Growing up as a second-generation Floridian with Puerto Rican roots, I’ve always understood the importance of community, family, and supporting each other through life’s challenges. That understanding has guided my 20-year career in Broward County Public Schools and now brings me to Optimal Living Center as a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern.

One of the most meaningful parts of my career has been my work as a district support counselor following the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy in Parkland. I became a Nationally Certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor, a trained Center for Mind Body Medicine Skills Facilitator and a trained Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy Broker so I could provide trauma-informed, mindfulness support to individuals, groups and families directly impacted by that devastating event.

Currently, as a Suicide Prevention Specialist, I teach children from 5th to 12th grade how to recognize signs and symptoms of mental health distress in themselves and others, develop coping skills for managing difficult emotions and connect with resources available at school, local, and national levels.

While my heart has always been with youth and adolescents, my personal journey has expanded my passion to include women facing prenatal diagnoses, families navigating complex medical journeys and those experiencing the overwhelming feelings of grief and loss.

I’m the mother of a beautiful daughter who was born with a rare medical diagnosis and lived four full, joy-filled years. Her life and legacy continue to shape how I approach my work, and I hope to honor her memory by teaching others advocacy, wellness techniques and how to face life’s challenges by tapping into their faith and finding personal joy in their journey.

When I’m not at school or in counseling sessions, you’ll find me reading, traveling, gardening, attending concerts, spending time with friends and family, supporting other Trisomy 18 families or cheering on my alma mater – the Florida Gators!

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Call Us

Reach out on 305-315-CARE (2273) or email [email protected]. We’ll answer your questions, explain how we work and help you figure out the next step.

Get Matched

We’ll connect you with the right therapist for your situation and what you’re going through. Then we’ll schedule your first appointment at a time that works best for you.

Start Living

Begin your sessions where you’ll learn new ways to handle whatever’s been weighing you down so you can start moving towards your optimal life.