Chief Executive Officer,
Nurturing Families Center
As the owner and CEO of Praxis with Integrity Consulting PLLC, Sonya serves as the Executive Director of the Nurturing Families Center. She partners with nonprofits and government agencies to assess and improve systems for children, youth, and families. An internationally recognized trainer, author, and social entrepreneur, Ms. Thorn has written eleven trauma-informed Nurturing Families™ Manuals and leads efforts to integrate clinical and community-based approaches to family support.
Over her 12 years at Texas State University, she secured over $2 million in external grant funding and directed major initiatives such as Casa Esperanza and Upward Bound, supporting vulnerable youth and families. She has designed and managed numerous large-scale projects for departments of Mental Health and Child Protective Services across Texas, California, Tennessee, Illinois, Missouri, North Dakota, Bermuda, and Japan. Her work includes system reforms, capacity-building, and leadership coaching.
Ms. Thorn has also served as an executive coach and program evaluator for Eva Longoria’s nonprofit in San Antonio. As one of 21 Rockefeller Fellows for the Barat Education Foundation, she led national university forums focused on race, class, gender, and social inequality.
She holds a BSW from Southwest Texas State University, a Master’s in Social Work, and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) from Our Lady of the Lake University. Currently a doctoral student at Baylor University, Ms. Thorn continues to advance equity-driven, trauma-informed systems change. She resides in San Marcos, Texas.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Barbara is a seasoned clinical social worker and passionate advocate for Nurturing Families. A certified Nurturing Program trainer in Texas since 2001, Barbara specializes in small-group training, focusing on supporting professionals who are launching or expanding Nurturing Parenting Programs. With a warm and accessible style, she has facilitated and coordinated these programs for over two decades, seamlessly weaving the Nurturing philosophy into her work as a therapist.
In her private practice, Barbara works with children, adolescents, adults, and families, using trauma-informed, strengths-based approaches rooted in nurturing relationships. Her clinical experience spans more than 40 years and includes work in domestic violence, substance abuse, foster and adoptive care, early childhood intervention, chronic illness, mental health, grief and loss, separation and divorce, and child abuse prevention.
Barbara earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from Texas State University in San Marcos, where she continues to give back by teaching field classes to future social workers. She is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of helping professionals.
Barbara lives in Bastrop, Texas, with her husband and is the proud mother of five children and grandmother to seven. Whether through clinical work, training, or teaching, she remains dedicated to helping families heal, connect, and thrive.
Research Analyst, Praxis with Integrity
Kristin serves as the Senior Research Analyst for Praxis with Integrity and the Family Nurturing Center of Texas (FNC-TX). With advanced degrees in Business and Organizational Leadership and a specialization in research and data analysis, Dr. Grayson plays a vital role in helping agencies evaluate the effectiveness of their Nurturing Parenting Programs. She guides service providers in using the Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory (AAPI) to assess parent outcomes, track progress, and develop strategic recommendations for continued success.
Dr. Grayson is known for delivering high-quality training, professional development, and technical assistance with a strong multicultural lens. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences—both individually and in group settings—makes her an invaluable asset in teaching others how to interpret, evaluate, and apply data meaningfully. Her expertise ensures agencies are well-equipped to report impactful outcomes to stakeholders, funders, and families using validated, reliable tools.
Her academic background includes an MBA and PhD in Organizational Leadership from Our Lady of the Lake University (San Antonio), a Master’s in Multicultural Education from Oklahoma, and a Bachelor’s in Spanish and Sociology from Minnesota. Bilingual in Spanish, Dr. Grayson brings over 20 years of experience in project evaluation, human relations, and professional development.
Previously, she worked with the IDRA Equity Assistance Center, helping school systems resolve equity issues in collaboration with the Office for Civil Rights and the Department of Justice.
Outside of her professional work, Dr. Grayson dedicates her time to medical missions and humanitarian efforts in Guatemala and San Antonio, serving children, immigrants, and asylum seekers with compassion and care.
In her private practice, Barbara works with children, adolescents, adults, and families, using trauma-informed, strengths-based approaches rooted in nurturing relationships. Her clinical experience spans more than 40 years and includes work in domestic violence, substance abuse, foster and adoptive care, early childhood intervention, chronic illness, mental health, grief and loss, separation and divorce, and child abuse prevention.
Barbara earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from Texas State University in San Marcos, where she continues to give back by teaching field classes to future social workers. She is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of helping professionals.
Barbara lives in Bastrop, Texas, with her husband and is the proud mother of five children and grandmother to seven. Whether through clinical work, training, or teaching, she remains dedicated to helping families heal, connect, and thrive.
Co-Founder and Director of Education, Nurturing Diversity Partners
Fran has dedicated her fifty-year career to advancing social justice, peace, and equity both nationally and internationally. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and a Master of Social Work degree.
Dr. Kaplan is an experienced adult educator, social worker, and community organizer, with a career spanning farmworker rights, women’s healthcare, parenting education, child protection, and public history. She has served as an executive, program, and training director, and is also a published author and award-winning filmmaker. She developed Nurturing Parenting Program manuals and Crianza Con Cariño materials for Spanish-speaking families.
From 2010 to 2017, Dr. Kaplan played a key role in the Dr. James Cameron Legacy Foundation, helping to relaunch America’s Black Holocaust Museum, including its virtual (online) museum, public programs, and interracial dialogues. She also co-founded the Foundation’s publishing arm, LifeWrites Press.
In 2017, she and colleague Reggie Jackson co-founded Nurturing Diversity Partners, offering education and consulting services that promote inclusion, empathy, and equity in institutions and communities.
Dr. Kaplan has received numerous accolades, including the 1992 Social Worker of the Year, the 1998 Promoting Racial Harmony Award, and the 2016 Eliminating Racism Award from YWCA Southeast Wisconsin. On her 70th birthday, she was honored in the U.S. Congressional Record.
In 2018, Dr. Kaplan and Reggie Jackson received the Friebert Social Justice Award for their outstanding contributions to equity and justice.
Criando Familias Trainer; Fidelity Implementation Specialist
Born in Gilroy, California, Mary spent much of her early childhood in the agricultural communities of Hollister and Salinas, where she lived on labor camps alongside her four siblings. The daughter of Mexican migrant workers, Mary’s upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for hard work, resilience, and family. At age 12, her family relocated to South Texas to be closer to relatives, and she now proudly calls Peñitas/Mission home.
With over 27 years of experience in business operations and management across university, school district, and legal environments, Mary brings a wealth of knowledge and heart to her work. She currently serves as Business Manager, bilingual Crianza con Cariño facilitator, and Fidelity Implementation Specialist at the Family Nurturing Center of Texas (FNC-TX).
Mary was introduced to the Nurturing Program in 2003 while at Texas State University and has since become a passionate advocate for its philosophy, which she sees as a natural extension of who she is. Her commitment to Nurturing Families has shaped her professional journey ever since.
In addition to her work in social services, Mary is also a certified paralegal and a pastry chef, having graduated from the Art Institute of San Antonio. She is especially passionate about child welfare and the intersection of the legal system and family dynamics.
Mary is the proud mother of three amazing children—Ashley, Mario, and Anai—and a joyful “Gammy” to five beautiful grandchildren. Her life’s mission is to uplift others on the path to healing and healthy family living.
Adult Education Program Director, Community Action, Inc.
Mary Helen brings over 30 years of comprehensive experience in the education sector, including expertise in adult education, workforce development, college readiness, and teaching within both university and community college settings. Currently, she serves as the Adult Education Program Director at Community Action, Inc. of Central Texas. In this role, she oversees the coordination and delivery of literacy and career development services across nine counties. Her work involves strategic collaboration with the Texas Workforce Commission, various agency partners, the Community Action leadership team, and other key stakeholders to ensure program effectiveness.
Prior to her current role, Dr. Martinez served as the Director of College & Career Readiness at the Alamo Colleges District, where she worked closely with faculty and staff to coordinate district-wide student success initiatives. Her responsibilities included working with Math and English department chairs in designing student placement, multiple measures, and corequisite coursework. Responsibilities also included working with testing centers for compliance in the implementation of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI).
With an extensive background in learning support for adult learners, developmental education, training and development, Dr. Martinez is deeply committed to improving systems that promote equitable access and facilitate student success. Her work emphasizes enhancing academic skills while fostering essential life skills that lead to economic self-sufficiency.
Dr. Martinez holds a Master of Arts in Developmental and Adult Education and a Doctor of Education in Postsecondary Student Success with an emphasis on Learning Support from Texas State University.
Founder, Presswood Resolutions, PLLC Associate Attorney, McGirr Law, P.C.
Jessica is the founder of Presswood Resolutions, PLLC and a passionate advocate for healthier co-parenting. Based in Round Rock, Texas, she lives with her husband Jeff, their three children—Ava, Tavan, and Maggie—and two dogs, Titan and Ace.
With a background in law and personal experience navigating high-conflict co-parenting, Jessica brings a unique blend of professional expertise and lived empathy to her work. As a parent coordinator and facilitator, she helps families reduce conflict, protect emotional well-being, and create stable, supportive environments for children. Her mission is to empower parents with tools—not just legal solutions—to communicate effectively and minimize emotional strain on their families.
Frustrated by the toll litigation takes on families, Jessica transitioned from corporate law to family-focused practice. She now also serves as an associate attorney at McGirr Law, P.C., handling family law and civil litigation.
Jessica earned her Juris Doctor from Hamline University School of Law in 2006 and holds a B.S., cum laude, from Northern Arizona University. She’s licensed in Texas and Arizona, and admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona.
Certified in Advanced Family Law Mediation and Basic Mediation through Mediators of Texas, Jessica is also a certified Parent Coordinator and Parent Facilitator through the Family Nurturing Center of Texas. She is a member of the Texas Association of Mediators, Austin Association of Mediators, and the Williamson County Bar Association.
Fatherhood Program Specialist, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services
Kenneth is a passionate advocate for children and fathers, bringing a wealth of experience from the public and nonprofit sectors. He currently serves as the first-ever Fatherhood Program Specialist for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Division for Practice Excellence. With a background as a parent educator, mentor, facilitator, and former talk show host of “The Dad Show”, Kenneth is known for his ability to connect, uplift, and empower fathers.
He previously led the All American Mentoring Project, focused on youth from single-parent, low-income households, and facilitated “Focus on Fathers,” a program designed to strengthen father-child relationships. A trailblazer in education, Kenneth was the first African American elected to political office in Pflugerville, serving as Board President of the Pflugerville ISD and Vice President of the Texas Caucus of Black School Board Members.
Kenneth has served in numerous leadership roles, including Vice Chair of Austin’s Disproportionality Advisory Committee, Director of the East Austin Youth Foundation, and Board Chair of A New Entry, LLC, supporting formerly incarcerated men. He has also served on the boards of Parenting Across Color, The Overton Group, and the Travis County Family Courthouse Community Advisory Board.
Currently, Kenneth chairs the Austin African American Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission. A proud lifelong Austinite, he is a graduate of Southwest Institute of Technology. Kenneth is married to Alisha, and they are the proud parents of Kenneth Jr., a Texas Christian University graduate.
Executive Assistant
Kara is the Executive Assistant at the Nurturing Families Center, where she utilizes her Master of Arts in Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies to streamline operations, enhance communication, and strengthen partnerships with agencies and facilitators alike.
In many ways, Kara serves as the chief operating officer of Nurturing Families, providing comprehensive support to Sonya and the organization’s leadership. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and their beloved pets.
Head of IT
Jason is an accomplished technology and operations leader with over two decades of experience spanning public safety, information technology, and organizational leadership. He currently serves as a System Administrator IV for the Texas Department of Public Safety, where he oversees complex IT systems supporting critical state operations in addition to his work behind-the-scenes at the Nurturing Families Center.
Throughout his career, he has led large-scale technology implementations, developed innovative IT solutions, and managed operations for organizations across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Jason’s expertise includes network security, IT infrastructure, process optimization, and customer-focused technology solutions, with a proven track record of enhancing operational efficiency and driving organizational growth.
Marketing / Support Staff
Katherine is a creative and dedicated professional with experience in marketing, communications, design, and organizational support. In my role, Katherine specialize in creating flyers, managing communications, and developing materials that are clear, engaging, and visually impactful.
Fluent in both Spanish and English, she enjoys connecting with diverse communities and making information accessible and meaningful.
Beyond her professional life, Katherine is a proud mom, wife, and lifelong animal lover. Her family and passion for animals inspire the way she approaches both work and life with care, empathy, and a strong sense of responsibility. Her goal is to continue growing both personally and professionally while contributing her skills to meaningful projects that bring people together and create a lasting positive impact.
Nurturing Families Certified Facilitator and Fidelity Specialist
Adrienne is a Fidelity Implementation Specialist with Nurturing Families Center. With a strong background in behavioral health, healthcare, and substance use services, Adrienne has dedicated her career to supporting families through challenging times and promoting long-term wellness.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their two boxers.
Web and Graphic Designer
Margot began her career in the nonprofit sector as Director and Program Specialist at CG Victory, where she developed college students to serve and prepare for the workforce while creating programs for youth that fostered physical activity, fitness, and personal growth through faith-based initiatives.
She later transitioned into business development and enterprise sales, building partnerships and optimizing operations across industries. Today, as a GTM Leader in the AI security space, Margot combines her experience in leadership, strategy, and partnership development to drive growth and impact in the tech sector.
Program Facilitator & Trainer, Moses House Ministries & Nurturing Families Center
Born and raised in Southern California, Bertha’s upbringing was deeply rooted in rich Mexican culture alongside her father, mother, and two younger sisters. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with a minor in Spanish Studies, followed by a Master of Arts in Education and a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. Bertha dedicated 12 years to teaching in the public school system before becoming a proud mom to her son, Israel, in 2010.
Choosing to focus on motherhood, Bertha stepped away from the classroom but soon found a new path when life led her to Moses House Ministries. There, she discovered the Nurturing Families™ Program—a transformative experience that inspired her to become a Facilitator. Today, she not only facilitates but also trains others for the Nurturing Families Center.
Bertha’s passion for helping children thrive has found new purpose in the nonprofit world. Through Nurturing Families, she impacts entire family systems, going beyond the classroom to foster lasting change. Her work empowers families to grow and transform, creating a better world for her son Israel and countless children.
With warmth and dedication, Bertha embraces her role as a catalyst for extraordinary family transformation—helping parents and children alike build stronger, healthier, and more nurturing lives.
Founder, Tears of Joy Counseling
Claudia is the founder of Tears of Joy Counseling and a dedicated wife, mom, and stepmom. Licensed since 2014, she specializes in treating anxiety, OCD, trauma, and grief, using evidence-based practices like EMDR and ERP, while incorporating faith-based principles. Claudia has been a Nurturing Families Trainer since 2017.
She is passionate about her work with Tears of Joy Counseling and a dedicated wife, mom, and stepmom. Claudia partners with the 10-20 Club to lead Nurturing Families classes, guiding parents and teens toward deeper relationships, empathy, and positive choices. She is passionate about Nurturing Families and continues empowering and uplifting the community.
Legacy Senior Director of Training and Special Projects, ECI of North Central Texas
Debbie brings extensive leadership experience from her role as Senior Director of Training and Special Projects at ECI of North Central Texas, where she successfully trained over 300 employees. She played a key role in recruiting talent and building strong partnerships with universities, strengthening the pipeline of skilled professionals.
Debbie also contributed to impactful special initiatives, including the NICU program, the HOPES project, and the LAUNCH program in Fort Worth, TX.
A passionate advocate for family and community well-being, Debbie is a proud supporter of the Nurturing Families Intervention. Her dedication to enhancing early childhood development and family support services continues to drive meaningful change and foster stronger communities.
Bilingual Health Educator, Tehama County Behavioral Health
Fernando is an Agency Trainer for Tehama County Health Services Agency. At the moment I have trained 4 of our staff in our Substance Use and Recovery Division.
His vision is to continue offering the classes in the local rural communities and to train other staff to keep Nurturing Families going strong in our communities. As a Bilingual Trainer, Fernando offers classes for parents in both Spanish and English, virtually and in-person.
Master Trainer/Consultant for the Nurturing Fathers Program, The Mom and Dad Project
In March 2014, Jeff joined The Mom & Dad Project, a Parenting Education & Resource Center in Big Bear Lake, CA. As the Nurturing Families Program Manager, He provides support to staff and clients in their Nurturing Programs and facilitates classes for the wonderful moms and dads in the community. He loves to see anyone raising a child receive the support they deserve in order to become effective and nurturing leaders of their family. Jeff previously served faith-based non-profits for 28 years. “Strong families build strong communities!”
Two things you should know about Jeff are: He loves to help whenever he can (He believes that serving others is the path to greatness) and his love for people, desiring each individual to reach their maximum potential.
The best piece of advice he’s ever received is “you can learn a lot simply by paying attention”.
Behavioral Specialist / Community Advocate
Born and raised in Eagle Pass, Texas, Jose’s early experiences as a migrant worker have profoundly shaped his dedication to empowering others and making a meaningful difference. Now residing in Eagle Pass with his family, Jose channels his passion into serving his community with compassion and purpose.
Jose holds a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science from Texas A&M University–Kingsville and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Counseling. His professional journey spans work with juvenile probation, local mental health agencies, and volunteer efforts with organizations such as Mission Border Hope, Boys & Girls Club, Kidz Club, and Camas Para Niños—providing vital support to families most in need across Southwest Texas.
In the social services field, Jose has made a significant impact through the implementation of wraparound services and the Nurturing Families program, helping create stronger, healthier family systems.
Parent Support Program Manager, MCCS Okinawa
Joy serves as the New Parent Support Program (NPSP) Manager at MCCS Okinawa, where she leads a dedicated team providing education and support to expectant parents and families with children under six. With a background as a nurse in the Philippines, Joy’s passion for assisting families led her to the NPSP, where she has made a significant impact over the past decade.
Under her leadership, the NPSP offers a range of services, including home visits, classes, and support groups, to promote positive parent-child bonding and assist families in balancing military and family life. Joy emphasizes the importance of prevention, quoting Ezra Taft Benson: “It is better to prepare and prevent than it is to repair and repent.”
Her personal experience as a mother of four and a spouse to a retired Navy submariner, who served for 20 years and completed 22 deployments, enriches her understanding of the challenges military families face. Joy’s commitment to empowering families ensures they have the tools and resources to thrive in their parenting journey.
Facilitator & Family Peer Advocate, Child & Family Services of Buffalo, NY
Juliet is a certified Nurturing Families Program (NFP) Facilitator and NFP Trainer of Trainers (TOT), currently serving as an In-Home Mental Health Counselor and Credentialed Family Peer Advocate at Child & Family Services of Buffalo, NY.
Since 2020, Juliet has delivered the Nurturing Families Program to parents across New York State through the Children and Family Treatment and Support Services (CFTSS) and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) programs. Her compassionate and hands-on approach also includes providing Clinical Psychosocial Therapy (CPST) to children, as well as support through Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Planned Respite services.
A passionate advocate for mental health and family empowerment, Juliet draws on both professional training and lived experience to uplift the families she works with. Outside of her professional life, she’s a proud mother of two adult daughters. She finds joy in writing, reading, crocheting, and keeping her mind sharp with a competitive game of Words With Friends.
Program Manager, Travis County Family First – Office of Children’s Services
Karolyn “Karrie” serves as the Program Manager for Travis County Family First, where she brings over a decade of dedication to children and family well-being. A proud graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, Karrie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Psychology. Her professional journey began at Child Protective Services, where she spent five years working in various roles supporting vulnerable families across Texas.
In 2014, Karrie became a certified facilitator of the Nurturing Families curriculum, a program that aligned perfectly with her belief in holistic, strengths-based family engagement. Her commitment to the model led her to become a Certified Trainer in 2020, equipping other professionals with tools to support and empower parents.
Karrie’s leadership at the Travis County Office of Children’s Services reflects her passion for prevention, connection, and lasting impact. Her heart, however, is always with her family. She and her husband are the proud parents of six children, and you can often find her cheering them on from the sidelines or shuttling between school events, games, and performances.
Founder & CEO, Giving 365
Kimberly “Kim” was born in Chicago and obtained her bachelor’s degree from Milliken University in Decatur, IL., Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership from Biola University and her Doctor of Ministry from California Graduate School of Theology in Garden Grove, CA.
Kim is a Teacher, Speaker, Mentor, Relationship Strategist, and Author.
Her greatest accomplishment is being mom to her adult son Jordan’s. She’s a /Friend, Wedding Coordinator, a member of the Clergy and an entrepreneur. Dr. Kim’s always bridged the gap between people and brought out the best in them.
It is Dr. Kim’s heart that led her to nonprofit work.
She is the former Program Director of Community Programs at Walden Family Services in San Bernardino. Dr. Kim is a trainer for both Nurturing Families and Trauma Informed Systems in San Bernardino County of Southern California. In addition, a trainer for Zero to Three’s Critical Competencies and The Growing Brain.
She is the Founder/CEO of Giving 365, Inc., a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization that wraps its arms and hearts around children and families who are hungry and in need of assistance. She champions the underdog to ensure these less fortunate are seen and heard. She is passionate about providing necessities to help them grow into productive people while building up the families around them. She believes given the opportunity and tools everyone can heal and thrive.
Dr. Kim loves supporting people to reach their full potential and all she does allows her to live her passion!
Family Peer Advocate, Child & Family Services of Buffalo, NY
Leilani has served as a Family Peer Advocate with Child & Family Services of Buffalo for over five years, bringing compassion, lived experience, and deep commitment to families navigating their children’s mental health challenges.
Her journey into this field wasn’t planned—after nearly a decade working in developmental disability services, Leilani knew she needed a change, even if she didn’t yet know what it was. That change arrived when she discovered family peer advocacy, and she hit the ground running. In this work, she found her purpose: walking alongside parents, helping them feel seen, heard, and supported.
Leilani helps caregivers explore new parenting strategies, understand their children’s behaviors, and become confident advocates. As a mother of seven—including children with mental health and learning needs—she draws on personal experience to offer empathy and real-world solutions. Her greatest reward is not only supporting others through tough times but also healing herself through the shared strength and resilience of the families she serves.
Today, Leilani is that steady voice reminding parents: you are not alone, and you have what it takes.
Pastor & Community Engagement Manager, Mount Calvary C.M.E. Church and Truly Valued Inc.
Leslie is a powerful force of resilience and inspiration, using her personal journey to empower others to find and live their purpose. As a wife, mother, and grandmother, she embodies strength and hope, having overcome profound challenges including drug addiction and human trafficking. Refusing to be defined by her past, Leslie is a survivor and a beacon of transformation.
Ordained as a Deacon in the Christian Methodist Episcopal (C.M.E.) Church in 2005, she currently serves as Pastor of Mount Calvary C.M.E. Church in Lake Wales. Leslie’s leadership extends to her role as former Evangelism Coordinator for the South Florida District of the Fifth Episcopal District. She is deeply involved in community engagement, serving on the Sarasota County Community Response Team and partnering with law enforcement through the Youth Empowerment Services (YES) Program with the Sarasota Police Department.
As the Community Engagement Manager for Truly Valued Inc., Leslie empowers youth and families to embrace their worth, fostering character, confidence, and self-esteem. She is also a Certified Parent Support Facilitator and trainer with the Nurturing Families Program.
Leslie holds a Bachelor’s in Theology, a Master’s in Peace and Social Justice, and recently earned her Doctorate in Strategic Leadership from Regent University. Her doctoral research focused on “Intergenerational Bridges of Leadership Development in the Black Church.” Through her pastoral and community work, Leslie continues to make a lasting impact—transforming lives and enriching families with hope and empowerment.
Nurturing Families Agency Trainer, The Harris Center
Mavis is a certified Nurturing Families Trainer. She holds certifications in both Nurturing Families and Nurturing Parenting, which have equipped her with the skills to support families in a variety of settings. Currently,she serves as the agency trainer for the Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD. In this position, She serves as both the Nurturing Parenting Agency Trainer and the Nurturing Parenting Facilitator for the YES Waiver program. She trains and supports families and staff to implement nurturing parenting practices effectively. Her journey in this field began with her first certification in Nurturing Parenting. Driven by the goal to enhance her skills and broaden her influence, I obtained an extra certification in Nurturing Families.
This progression has allowed her to develop a comprehensive understanding of both programs and apply them effectively in her work. Over the past eleven years, Mavis has worked extensively with families, helping them enhance their parenting skills. Her focus has been on reducing household stress, promoting positive communication, and nurturing behaviors. Through these efforts, families have learned to apply improved techniques that foster healthier relationships and a supportive environment. Nurturing Families is an evidence-based program dedicated to helping families grow and thrive. The program’s reach is expanding, and she is proud to contribute to its growth by sharing its knowledge and principles with others. Mavis’ commitment to this work stems from a genuine passion for empowering families and supporting their development.
Criando Familias Trainer; Fidelity Implementation Specialist
Born in Gilroy, California, Mary spent much of her early childhood in the agricultural communities of Hollister and Salinas, where she lived on labor camps alongside her four siblings. The daughter of Mexican migrant workers, Mary’s upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for hard work, resilience, and family. At age 12, her family relocated to South Texas to be closer to relatives, and she now proudly calls Peñitas/Mission home.
With over 27 years of experience in business operations and management across university, school district, and legal environments, Mary brings a wealth of knowledge and heart to her work. She currently serves as Business Manager, bilingual Crianza con Cariño facilitator, and Fidelity Implementation Specialist at the Family Nurturing Center of Texas (FNC-TX).
Mary was introduced to the Nurturing Program in 2003 while at Texas State University and has since become a passionate advocate for its philosophy, which she sees as a natural extension of who she is. Her commitment to nurturing families has shaped her professional journey ever since.
In addition to her work in social services, Mary is also a certified paralegal and a pastry chef, having graduated from the Art Institute of San Antonio. She is especially passionate about child welfare and the intersection of the legal system and family dynamics.
Mary is the proud mother of three amazing children—Ashley, Mario, and Anai—and a joyful “Gammy” to five beautiful grandchildren. Her life’s mission is to uplift others on the path to healing and healthy family living.
Nurturing Families Trainer/Consultant
Born and raised in South Los Angeles, California, Mayra is a proud first-generation college graduate, daughter of Mexican immigrants, and mother, wife, and sister. She holds a Master of Arts in Child and Adolescent Psychology, and her lived, academic, and professional experiences fuel her passion for equity and accessibility in community services.
For over 17 years, Mayra has served at Para Los Niños in multiple capacities and currently leads as Program Coordinator for the Prevention and Aftercare Program. In this role, she oversees five state block grants and manages a dedicated team of Case Managers, Facilitators, and Community Promoters.
In addition to her leadership work, Mayra has served as a national trainer and consultant for more than a decade, training over 200 professionals, from paraprofessionals and students to licensed mental health clinicians across numerous agencies in Los Angeles County, throughout the United States, and in Canada.
Mayra is an Individual and Community-Level Trainer in Brazelton Touchpoints and holds an Advanced Endorsement as a Transdisciplinary Infant-Family and Early Childhood Mental Health Practitioner from the California Center for Infant-Family and Early Childhood Mental Health
Maternal Health Coordinator, The Mom & Dad Project
Nichole serves as the Maternal Health Coordinator at The Mom & Dad Project, where she has supported families with compassion and expertise for the past 13 years. With a degree in Psychology, she is a Certified Childbirth Educator, Certified Lactation Educator, and a certified Facilitator and Trainer of the Nurturing Families Program.
Nichole is deeply committed to ensuring that mothers and families receive the care, support, and education they need to thrive. Her passion lies in walking alongside parents at the beginning of their parenting journey—helping them navigate the developmental stages of their children with confidence and connection.
Her work is rooted in the belief that every parent deserves to be supported with dignity, empathy, and evidence-based tools. Whether she’s teaching, coaching, or simply listening, Nichole brings warmth and heart to every interaction.
A proud mother of four, Nichole has always known that nurturing others was part of her calling. When she’s not working with families, you’ll likely find her in the kitchen cooking up something delicious—or behind a karaoke mic, singing her heart out.
One of her favorite quotes sums up her mission:
“Parenting is the easiest thing in the world to have an opinion about, but the hardest thing in the world to do.” – Matt Walsh
Through her work, Nichole aims to make that journey just a little easier for every family she meets.
Manager of Home and Community Support Services, Child & Family Services of Buffalo, NY
Prior to her current position at Child Family Services of Buffalo New York, Sara has worked as an Individual Care Coordinator and been the Assistant Director of the Children’s Home and Community Based Waiver Program and has even supervised the ICM Wraparound Program for 6 months. Sara has a master’s degree in Counselor Education, was certified in School Counseling and is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. She has over 20 years of experience in the field of Mental Health and at least 6 years of those years were with those with co-occurring substance abuse and mental health diagnoses. Her areas of expertise are with children who are diagnosed with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, schizoaffective disorder, and borderline personality disorder, although she works well with all children and family members with differing diagnoses. She speaks basic Hungarian.
Some of her hobbies and interests include theatre, dance, snowboarding, skiing, festivals, traveling, cooking, music, singing, reading, arts and crafts, training for 5Ks, 10ks, half marathons and duathlons. Being a part of the Nurturing Families Program has been a game changer and was the missing link, it has changed how she looks and families and how she provides services.
Clinical Supervisor, Penny Lane Centers
Shannon is a seasoned behavioral health professional with more than 19 years of experience at Penny Lane Centers in Lancaster, California. She currently serves as a Clinical Manager, a role she has held since 2017, where she provides leadership, oversight, and clinical guidance to multidisciplinary teams delivering high-quality services to children and families.
Throughout her tenure at Penny Lane Centers, Shannon has advanced through a range of leadership positions, including Assistant Regional Manager, Intensive Treatment Foster Care Clinical Supervisor, and In-Home Outreach Counselor/Up Front Assessor.
Coordinator of Training & Development, CCNY, Inc.
Sherry has been a dedicated leader in the Erie County Children’s System of Care since 1992, serving in a wide range of roles that reflect her deep commitment to youth and family well-being. Over the years, she has worked as a Behavioral Specialist in residential education, a Recreational Specialist for children in care, a High Fidelity Wraparound Care Coordinator, and a Health Homes Care Manager.
Since 2017, Sherry has served as the Coordinator of Training & Development at CCNY, Inc., where she plays a vital role in shaping and supporting the professional development of service providers across the system. Her extensive background aligns seamlessly with her work in the Nurturing Families Program, where she is a certified Trainer of Trainers.
While her current training role prevents her from working directly with at-risk families, Sherry ensures program fidelity by analyzing implementation data and reviewing facilitator progress notes. She’s also currently collaborating with fellow trainer Sonya to further refine their training delivery, with an eye toward expanding statewide training efforts in New York.
Sherry’s expertise, long-standing dedication, and behind-the-scenes impact help elevate the quality of care and support families receive. Her career is a testament to the power of consistency, compassion, and a systems-level approach to making a difference.
Founder & Director, Helping Hands Nurturing Center
Shona is the Founder and Director of Helping Hands Nurturing Center, based in the heart of Nevada County. With over 20 years of experience working with families and children, Shona has built a career grounded in advocacy, healing, and transformation.
She began her professional journey in family and dependency law, where she served for 14 years before transitioning to Child Protective Services for another 7 years. In 2014, Shona followed her passion and launched Helping Hands Nurturing Center—a safe, supportive space dedicated to breaking intergenerational cycles through family-centered services rooted in the Nurturing Families curriculum.
Since founding the center, Shona has partnered with CPS, Family and Criminal Courts, Probation, Superintendents of Schools, Family Resource Centers, and the Nevada County Crisis Unit. Her work reflects a holistic, community-connected approach to empowering families and promoting lasting change.
Known for her warm spirit and positive outlook, Shona brings compassion, clarity, and strength to every family she serves. She sees the silver lining in every situation and the potential in every person, embodying the nurturing values she teaches.
Her life and work are both testaments to the transformative power of empathy and intentional care. Through Helping Hands, Shona continues to inspire others to embrace the enriching lifestyle that the Nurturing Families program fosters.
