Introduction

Hi! I'm Jackie, and my superpower is connecting with young people! With over 30 years of experience working with children from around the world, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my practice. As an educator, I dedicated myself to understanding the unique challenges, needs, and milestones that shape a child's emotions and behavior. Now, as a therapist, I’m committed to empowering children and their families to build healthy relationships and grow with resilience.

I have a passion for helping neurodiverse families, especially children whose parents suspect a diagnosis. With a deep understanding of how ADHD overlaps with other forms of neurodiversity, including ASD, OCD, and sensory processing differences, I love guiding families through this part of the journey and celebrating the hope that comes with understanding. I’m especially skilled at explaining neurodiversity to young kids, helping them navigate questions about medication, big feelings, and social challenges at school. Watching a child’s self-esteem and confidence begin to heal is the best part of this work for me. That healing is the foundation on which all future supports can be built.

I also love working with parents, helping them understand how anxiety and neurodiversity affect their family while offering practical tools to support change at school and at home. I've recently discovered a passion for learning about PDA, understanding how it presents, and piecing together how a child-centered framework can support families in crisis. 

Another specialty of mine is helping parents and caregivers become calm, consistent, and in control with real tools that create real change. My goal is to help you rediscover the joy of parenting and delight in your child, no matter what challenges you're facing.

I work best with parents and chidren between the ages of 3-8. Please see one of my amazing partners for older adolescents and teens.

Education

1996 Yale University - Public Speaking

1998-2006 UNC-Charlotte - BA Psychology & BA Religious Studies 

2018-2019 NYU - MA Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness

2019-2020 Antioch University - Play Therapy Certificate Program

Affiliations

American Counseling Association

Association for Play Therapy

Washington Association for Play Therapy

Contact me Directly:

jackie@playscapetherapy.com

(425) 230-7973