Supporting Neurodivergent Children in ECE

As a passionate contributor in the child disabilities and mental health sectors for the past 25 years in both the US and New Zealand, Tami is determined to achieve equity for all children in need of support. She’s proud that the model that guides Acorn is the gold standard internationally.

Tami is a registered psychotherapist. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Michigan, a Master’s Degree in clinical social work from the University of Chicago and a Post Graduate Certificate in Inclusive Education from the University of Auckland.   

Tami has thirty years of experience managing non-profit organisations and programmes, providing parent guidance, child and family therapy, and school consultation specialising in autism, ADHD, anxiety, trauma and learning disabilities. Tami has worked in foster care, special education, early intervention and community mental health in the United States and New Zealand in a variety of leadership and direct service roles. Additionally, she is a professional development facilitator for the Ministry of Education through Tātai Aho Rau Core Education, specialising in inclusion, social/ emotional learning and trauma-informed practice. 

Tami has three lively neurodivergent children who keep her on her toes and remind her to keep pushing for an equitable Aotearoa.