Title: Research and fellowship director for the neurodevelopmental disabilities program at the Thompson Autism Center and director of the Fragile X Clinic; clinical associate professor at UC Irvine
Background: I am a pediatric neurologist with subspecialty training in neurodevelopmental disabilities and autism, board‑certified in both pediatric neurology and neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDD). My career has allowed me to develop national and international expertise in autism, fragile X syndrome, and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
I completed extensive postgraduate training, including pediatrics at the University at Buffalo and child neurology and neurodevelopmental disabilities at UT Southwestern, becoming one of a few NDD specialists in the country. Over the years, I’ve been honored with awards for academic excellence, research, and clinical leadership, and I’ve served as principal investigator on multiple autism and fragile X studies.
I’m passionate about advocacy and improving the lives of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities.
My leadership training at CHOC University and ongoing enrollment in the Alpha Clinic Clinical Trial Investigator Program reflect my commitment to bringing innovative therapies to the families I serve. I’m grateful for a career that combines clinical care, research, teaching, and advocacy — all centered around helping children reach their full potential.
Clinical interests: Autism, Fragile X Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, neurodevelopmental disabilities, genetic syndromes
Research interests: Autism, Fragile X Syndrome
Describe your role here and some of your goals.
I am part of a multidisciplinary team dedicated to providing comprehensive, evidence‑based, and neurodiversity‑affirming care for children with autism spectrum disorder and related neurodevelopmental conditions.
In my role, I conduct diagnostic evaluations and offer medical expertise in assessing and managing complex neurodevelopmental presentations. I also provide ongoing medical management for children with autism and co‑occurring neurological, developmental, or behavioral conditions and collaborate closely with psychologists, BCBAs, therapists, and social workers to design coordinated, individualized care plans.
I also teach medical students, residents and fellows and participate in research as an investigator in the field of autism and neurodevelopmental disabilities.
What do you hope to offer for patients, families and referring physicians in the community?
I hope to provide thoughtful, evidence‑based evaluations and medical guidance that support children with autism and neurodevelopmental disabilities in reaching their fullest potential. My goal is to empower families with clear next steps and compassionate support, while offering referring physicians a trusted partner in coordinated neurodevelopmental care.
What got you interested in medicine/healthcare and what led to your decision to join Rady Children’s Health?
I was drawn to medicine by a deep interest in child development and the chance to make a meaningful impact on children with autism and neurodevelopmental disabilities. I chose Rady Children’s Health because of its strong multidisciplinary approach and its commitment to compassionate, evidence‑based care. It’s a place where I can truly support families while continuing to grow as a clinician.
Name some key mentors and/or describe your philosophy as a physician and/or leader/manager.
I’ve been fortunate to be guided by several outstanding mentors throughout my career at Rady Children’s Health. Dr. Jonathan Megerian, whose leadership and commitment to high‑quality neurodevelopmental care deeply influenced my clinical approach, taught me the value of thoughtful, team‑based decision‑making. Dr. Coleen Cunningham and Debbie Moysychyn, through the Physician Leadership Certificate Training Program, helped me grow as a leader by emphasizing communication, self‑reflection, and collaborative problem‑solving.
Together, these mentors shaped my philosophy: to lead with empathy, communicate openly, and create a supportive environment where families feel heard and where teams can work together to deliver the best possible care.
Any personal details you’d like to share?
In my free time, I love baking, traveling and dance (Bollywood, Zumba) and finding moments to simply relax. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and often share homemade treats with friends, colleagues, and trainees.
I find creative energy through movement — whether it’s learning new choreography or exploring diverse cultures through travel.
These are the things that recharge me and keep me connected to joy outside of medicine.
