I've always felt really drawn to working with kids, especially kids with disabilities. Whether it was the children I worked with as a preschool teacher or members of my own family with developmental disabilities, I was always so enamored by the beautiful way they see the world. Studying child and developmental psychology in college motivated me even further, and the more I learned, the more I realized I had found the right career path. I noticed that my ability to empathize, be patient, and meet people where they are were all things I could use to make a real difference in people's lives.
What is important to me...
Individuals and families should be able to trust and rely on the people who support them. The support person should have a deep understanding of their needs, so families don't have to explain their situation over and over again. Caregiver burnout and autistic burnout are real, and support staff should always be finding ways to help avoid them.
I am known for...
Making things as easy and stress-free as possible. I know that the individuals and families I work with have more going on than I could ever imagine, so I really try to anticipate their needs and make things as smooth as possible for them.
I really enjoy...
Cuddling with my dogs, spending quality time with my husband, being outside in nature, gardening, and reading.
Experience
Before joining NeuroNav, Sydney worked as a substitute preschool teacher, an ABA therapist, and a service coordinator at San Diego Regional Center. Teaching gave her hands-on experience understanding how to work with and care for kids. ABA deepened her understanding of the autistic community and the incredible dedication of the families she worked alongside. And her four years at the regional center, where she created hundreds of IPPs and budgets, gave her a comprehensive understanding of what people need, how they navigate relationships, and what barriers they might face. All of this experience informs her work as an IF every day.
Education
BA in Psychology with a minor in Child and Adolescent Studies, California State University, Fullerton
