My expertise comes from more than just training—it was forged by navigating a difficult path. I grew up in a traditional, homophobic Latin American household marked by poverty and domestic violence. As a queer person in that environment, I learned firsthand how to survive trauma, carve out my own identity, and fight for a better future on my own terms. That journey is why I’m so committed to this work. My lived experience informs how I help others through their own complex life transitions. It’s why I became a Behavior Interventionist for the autism community and completed 80 hours of Peer Support training—to turn my understanding into practical, effective support. I meet you with the profound empathy that only comes from having walked a similar road, ready to help you find your own path forward.

I was taught that being of service was the key to being a good person. By 8, I already believed that my worth came from self-sacrifice. “Since your mom says you can only invite 3 girls, I’ll stay home,” I’d say. In my teens, overextending myself felt like a superpower. The idea of considering my own needs brought shame. As an adult, with a growing circle—husband, child, coworkers, friends—I kept giving, even as my time shrank. I believed I had to earn love through effort. But eventually, I burned out. I felt resentful and invisible. The truth? I didn’t know how to set boundaries. That realization changed everything. I dove into learning, therapy, and observing those who honored their own needs and others’.Recently, I even gave a professional talk on healthy boundaries. If you struggle to set limits without guilt, I see you. I’ve been there. Let’s work together to create a plan that honors YOU, too.

I began volunteering at the age of 33. I learned it's never too late to start volunteering. It's a great time to start at any age or phase of life. I've mentored many college students seeking opportunities to volunteer to add to their college transcripts and job resumes. However, I found my passion for volunteering after college as a student in a Grief Recovery six weeks' course to cope with my father's death. On the last day of class, my teacher asked if I'd be interested in volunteering as a teacher myself. It was an answered prayer, as I had already been contemplating this same decision. But, two weeks after my class ended, my mother died. I remember calling the Chaplin into my mother's hospital room to pray over her before she passed. I also asked him for guidance on whether to withdraw or still volunteer. His answer was simple and profound. "By simply being there, your presence itself could help someone else." I've never looked back since then. Volunteering has made life better!