My Approach
Comprehensive neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations that are focused on strengths and weaknesses.
The most important goal of psychological assessments is to understand how a person thinks and learns. In my assessments, I focus on finding cognitive and academic strengths and weaknesses that can be used to tailor educational and vocational goals. I use a variety of assessment tools that are customized to fit every unique profile and background. My primary goal is to help children and young adults discover the qualities that make them exceptional while also helping them understand and overcome learning challenges they have faced.
Beyond discovering amazing capabilities, a psychological evaluation can also help ensure that your child is receiving the educational services that he/she deserves, and can also help develop adequate interventions and accommodations to ensure future success. As a team, we will develop plans that will allow your child to thrive in their aspirational goals.
About Me
I was born and raised in Cuenca, Ecuador, and moved to the US to attend college at the age of 18. I completed my Bachelor's degree in Sociology at Stony Brook University in New York. Soon after graduating, I worked briefly as a public school teacher, where I became interested in helping students who struggled with learning and were stuck in a system that did not fit their needs. This motivated me to complete a PhD in School Psychology at the University of Arizona, where I authored my dissertation on Assessment of Reading and Dyslexia in English Language Learners. I continue to be an active publishing researcher, co-authoring two chapters of Essentials of Dyslexia Assessment and Intervention with Dr. Nancy Mather, along with a number of published research papers focused on Dyslexia Assessment. For more information on my current research, please visit my academic website at Academia.edu.
My private practice in Northern California focuses on working closely with students, families, and school districts to identify educational challenges and develop strategies to overcome these. I am certified in a number of testing modalities, including ADOS-2, observation and play-based assessments for young and nonverbal children, and Pattern of Strengths and Weaknesses, among others. My primary specialties include cognitive and neuropsychological assessments for learning disorders (including dyslexia), ADHD, and Autism.
My current office is in Marin County, but I serve families in the entire Bay Area. I serve children and young adults and can also work with parents and districts on Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs). Please contact me for a free consultation to determine how I can help your family, including an evaluation plan and quote.
Education
Doctor of Philosophy, School Psychology | University of Arizona
Master of Science, Education | Queens College
Bachelor of Arts, Sociology | State University of New York at Stony Brook
