Barbara earned her Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Sciences from the University of Texas at Austin. Barbara then went onto the University of North Texas (UNT) to earn a Master’s Degree in Counseling. Barbara was trained in play and filial therapy at UNT. Barbara has completed specialized training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders through Postpartum Support International (PSI) and is Perinatal Mental Health Certified (PMH-C). Barbara uses components of ACT, CBT and DBT in therapy.

Barbara has worked in various settings including community mental health at the Collin County Children’s Advocacy Center, inpatient psychiatric unit for mental health at Children’s Health Dallas, inpatient and outpatient eating disorders at Children’s Health Legacy, residential care for eating disorders at Center for Discovery and is now the founder and owner of It Takes A Village Counseling and Wellness. During that time, she worked with children, adolescents, adults, and their families during times of crisis and throughout their treatment journey.

As a BIPOC clinician, she understands there may be unique challenges with BIPOC clients who may be struggling with culture, identity, communication, and intergenerational conflict. These factors can impact your own mental health and relationship with others.

As a new mother, Barbara also struggled to navigate the changes that parenthood presented, including processing complicated feelings and feeling it was ok to ask for help. Barbara has worked with individuals on the journey to become or are new parents. This includes those struggling with infertility, pregnancy and postpartum periods.

Through her time spent working with the clients and families in various settings, Barbara found her passion for helping others and providing education to help build better understanding and compassion for people as they navigate life’s challenges.