Elizabeth (Liz) C.
Developmental Therapist

Location
Lake County First Steps

Meet Liz, a dedicated developmental therapist and passionate advocate for families and children. As a proud graduate of Purdue University West Lafayette, she earned academic honors while obtaining her Bachelor of Science degree in Youth, Adult, and Family Services. Since her graduation in 2009, she has been making a significant impact in her community. Liz’s career began as a youth care specialist and home visitor, where she worked closely with families and their children. Her dedication and expertise quickly led her to a supervisory role. She also brings valuable experience as a substitute teacher to her diverse skill set. Liz is deeply committed to empowering families by providing the necessary tools and guidance to help children to reach their developmental milestones. Her qualifications include CPR certification and an infant mental health endorsement, underscoring her commitment to safety and mental health. In her free time, Liz enjoys exploring new places, spending quality time outdoors with her husband and daughter, and embracing new adventures. Liz is excited to take you and your child on an adventure toward achieving your goals, providing expert support every step of the way!

Kelly G., DTCS
Developmental Therapist/Communication Specialist

Location
Lake County First Steps Bilingual (Spanish)

Meet Kelly, a remarkable, bilingual (Spanish and English) Developmental Therapist Communication Specialist who brings a world of expertise to the table. Her journey in the realm of child development is as impressive as it is impactful. Kelly’s educational foundation is rock-solid, with a Bachelor of Health Science in Communication Disorders earned from Governors State University. Her commitment to her craft doesn’t stop there; she furthered her credentials by obtaining a Certificate of Conductive Education in 2016, showcasing her dedication to ongoing learning and growth. Her journey into the world of child development began in a daycare setting, where she skillfully worked with children facing diverse developmental challenges. The training she received for her Conductive Education Certificate exposed her to the interdisciplinary nature of treatment, equipping her with the skills to tailor her approach to each child and family’s unique needs. As an added layer of preparedness, she’s CPR certified. Kelly firmly believes that therapy isn’t confined to the duration of each session but extends seamlessly into the child’s home environment. She also acts as a service coordinator for IL early intervention. Kelly’s dedicated to adapting activities continuously, ensuring that progress is a dynamic and ongoing process. One cannot help but be energized by her infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy, which she brings to every therapy session. Kelly’s goal isn’t just to make a difference; it’s to impact every facet of your child’s daily activities positively!

Kelly G, DTCS (Bilingüe español/inglés)
Terapeuta del desarrollo/especialista en comunicación
Conozcan a Kelly, una Terapeuta impressionante con un mundo de experiencia en el Desarrollo Bilingüe (español e inglés), especialista en Comunicación. Su transcurso ha sido impresionante e impactante en el ámbito del Desarrollo Infantil. Con haber obtenido su Licenciatura en Ciencias de la Salud en Trastornos de la Comunicación en la Universidad de Governers State, asegura que su base educativa es sólida. Su compromiso con su oficio y su dedicación al aprendizaje y crecimiento no terminó ahí. En el 2016, amplió su credenciales al obtener su Certificado de Educación Conductiva. Su camino en el mundo del Desarrollo Infantil comenzó en una guardería, donde trabajó con niños que enfrentan desafíos diversos del desarrollo. Al obtener su Certificado de Educación Conductiva, fue expuesta a varios métodos interdisciplinarios necesarios. Dándole la capacidad de adaptar su enfoque a las necesidades únicas de cada niño y familia. Como nivel adicional de preparación, está certificada en RCP. Kelly cree firmemente que la terapia no se limita solo a la duración de cada sesión, sino que se extiende en el hogar durante la rutina de a diario en familia. En IL, Kelly es una Coordinadora de Servicios de Intervención Temprana. Kelly se dedica adaptar actividades continuamente, asegurando que el progreso sea un éxito. Su entusiasmo es contagioso y uno no puede evitar sentirse energizado por su entusiasmo durante cada sesión terapéutica. La meta de Kelly no es solo marcar una diferencia, es poder impactar positivamente la actividades a diario de su hijo!

Michelle H., MS, DT
Developmental Therapist (Supervisor for 1st year DTs)

Location
Lake County First Steps

Meet Michelle, a Developmental Therapist with an extraordinary wealth of experience spanning over two decades, dedicated to empowering children and their families. In 1998, she embarked on her educational journey at Purdue University Northwest, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Developmental Psychology—a pivotal milestone in her mission to impact young lives. Michelle’s quest for knowledge led her to pursue a master’s degree in Education from Calumet College of St. Joseph in 2008. Her journey began as a Service Coordinator in First Steps, but Michelle’s profound desire to work directly with children compelled her to transition into her current role as a Developmental Therapist. Her diverse skill set extends beyond developmental therapy, as she’s also an accomplished elementary teacher, seamlessly blending her expertise to introduce preschool readiness activities to young children who have transitioned out of the First Steps program. Throughout her career, she’s worked tirelessly with children who faced challenges in meeting developmental milestones, including those with Down syndrome, autism, delayed speech, sensory processing disorder, cerebral palsy, and various other developmental hurdles. Michelle’s dedication goes beyond her profession; it’s deeply personal. Her own twins reaped the benefits of First Steps and Early Childhood programs. This personal connection fuels her unwavering belief that every child deserves the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. With grace and passion, Michelle is here to partner with you in the transformative journey of helping your child achieve their developmental milestones!

Vanessa J., DT
Developmental Therapist (Supervisor for 1st year DTs & FS credentialing)

Location
Lake County First Steps (FGRBI Trained) Bilingual (Spanish)

Meet Vanessa, an exceptional Developmental Therapist whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. In 2012, she proudly earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from Governors State University. She’s fluent in Spanish, adding a unique layer of cultural inclusivity to her skill set. She is also CPR certified, ensuring the safety and well-being of the children with whom she works. Her journey with children began in 2008, providing her with invaluable teaching experience. As a developmental therapist, her unique ability to tailor activities for each child paves the way for learning through immersive play-based experiences. A natural-born leader, Vanessa has also taken on the role of supervisor and mentor for first-year developmental therapists. She firmly believes that creating engaging opportunities is the key to both mentoring other professionals and fostering holistic development in children. Vanessa’s personal journey adds a layer of empathy to her professional expertise. Her own children have benefited from the First Steps Program. Vanessa understands the challenges that come with everyday routines but also recognizes the immense rewards when a child reaches a milestone. She brings the perfect blend of professional prowess and personal empathy to her therapy sessions. Her friendly demeanor and boundless energy make her a beacon of positivity and hope. Vanessa eagerly awaits the opportunity to make a difference for your child and family!

Conozcan a Vanessa, una terapeuta excepcional bilingual que incluye cultura e inclusividad en su oficio. Su trayecto en Desarrollo Infantil es nada menos que inspirador. En el 2012, obtuvo con orgullo su Licenciatura Bachillerato en Educación Infantil de la Universidad Governors State. Su prioridad es el bienestar de sus clientes, como nivel adicional de preparación, Vanessa obtiene su certificado en RCP. Su trayectoria con los niños comenzó en el 2008, brindándole una experiencia indispensable. Su experiencia resultó en la capacidad en adaptar diversas actividades aprendiendo a través del juego para cada niño individualmente. Mostrando liderazgo, Vanessa asumió el papel de Supervisora y Mentora de Terapeutas del Desarrollo durante un año. Para fomentar el desarrollo integral de los niños, Vanessa cree que la clave es crear oportunidades interesantes para orientar otros profesionales. A través de propia experiencia, Vanessa comprende y demuestra empatía. Sus hijos se han beneficiado del Programa Primeros Pasos. Ella comprende los desafíos que conllevan las rutinas a diario, pero también reconoce las inmensas recompensas cuando un niño alcanza una nueva meta del desarrollo. Esto demuestra que ella obtiene la combinación perfecta tanto en lo profesional como en lo personal y lo incluye en sus sesiones de terapia. Su comportamiento amistoso y energía ilimitada transmite positividad y esperanza. ¡Vanessa espera ansiosamente la oportunidad de apoyar a su hijo y hacer un cambio positivo para su familia!

Carla K., MEd, DT
Developmental Therapist

Location
Lake County First Steps (FGRBI Trained)

Meet Carla, an amazing Developmental Therapist whose journey in education is impactful. Her pursuit of excellence led her to a Master’s degree in Special Education from Purdue University in 2015, following her earlier achievement of a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 2011. Her thirst for knowledge knows no bounds, as she aspires to earn her PhD in Child Psychology. Carla’s has served as a special education teacher, kindergarten teacher, reading and math interventionist, and case manager for individuals with special needs. Her passion for empowering children and their families has truly flourished. She firmly believes in the transformative power of support and intervention, knowing that with the right guidance, every child can reach their full potential. Carla’s heart has always been with Wee Care Therapy, as both of her children benefited from therapy services. In addition to her rich educational and professional experiences, she is CPR certified, ensuring the safety and well-being of the children she serves. Carla’s therapy sessions are a celebration of enthusiasm and positivity. She firmly believes in infusing fun into learning and celebrates every ounce of progress. Her commitment to open communication and strong dialogue establishes a deep rapport with all the families she serves. Having dedicated her life to working with children, Carla is genuinely thrilled to witness your child’s remarkable growth as a testament to her unwavering dedication to the betterment of young lives!

Carolyn L., DT
Developmental Therapist

Location
Lake County First Steps

Carolyn may be new to developmental therapy, but she is a seasoned veteran who is passionate about caring for and advocating for children. She is a 1992 graduate of Purdue University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. She spent six years working in elementary education. This experience gave her unique insight into what children need to find success in those crucial first years of school. After staying home to help raise her own four children, she reentered the Early Childhood field as a teacher working with children aged 0-3 for 12 years. It was in this role that Carolyn found her calling, and the passion for working as a developmental therapist grew roots in her heart. As a lead teacher, she gained significant hands-on practical knowledge that allowed her to work effectively with children aged 0-3 with a wide range of needs. All of this helps inform her approach to therapy, which could be characterized as a collaborative relationship with families to meet the individual and unique needs of their child through developmentally appropriate play-based activities that help their child become the best version of themselves. She also has significant safety training experience, including pediatric first aid, AED, and CPR certification. Carolyn is excited to be part of Wee Care Therapy and looks forward to partnering with you in your child’s journey to becoming all that they can be!

Kathleen (Kate) M., MS, DT
Developmental Therapist DT Team Leader

Location
Lake County First Steps & FS Eligibility Determination (ED) Team

Meet Kate, a dedicated Developmental Therapist who earned her Master’s degree in Child Development with Infant Specialization from the prestigious Erikson Institute in 2002. As a testament to her outstanding leadership qualities and extensive expertise, she holds the distinguished role of Lead Developmental Therapist at Wee Care Therapy. Her passion for early intervention has been a constant, and she has been providing developmental therapy with First Steps since the inception of her journey. Her dedication is deeply personal, as her adult child, a NICU graduate, personally experienced the transformative benefits of early intervention. Her career path has been guided by a heartfelt belief that the first three years of a child’s life have the most profound impact on their lifelong development. Her vast experience encompasses a wide range of diagnoses, including autism, Down syndrome, prematurity, hydrocephaly, cerebral palsy, sensory processing disorder, and much more. Kate is CPR certified, ensuring the utmost safety and care for the children she serves. She enthusiastically pursues new research and strategies through continuous professional development. In her therapy sessions, Kate embraces a nurturing, intuitive, play-based approach, combining sensory-based strategies with the DIR/FloorTime model, ensuring that every child’s unique needs are met. She places a strong emphasis on involving the entire family in therapy, creating a holistic and inclusive environment where smiles, hugs, giggles, and accomplishments are celebrated with boundless joy. Kate eagerly anticipates the opportunity to be part of your child’s remarkable growth!

Hope M., DT
Developmental Therapist

Location
Lake County First Steps & Porter, Newton & Jasper County First Steps as needed

Meet Hope, a compassionate Developmental Therapist who proudly earned her Bachelor’s degree in Child Development from Olivet Nazarene University in 2023, a testament to her unwavering commitment to the field. What sets Hope apart is her comprehensive knowledge, underscored by a biology minor that equips her with a deep understanding of various disorders and conditions. Hope’s journey took a pivotal turn during her internship with a parent education program. There, she had the opportunity to work closely with children aged zero to three, many of whom faced developmental delays. This hands-on experience allowed her to not only plan and implement developmentally appropriate activities, but also involve parents and caregivers in the process. Her approach is designed to ensure that progress extends beyond therapy sessions, promoting meaningful carryover in the child’s everyday life. Rest assured, Hope is CPR certified, prioritizing the safety and well-being of the children she serves. Her philosophy in therapy is rooted in meeting the child precisely at their current level of development and tailoring interventions to align with their individual needs and interests. Her journey is a testament to her commitment to making a meaningful impact while infusing every session with the joy of learning and growth. With a deep-seated belief that therapy should be enjoyable and engaging, Hope is thrilled at the prospect of guiding your child toward their fullest potential!

Kate Z., DT
Developmental Therapist

Location
Lake County First Steps 

Meet Kate, a passionate developmental therapist that has dedicated her career to helping others. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child and Family Services from Purdue University Northwest in 2009. Kate began her journey in a daycare setting, nurturing young minds and providing a safe, supportive environment for their growth. She completed her 1 year internship working with children in a residential treatment center, gaining invaluable insight into the complexities of child development. This experience laid the foundation for her commitment to social service. Kate went on to provide over 8 dedicated years as a life coach for older youth in foster care, helping guide them through pivotal life moments and achieving their personal goals. She has seen first hand how beneficial the First Steps program is for children and their families, as one of her own children took part in therapeutic services. Kate’s dedication to fostering positive change and helping children and families reach their highest potential drives her work every day. She believes in providing each child with their own unique experience and guidance to help them achieve their developmental milestones. Kate is excited to be part of your child’s journey and witness their growth!