Experience, Education and Training
Prior to working in the schools, Patty earned her degree in Art and Art Therapy and worked as a creative arts therapist, portrait painter and photographer. Her experience in these fields has given her a unique perspective into the creative process and the multiple gifts of her clients. As an art therapist she honed her skills in client centered, interpersonal practices.
Patty has been a licensed school psychologist for 20 years. She worked for Denver Public Schools for 17 years and as a private contractor for Jefferson County Schools for two years. She provides a broad spectrum of diagnostic services for gifted children and adults, persons with disabilities, college students and The Department of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Patty's specialization as a school psychologist has been in the field of gifted education and assessment and includes:
*Training with nationally renowned experts in the field.
*Serving as Director of Gifted Education for a local school district.
*Providing counseling, advocacy and assessment for gifted students as a
school psychologist in numerous schools with programs for gifted children.
*Teaching art at a private school for gifted and talented students.
*Serving on the GT advisory counsel for Denver Public Schools.
*Raising a Gifted and Talented child.
Why Diagnostic Experience is Important
After two decades of assessment experience, Patty has become more than a test provider. Her diagnostic skills are a culmination of professional interaction with and observation of thousands of adults and children.
Patty's assessments provide knowledge, documentation and information that allows for effective communication with doctors and teachers.
Why a School Psychologist is Right for Your Assessment
School psychologists offer expertise in the psychology of thinking, feeling and learning which impacts every aspect of life including socializing, family interactions and school or work performance. They are experts in addressing the educational, emotional, social and behavioral challenges that children and adults experience. They apply their understanding of human development, psychodynamics, learning theory and the impact of culture, health and the environment to serve clients and their families. Experience in the schools provides them with unique insight into how the education system impacts children from the highest levels of administration to the teacher-student relationship and the social dynamics of the classroom. This applies to the elementary, secondary and college level. The holistic and scientific based training of school psychologists makes them uniquely qualified to apply theory and practice to education, employment and daily life.