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How did you first get involved with SCAN?
I first learned about SCAN and its Circle Preschool Program through a friend in the field who shared with me the different ways SCAN was supporting trauma informed care within the Richmond community. I reached out to see how I could get involved as SCAN’s mission and the unique setting at Circle Preschool really resonated with me, and here I am two years later!
What has your life/work experience been that brought you to SCAN? What is your current role?
In graduate school I took a course on play therapy and there was no going back- I fell in love. That course inspired me to pursue a career supporting children and families through integrating playful modalities that promote connection and self-expression. After graduating, I worked in multiple settings over time including the child welfare system, an outpatient clinic, and at an international school in their preschool program in the Netherlands while living abroad (further solidifying my passion for the "early years"). All of these experiences led me back to Richmond and in turn SCAN where I started as a Clinician, and I am now the Clinical Coordinator at Circle Preschool Program.
What inspires you to stay involved with your work at SCAN?
Many things continue to inspire my work at SCAN including the families we work with and their incredible resiliency, observing the progress the children make throughout the school year (including watching their self-confidence grow and flourish), and my colleagues and their continued passion for aiding and engaging in trauma informed care daily in our classrooms.
Is there anything you wish other people knew about SCAN?
I wish people were aware of how many different community program options and outreach we have. From CASA to the Family Support Program to the Greater Richmond TICN (Trauma Informed Care Network), I am always learning about different resources SCAN has to offer for the Richmond community.
What has been the best experience with SCAN so far?
Working on a team- At Circle Preschool, we are constantly engaged within a multi-disciplinary team. I thoroughly enjoy learning from others and their ideas as we collaborate with one another to support the students on site.
What are any challenges you have faced in your work with SCAN?
Funding! As a non-profit, we are consistently impacted by state and federal funding changes.
Do you have any goals or hopes for the next year with SCAN? Is there anything coming up/happening in your work that you are excited about or want to share?
Personally, I am looking forward to embracing my new role within SCAN as the Clinical Coordinator and extending my abilities to support the children and families we work with, as well as colleagues and student interns through supervision and collaboration.
In exciting news, this summer at the Preschool we are gearing up for field trips, water play days, and delighting in all of the progress the children have made during their time in the program prior to graduating. We are also gearing up for our next school year which is always an exciting time as we look forward to meeting new children and families. We are now accepting referrals for children to join for the 24-25 year.
Are you involved with any other community organizations, hobbies, or activities?
In an attempt to nurture my inner child, I have been experimenting with local pottery classes this winter and spring, and I am currently growing my wonky bowl collection. When I’m not at the pottery studio, I can often be found walking my dog around the VMFA, attending any type of local concert or getting outdoors if the sun is shining.
What might someone be surprised to learn about you?
I've been to 5 out of 7 continents.... and counting! I love to explore and try new things. (Not sure you'll catch me on that boat to Antarctica though).
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