Get to know me...

Autistic Wife, Mother of 5, CEO, Therapist, Consultant, Author, Trainer, Board Certified Cognitive Specialist, Addiction Specialist, and Neurodiversity Advocate. 

I hold an undergraduate degree in Human Services Counseling from East Central University in Ada, OK, and a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and Community Counseling dual degree from John Brown University in Siloam Springs, AR. I also have an MBA from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. I am currently working on my Ph.D. at the University of Central Arkansas in Change Leadership for Equity and Inclusion with an emphasis on Community Leadership. 

I have worked in a variety of environments, including intensive in-home services, school-based, outpatient psychotherapy settings, and residential facilities. I work with all age groups and economic backgrounds. I have specialized certifications and licenses in substance use, addiction, play therapy, and cognitive disorders. 

I am the owner of Kitchens Counseling Services, a private counseling practice, and the CEO and Founder of Allied Collaborative, which aims to help create a more positive neurodiversity/neurodivergent-affirming culture through business consulting, coaching, counseling, and community engagement. Although we specialize in neurodivergent issues we work with all issues and ages 6 and up. Outside of being a CEO, therapist, consultant, and coach, I am an autistic (with a PDA profile ), married mother of five children, ranging in ages from 10-23. The youngest and middle are AuDHD, and the youngest also has a PDA profile. Most of my children are also neurodivergent.

I am a runner and have run every distance from a 2-mile to a marathon. Half marathons are my go-to race distance. I enjoy spending time outdoors, and NWA is a great place to enjoy nature with all the trails and parks. I like to read and often research things that strike my fancy, so I learn as much as I can about it. I also like to make large, chunky, hand-knit blankets when I get the chance. 

I recently published my first book, If I Can Just Get Through This: A Therapist's Journey and Guidance Through Autistic Shutdown and Its Triggers. You can purchase a copy here.