I have extensive experience working with special needs children. Since 2008, I have worked as a Therapeutic Support Specialist through two mental health agencies. I worked one on one with children in the school setting and the home setting. I have experience interacting with children who have been diagnosed with autism, asperger's, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, PDD, ADHD, anxiety disorder and depression. The specific ages that I have had the most experience working with ranged from 4-14. In 2011 I returned to school at the University of Pittsburgh to receive my master's in social work. As a master's level grad student I interned through out the year as a therapist at a residential facility in the Pittsburgh area. This experience only extended my experience working with children with special needs but also expanded my passion and understanding for children with special needs and their families. I care very much about the children that I work with and work hard to make sure that their needs are met. In my time spent with children I gave engaged in activities such as going to the park, going to the YMCA to swim, taking walks, playing sports/games outside.