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For nearly three decades, my work has focused on the translation and dissemination of research advances in the area of children’s mental health and well-being. I have collaborated with university-based research teams (Columbia New York University, Ohio State University), non-profit organizations in the U.S. and abroad (The Child Mental Health Foundations and Agencies Network; World Federation for Mental Health; The National Committee for Quality Assurance) to more rapidly translate scientific discoveries into everyday use, and in so doing, improve the quality of health and behavioral health care available to children and families.
My early career training as a Presidential Management Fellow (1993-1995) at the National Institutes of Health, the nation's largest federal biomedical research enterprise, ignited a passion for working collaboratively with scientists to translate and disseminate research findings for parents, providers, and policymakers. |
PublicationsClick here for my publications:
Around the Arena: Equine-Assisted Services’ Foundation in Understanding Human-Horse Interactions
Equine Therapy
Research Project: Reining in Anxiety Outcomes 
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My focus now is on turning three decades of scientific discoveries into better health for children and their families, and working on the ground in communities to translate this knowledge. This includes exploring the potential of leveraging the natural world ~ plants and animals ~ to improve youth and family well-being. Humans are innately drawn to the natural world (the biophilia theory). I see the power of this firsthand in my volunteer roles as an Ohio State University 4-H Extension Program Volunteer for both the NR Homesteaders 4-H Club (agriculture and livestock production), as well as the Cuyahoga County PetPals program (companion animals to assisted living). These two experiential-based 4-H programs for youth 5-18 have the goal of contributing to positive youth development (PYD).