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Neurodiversity Therapists & Consultants
 

Our Team 

Social Grace’s team of dedicated experts is committed to transforming the lives of neurodiverse individuals. Combining professional training and expertise with innate compassion and years of experience, our team members forge dynamic connections with clients that enable them to flourish.

 

 
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Ginny
Founder & Managing Director

Growing up in a neurodiverse family led Ginny to discover her passion for working with children, young adults, and families with different abilities and mental illnesses. With extensive experience and training in behavior analysis, crisis intervention, and developing social and executive function competencies, she has helped improve the lives of children and adults of all abilities.

As the Founder and Managing Director, Ginny is actively involved in all facets of programming, leadership, counseling, and consulting at Social Grace, infusing her contagious energy and grounded purpose into every client’s experience.

A special educator, behavior analyst, and neuroscientist, Ginny is a graduate of The George Washington University. Ginny serves on the Board of Advisors for Enabled Intelligence and the National Security Neurodiversity Network. She has served on her local Community Services Board and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Northern Virginia Young Adult Advocacy Workgroup. She is involved with the non-profit near and dear to her heart, Our Stomping Ground. Ginny runs a free family support network and is dedicated to building more inclusive communities and equipping neurodiverse individuals with the practical tools and strategies they need to live life to the fullest. If you know Ginny, she often says, “And I’m just getting started!”

Pump-up songs:
“A Million Dreams” by Pink & “This Is Me” by Kesha

Favorite breakfast food:
Shaved sweet potato cooked in a skillet with eggs over easy on top

FUN fact:
I was not allowed to get my driver’s license until I got my ham radio license. My call sign is KG4DYZ.


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Kia
Social & Executive Function Coach

Kia brings more than 20 years of experience educating and working with neurodiverse young people, families, and professionals to her role at Social Grace. With specialized expertise in behavior improvement as well as personal and professional skill-building, Kia enables clients to advocate for themselves and find meaning and purpose in their daily lives. An unbiased supporter, Kia empowers families with innovative strategies to improve their daily interactions and minimize stressors at home and at school.

Recognized as Teacher of the Year by Arlington Public Schools and equipped with experience supporting children and families around the world, Kia has made her mark locally and globally. A licensed professional, Kia earned her Master’s degree from The George Washington University.

The one thing you'd bring to a deserted island:
Music

Favorite breakfast food:
Egg whites and cheese

Perfect summer day:
Laying on a beach chair with headphones and a good book

 
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Amy
occupational therapist

Amy received her undergraduate degree at the University of Notre Dame in Psychology and her Master’s degree at Tufts University. Amy is a certified and licensed Occupational Therapist and ADHD coach and is certified through the LEND (leadership education in neurodevelopmental disabilities) program. She has experience in a variety of clinical settings including rehabilitation facilities and schools.

Amy uses evidenced based techniques as well as insight-building activities to help individuals master executive functioning skills and techniques to be able to break down and organize various tasks leading to increased independence and self-sufficiency. Amy also has vast experience with self-regulation and teaching interoceptive awareness (being able to understand how your body is feeling) to identify emotions and appropriate coping strategies. Amy understands that improving executive functioning skills requires looking at the whole person. She takes this holistic, person-centered approach with all her clients.

fun fact:
I was a competitive fencer for most of my life! I fenced at Notre Dame and traveled around the world for fencing!

Favorite Podcast:
Hidden Brain

Best way to spend a summer day:
Outside hiking (as long as it’s not too hot!!!) Ideally somewhere with waterfalls and forests.


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Kelly


therapist

Kelly is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Marriage and Family Therapist. Experienced in counseling clients with anxiety and depression, Kelly focuses on enhancing individuals’ executive function skills and improving their interpersonal relationships. Kelly works to identify specific, solvable problems, then takes a team approach to address individual goals and resolve challenges.

Passionate about helping families, she completed a post-graduate program in Marriage and Family Therapy at Virginia Tech and received additional licensure in Virginia as a Marriage and Family Therapist. She received a Master’s in Counseling from The College of William and Mary and obtained licensure in Virginia as a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Best Halloween costume:
Husband and wife cow outfits complete with bell and udders

Favorite breakfast food:
I don't eat breakfast, but I LOVE pancakes for dinner

Best way to spend a summer day:
On the water relaxing with good friends and good food


 
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George
Therapist

George began his career as a preschool teacher and special educator in natural science. His passion for working with neurodiverse children led him to pursue graduate studies at Columbia University’s Teachers College, where he earned an advanced master’s degree and completed a year-long doctoral internship in clinical psychology. George’s professional fascination with development, learning, and behavior became more personal with the birth of his first child, who manifested early neurodevelopmental delays and concerns.

George is licensed as a Professional Counselor in Virginia, DC, and Maryland, and is also an approved clinical supervisor. George is nationally certified as a Cognitive Behavior Therapist, and he is formally endorsed in Positive Behavior Support (PBS) by Virginia Commonwealth University’s Partnership for People with Disabilities.

George began his post-graduate career as a behavioral clinician helping to safely transition neurodiverse adults with complex behavioral support needs from long-term institutional placements being closed by local courts. He then served in a progression of professional roles and settings with this adult population and was eventually recruited as the senior clinical manager in DC's Developmental Disability Administration (then MRDDA). George also served as part-time faculty at the Corcoran School of Art and Design, teaching psychology to graduate and undergraduate students at the Corcoran School of Art and Design. For the last 15 years, George has focused his therapeutic and behavioral practice on serving children, youths, and dependent adults who are living in family homes or other community settings. George employs a variety of strength-based, positive, person-centered practice strategies which are trauma-informed and consistent with brain science and core behavioral principles. 

Favorite Halloween costume:
Wizard

Favorite subject in school:
Psycholinguistics

Favorite breakfast food:
Crispy spinach with egg


Brittany


Counselor

Brittany has always been inspired to support children with different advantages and empower them to activate their innate greatness. Her genuine love for helping others led her to attend Hampton University, where she received her bachelor's in Psychology and began working in mental health facilities seeing children as young as five. After noticing a trend of referrals coming from the school systems, she attended Walden University to obtain a Master's degree in School Counseling with a specialization in Crisis & Trauma. 

Brittany began her career as an elementary school counselor at a title 1 school during the start of the Pandemic, which amplified the need to have proper coping tools to deal with everyday life stressors not only for children but adults as well. She began studying and incorporating mindfulness in every individual session, whole group lesson, and throughout the school to teach students and staff that they are not their thoughts. 

As she began understanding the connection between the mind, body, breath, and spirit, she looked into different healing modalities to help heal herself and others. Brittany received her 200HR Yoga Teacher Training Certification. She began teaching Yoga to her elementary students then eventually with friends and community members giving them tools that they could use on and off the mat. 

When Brittany isn’t helping others, she is pouring back into her cup by spending time in nature, rock climbing, meditating, or practicing yoga.

Fun fact:
I’m an introvert.

Favorite flower:
I LOVE all flowers, but my favorite is sunflowers. They instantly make me smile when I see one.

perfect weather:

I love when it rains, especially when it’s a thunderstorm!


 
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Christina
Behavior analyst

From an early age, Christina knew she wanted to help people.  In 3rd grade (during the pre-IDEA era), she was recognized as this type of person and was asked to help in classrooms for students with different abilities.  Christina vividly remembers interacting with her friends from this class at recess.  She loved making others smile! She has worked in Applied Behavior Analysis since 1999 and received her master’s degree in Special Education at George Mason University in 2006.  She obtained her BCBA certification in 2008.

Christina is also pursuing another master’s degree in mental health counseling at Wake Forest University.  She hopes to broaden her experiences and expertise to reach the varying needs of her clients.  Her experience is comprehensive, and she has worked with young children, teens, and adults.  Her passion focuses on fostering independence and meaning in the lives of the individuals she serves. 

 Christina loves the outdoors, board games, and jigsaw puzzles!

Pump-up song:
Baba O’Riley—The Who

Favorite book you read last year:
I listen to audiobooks almost daily. My favorite is Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. I read it about every 5 years

One thing you would bring to a deserted island:
a box of matches!


Sarah SOCIAL & EXECUTIVE FUNCTION COACH

Sarah is an Arlington native. She is a licensed special education teacher and received a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master’s in Education with a focus on Early Childhood and Early Childhood Special Education from Radford University. 

After beginning her career as a special education teacher, she found a passion for not only helping children meet their developmental milestones by differentiating instruction and working collaboratively with specialists such as occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, physical therapists, etc. but also by building strong relationships with her student’s families.  She has years of experience crafting developmentally appropriate activities for children in all domains of development but especially in social-emotional development. She has experience with developing social-emotional competencies through trauma-responsive strategies, which include strategies in building trusting and safe environments, identifying feelings, communicating needs, and problem-solving. She has worked with neurodiverse students and spent most of her teaching career working in diverse Title 1 schools which gives her a unique perspective on the needs of her students and their families. 

When Sarah is not working with clients, she enjoys listening to Christian music, spending time with her large family, and researching clean living!

FAVORITE SONG:
We the Kingdom- Dancing On The Waves

FAVORITE BREAKFAST FOOD:
Chicken and waffles

BEST WAY TO SPEND A SUMMER DAY:
Spending the day at the beach and eating Maryland crabs for dinner!

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Jennifer
art therapist

Jennifer is Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC) from Alexandria, Virginia. She received her Bachelors of Fine Art from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. Her involvement as a Rush Teaching Artist at the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation in Brooklyn, fueled her desire to pursue a Master’s degree in Art Therapy. Jennifer graduated from The George Washington University Art Therapy Program, where she interned at the GWU art therapy trauma clinic, serving adolescents and adults in the metropolitan D.C. area. Jennifer practices a trauma-informed approach to art therapy for both individual clients as well as groups. Her previous experience includes providing art therapy with homeless adults at Friendship Place and Miriam’s Kitchen, as well as a shelter for abandoned women at The Banyan Tree in Chennai, India. When Jennifer is not creating and healing through art, she enjoys dancing, listening to Bob Dylan, and carving candles.

Favorite song of all time:
"Queen Jane Approximately," by Bob Dylan

Favorite book:
”City of Joy,” by Dominique Lapierre

Favorite roller coaster ride:
Grizzly at Kings Dominion


Chloe SOCIAL & EXECUTIVE FUNCTION COACH

Chloe, the exceptional maestro at the helm of our Community Support Services as Manager. Hailing from the vibrant city of Baltimore, MD, Chloe's journey is fueled by a profound desire to uplift and empower others. Holding a Bachelor of Arts and Masters degrees in Social Work from Salisbury University, her academic prowess is matched only by her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.

Having devoted her expertise to a Life Crisis Center, Chloe fearlessly delved into the depths of vulnerability, working tirelessly to help individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Her innate ability to connect and empathize enables her to guide others on transformative journeys of self-discovery.

But Chloe's passion extends beyond one-on-one interactions. As a beacon of inspiration, she has facilitated group sessions focused on executive function and social strategy building, instilling confidence and resilience in individuals of all ages. Through her guidance, these individuals find their voices and embrace their unique abilities, setting them on a path to success.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Chloe finds solace and joy in the embrace of new experiences. With a deep-seated curiosity and love for exploration, she embarks on adventures to new lands, relishing in the discovery of diverse cultures. Her transformative study abroad experience in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2018 opened her eyes to the beauty and interconnectedness of the world. Fueled by wanderlust, Chloe aspires to traverse the entire country, immersing herself in the richness it has to offer.

When the curtain falls on a fulfilling day, Chloe finds her heart anchored in the presence of her cherished family and friends. Whether basking in the warm embrace of a sun-kissed beach or surrendering to the thrilling delights of amusement parks, these moments of connection and laughter nourish her spirit and bring a radiant smile to her face.

With Chloe's remarkable leadership and unwavering dedication, our Community Support Services Program thrives, radiating compassion and empowerment. Her innate ability to build bridges and inspire others propels our team toward creating a brighter future for those we serve. At the heart of Social Grace, Chloe's brilliance shines as a guiding light, illuminating the path to a more compassionate and inclusive world.

FAVORITE SINGER:
Demi Lovato

FAVORITE BREAKFAST FOOD:
Everything bagel with avocado spread

BEST WAY TO SPEND A SUMMER DAY:
Relaxing on the beach with my friends and family

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Jenny
Social & Executive function coach

Jenny is a dedicated educator and coach who brings a wealth of experience to her work with Social Grace. With a focus on working with neurodivergent children and adults, Jenny incorporates yoga and mindfulness practices into her coaching sessions, helping her clients to build self-awareness and achieve personal growth.

Prior to joining Social Grace, Jenny spent years working in education policy and research at a high-tech company, where she advised policymakers and school administrators on a range of issues related to STEM curriculum, diversity, and workforce development. Her passion for teaching led her to pursue a teaching license and a master's degree in K-12 education, and she went on to work at private schools in Washington, DC, where she focused on differentiated learning and classroom management.

When she's not coaching or teaching, Jenny can often be found on the yoga mat, teaching classes in Bethesda and around the DMV. With her diverse background and deep commitment to helping others, Jenny is an invaluable asset to each individual and family who has the pleasure of working with her!

pump up song:
This Is My Fight Song

best book you read last year:
Tomorrow Tomorrow Tomorrow

BEST WAY TO SPEND A SUMMER DAY:
At the Beach of course!



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Carmen


Social & Executive Function Coach

Motivated by the opportunity to help diverse clients identify unique success strategies, Carmen has coached numerous young adults through the Social Grace Launch Program. Her love of global cultures and years spent living abroad inspired Carmen to immerse herself in the field of social learning. She is a graduate of American University with a degree in Communications.

Pump-up song:
“Just Fine” by Mary J. Blige

Favorite museum:
The Newseum

Perfect summer day:
Next to the beach with turquoise water and a light breeze

 
 
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Anna
Social & Executive Function Coach

Anna is a Massachusetts native and earned her degrees at UMass Amherst in economics and sociology. She discovered her passion for working with neurodiverse individuals and became a licensed and certified assistant behavior analyst, completing her course work at George Mason University. She has worked with children and young adults for over 20 years. Anna also comes from a neurodiverse family and understands the complexity and challenges presented for all.  

Anna loves music, dancing and is often singing while cooking some plant-based dishes! 

Favorite breakfast food:
A tofu scramble burrito, extra spicy!

Best way to spend a summer day:
Taking my dog to the beach.  She loves jumping in the water and digging in the sand and always has a huge smile on her face!

Favorite museum:
”All You Need is Love,” The Beatles



Jenny


Social & Executive function coach

Jenny has been an educator in independent schools for the past fourteen years and has tutored students with learning differences in both one-on-one and small group settings. Jenny studied English and Psychology at the Claremont Colleges in Southern California and received her master’s degree in Childhood General Education from Bank Street College of Education in New York City. She has taught in New York City, Washington, DC, and Cambridge, Massachusetts. Jenny is trained in teaching mindfulness and loves implementing mindful techniques with young people. She has facilitated mindfulness groups for educators and families in the DC metropolitan area and enjoys working to bridge the gap between school and home life. In the classroom, Jenny prioritizes teaching social-emotional learning, building supportive communities, and creating space for students to feel known and grow towards their goals. She enjoys working with clients one-on-one and is thrilled to focus more deeply on each individual’s hopes and goals in a coaching role. Outside of her work as an educator, Jenny loves trail running in the mountains with her husband, singing, and walking her very energetic dog. 

Fun fact:
I once won a log-rolling competition

Favorite breakfast food:
French toast with syrup on top

Best way to spend a summer day:
Hiking a scenic trail, followed by a great meal and maybe a nap!


 
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Claire
Therapist in residence

Meet Claire, a dedicated Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) from Bethesda, Maryland. Holding a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with highest honors from Lehigh University, Claire's academic journey propelled her toward her passion for positively impacting people's lives.

Continuing her pursuit of excellence, Claire ventured to Columbia University’s School of Social Work, earning a Master of Science in Advanced Clinical Social Work Practice. While at Columbia, she immersed herself in hands-on experiences. Claire's compassionate spirit shone as she engaged in individual and group play therapy sessions with children, teens and adults spanning a spectrum of developmental disorders and neurodiversities, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, and depression. An additional internship at Pace University’s Student Accessibility Office showcased her skills in leading social skills groups and providing personalized assistance to students seeking accommodations at the University level.

Claire's expertise extends to both individual and group therapy settings. Drawing from a trauma-informed perspective, she employs a dynamic toolkit incorporating Child-Centered Play Therapy, DIR Floortime, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. These approaches are tailored to the unique needs of each client, fostering an environment of growth, healing, and empowerment.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Claire finds joy in running along the scenic C&O canal and immersing herself in the world of literature. A true enthusiast, she balances her interests with a love for indoor and beach volleyball—where her competitive spirit and team-player attitude shine.

Claire's journey is defined by her unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of those she serves, making her an invaluable asset to the Social Grace team.

best Halloween costume:
My friends and I dressed up as giant cupcakes. I was the pink one!

Fun fact:
I played Division I volleyball at Lehigh and now enjoy coaching youth volleyball!

BEST WAY TO SPEND A SUMMER DAY:
Paddleboarding!


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Gabriela


Social & Executive Function coach

Gabriela, a native of Northern Virginia, has nurtured a career dedicated to working with children of all ages. With a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Spanish from Catholic University and a Master's degree in Special Education from George Mason University, she possesses a strong foundation for her work.

For over 10 years, Gabriela has immersed herself in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Throughout her career, she has successfully helped children develop essential social and executive function competencies and strategies. Witnessing clients’ growth and progress has been an incredibly fulfilling experience for her, as she takes great joy in guiding them toward reaching their individual milestones.

Being a military spouse, Gabriela understands the unique stress that accompanies a prolonged separation of parents. This understanding allows her to provide compassionate support and guidance to families navigating such challenging circumstances. Moreover, her fluency in English and Spanish enables her to effectively engage with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, further enriching her ability to provide tailored assistance.

Outside of her professional commitments, Gabriela treasures quality time spent with her family. She also embraces her passion for exploration by embarking on thrilling travels across the globe.

Fun fact:
I like to go spelunking.

Favorite museums:
Louvre and Vatican

favorite breakfast food:
Crêpes


 
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Sarah
office & Program Manager

Sarah is an Eastern Shore of Maryland Native who studied Spanish literature and philosophy at The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. She has lived all over the country and worked in Special Education in South Bend, Indiana. Sarah is an experienced manager, previously serving families seeking in-home educational services and childcare. Sarah is passionate about problem-solving and has experience working with families and children from diverse backgrounds.

FAVORITE MUSEUM:
The Art Institute of Chicago

FAVORITE BREAKFAST FOOD:
Feta and tomato omelet

BEST WAY TO SPEND A SUMMER DAY:
A long hike, a swim in the ocean, and eating a bucket of French Fries swimming in vinegar!