Clinical Psychologist
Since 2009, I've been helping people understand themselves and others, and achieve their full potential. With three advanced degrees in psychology, I have expertise in personality, mentalization, attachment theory and parental reflective functioning. I'm able to "decode" confusing relationship dynamics and predict how personality traits are likely to manifest in a person over time.
These skills make me uniquely qualified to help you identify "red flags" in your candidates - things that may turn your cheerful new nanny or au pair into a passive aggressive shrew, leaving you wondering what went wrong.
I also apply my clinical skills to support you during and after the selection process. As parents, we naturally feel dependent on our nannies, and are often afraid to "rock the boat." So when frustrations and concerns arise, it can be difficult to figure out who's right, and what to do about it. In these instances, I'll provide the objectivity and understanding you need to make decisions you'll feel good about.
Licensed Attorney
While practicing law for 13 years, I developed an appreciation for clarity, precision and candor. I use these skills to distill confusing and conflicting information into straightforward concepts, and communicate them to you plainly and concisely.
When you're overwhelmed or uncertain, I'll help you distinguish the forest for the trees by offering sound judgment and actionable advice.
Researcher
In 2015, I conceptualized a personality assessment for nannies and au pairs, and began exploring the topic, but found no studies on quality individual childcare. So I embarked on years of research, analysis and training with some of the biggest contributors to psychological science, including Peter Fonagy Eia Asen, and Arietta Slade.
The result has been a merging of contemporary research from clinical, developmental and personality psychology into this proprietary assessment that will make your selection easier and more reliable.
Au Pair Host
I hosted 16 au pairs during my son's childhood. After doing this for years, I assumed I'd be picking out the best candidates. But this wasn't the case, and I was shocked at how often I was unpleasantly surprised. I didn't understand - With all of my experience, how could I be picking substandard au pairs?
I was told that there were big gaps in the selection process that couldn't be filled. I just had to live with her to really know if I'd made a good decision. I was expected to hire her on faith and hope for the best? That's ridiculous! There had to be a better way of vetting these people, but none existed. Until now!
Mother
As a parent, I understand the pressure to do everything and be everybody for your children. But, I found that I was at my best as a mother when I was getting the help and support I needed.
Delegating appropriate tasks to my au pairs played a huge role in creating the peaceful, nurturing environment I wanted for my son (and myself!). With the right help, I felt less stressed and more patient. I became a happier - and better - parent.
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You too can experience more peace, joy and connection in your family with the support of a properly-vetted, wonderful nanny!
