Do you have any tips or advice for potential employees?
You have to understand that school and advanced degrees can only prepare you for so much. When you actually start working here – no matter the position or program – you may feel overwhelmed at first. There is a huge learning curve in the first few months. Be prepared to spend about six months working very, very hard. After that, things will get easier and become more natural.

What kind of work atmosphere do you strive to create for your staff?
We are very team-oriented. Every leader at Youth Villages started their career in an entry-level position. They all know and understand what you’re going through as a new staff member. Because of that, we pull our resources together to make the job more manageable for you. I and my colleagues, we all want you to succeed and do well at what you are coming here to do – to help children and their families live successfully.

What qualities do you look for in a new employee?
I look to hire staff who are dependable, organized, accountable and who have a passion to do whatever it takes to help a child and family. Every staff member in the programs I oversee needs to be able to engage families in treatment and be able to think critically, as well as to come up with creative solutions to resolving family conflict and movtiating children to change their behaviors.