I was inspired by my play therapy supervisor who held time in her week for pro bono work. I wanted a way to give to others as part of giving to myself.

You get so much from giving to a family who has experienced foster care and adoption. There are so many opportunities to receive as well, including being connected to the A Home Within Community, free continuing education opportunities, and chances to network with other providers.

A Home Within can be very flexible in service delivery. Caregivers can also access therapeutic supports as well as children and youth.

I think every agency connected to child and family services in my state and other states should know about A Home Within and assist with recruiting providers. I think the government should give incentives like reduction in license fees for folks who volunteer.

That it is all about giving and volunteering. There is no pressure to produce and you can really do what is right.

A Home Within has allowed me a chance to reflect on why I do this work and why I have received advanced training in supporting children and families as a registered play therapist™.

I enjoy training educators and caregivers as well as mental health providers about simple ways to make a huge difference in the lives of kids. I train others on building relationship to promote good mental health as well as understanding symbolic play, play therapy, working with kids with disabilities, and measuring progress.