I'm a bilingual occupational therapist from Carpentersville, a working class community of Mexican migrants and their families. My own parents migrated to the United States from Durango and Guanajuato. Spanish is my first language.
When I was 13, the village board of Carpentersville attempted to pass an English-only ordinance. Even at that young age, I knew it was a direct attack on the mostly Spanish-speaking population in my town. While this event hurt me deeply, it ignited my commitment to justice.
Before becoming an OT, I was deeply involved in immigrant rights organizing, most notably as a member of the Student Access Bill Coalition, now known as the Illinois Rise Act, which became law in 2019.
I was so happy when I received my acceptance letter from the University of Illinois at Chicago, one of the best occupational therapy programs in the country. Since graduating in 2021, I have provided services at schools and in early intervention. I am also a teaching artist with the National Museum of Mexican Art’s CASA program. Collectively, I have over 14 years experience working with children.
In my free time, I enjoy making art, cuddling with my pets, and reading graphic novels. As a queer Mexicana, I bring my lived experiences into my therapeutic practice to create genuine connections.
I view imagination as key to transforming how we, as adults, nurture children and honor the magic they bring to the world. My role as a healthcare practitioner is to support families in incorporating practical strategies into their daily lives so that children can grow up to be the compassionate and powerful beings they are destined to become.
Child-centered therapy prioritizes joy and wonder.
The therapist and family members work together to reach goals.
Anti-carceral care empowers children to build a just future.
Your family's wellbeing is a top priority during treatment.
Families receive support in navigating systemic barriers.