In 2016, I received the Dr. Jack Rubinstein Award at Cincinnati Children’s. This award is given to an employee recognized as embodying the vision and mission of the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics: to provide collaborative, evidence-based and family-centered care; to train leaders in the field of developmental disabilities; and to advocate on behalf of individuals with disabilities and their families.

I am inspired by the determination I see in children with developmental disabilities and their families. While these children and families face great challenges, they also show incredible resilience. Each child and family is unique, and I enjoy the processes of working with families to solve problems and improve family quality of life.

My hobbies include reading a good book, gardening, cooking for friends and family, and taking long runs.