Hi there! I’m Lizzy, and I’ve had the joy of working with children in many different settings. From babysitting and teaching swim lessons to being a summer camp counselor, I’ve always loved connecting with kids of all ages and backgrounds. Meeting children where they are—emotionally, cognitively, and physically—has shaped my approach to working with them.
During college, my passion for adapting to each child’s unique needs grew as I volunteered at a pediatric hospital. Providing play for children undergoing medical treatments showed me just how resilient and creative kids can be, even in tough situations. It was during this time that I discovered the incredible field of child life!
Child life specialists support children and families through life’s most challenging moments. We use age-appropriate language to explain medical conditions or life changes, helping children understand, cope, and feel a sense of control. Through my master’s degree, I saw firsthand how child life interventions can be tailored to meet each child’s unique needs.
Working in pediatric critical care for nine years has taught me to build quick, meaningful connections with children and their caregivers. While I’ve become skilled at helping children navigate the healthcare setting, I firmly believe that caregivers and families know their child best. My approach is deeply rooted in family-centered care, which means I prioritize collaboration with families, respect their insights, and ensure that their needs and perspectives guide our interactions. This belief in the family’s central role is the foundation of my practice, helping me to provide support that truly resonates and makes a difference.
I offer a variety of interventions and support for children of all ages and diagnoses, including:
Medical and therapeutic play
Developmentally appropriate explanations about medical events, conditions, and treatments
Grief and bereavement support
Coping with new experiences (medical and non-medical)
Sibling support
Creation of coping strategies
In my free time, I love baking, spending time with friends and family, tackling DIY projects, and enjoying the great outdoors—especially the mountains of North Carolina!
I’m excited to work together to support you and your family!
Hi there! I’m Lizzy, and I’ve had the joy of working with children in many different settings. Fr...
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Hi, I’m Savannah. Growing up with a brother who was diagnosed with a chronic illness, I quickly saw the profound need for support and care within families. This experience ignited my passion for helping others and creating a space where people can be their authentic selves, feeling understood and valued.
I am deeply client- and child-focused, believing strongly in the power of a supportive and nurturing environment. My approach is holistic, always considering how the family system plays a crucial role in a person’s development and well-being. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which I use to help clients navigate their challenges and achieve meaningful growth.
In my free time, I love cooking, reading, and cheering on my favorite college sports and hockey teams. Travel is another passion of mine, and I embrace every opportunity to explore new places. Celebrating holidays with family and friends brings me immense joy, and I cherish these moments of connection and festivity.
I believe in the importance of building strong, supportive connections, especially during life’s transitions and uncertainties. My goal is to be a guiding presence for those I work with, helping them find stability and resilience in the face of change.
Hi, I’m Savannah. Growing up with a brother who was diagnosed with a chronic illness, I quickly s...
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Hi, I’m Candace!
I founded The Cultivate Community with the vision of creating a space where children and families can receive a variety of services under one roof. I saw the need for consistency and collaboration among professionals to better meet individual needs. My hope is to continue adding additional service offerings as The Cultivate Community grows. I am passionate about building a community where all are welcomed and supported.
My journey with music began at a very young age. Music has always been a part of my life, from choir and musical theater to band and voice. I discovered music therapy during my undergraduate studies, inspired by working with a child with cerebral palsy. This led me to pursue a master’s degree in music therapy.
Throughout my career, I have been humbled to witness the transformative power of music therapy. During my time as a pediatric music therapist, I had the opportunity to support so many incredible patients and families. Whether it was using music to help express feelings about a new diagnosis, songwriting to process anxiety and/or trauma, or providing bedside music during final moments of life, I’ve seen music hold space for a wide range of experiences. I am profoundly grateful that I get to use music in such an intentional way in my practice.
I believe in a person-centered approach, encouraging children and adolescents to tap into their resilience and sense of self. By fostering a supportive and nurturing environment, I aim to empower each individual to recognize their inherent strengths and capabilities. Through personalized strategies and compassionate guidance, I help them navigate challenges, build self-confidence, and develop a strong sense of autonomy. My goal is to inspire growth and healing, ensuring every child and adolescent feels valued and understood on their unique journey towards well-being.
In my free time, I enjoy the outdoors, board games, and spending time with my many animals. I also love traveling with my husband, reading, and catching Broadway shows. In addition to my clinical work, I also provide music therapy supervision for new professionals and resources for professionals, students, and families with my team at Music Therapy Made Simple. I look forward to connecting and supporting your child and family!
Hi, I’m Candace!
I founded The Cultivate Community with the vision of creating a space where chi...
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