In recent years, Jill’s worked towards a new phase in her career, focusing on psychology and how she could help children who can benefit from her support. Jill received a minor in psychology from the University of Kansas in 2022 and at some point in the future, is considering working towards a masters degree.
In January of 2023, Jill began volunteering during equine therapy sessions at a stable in Morton Grove Illinois. Jill grew up riding horses and with her interest in psychology, thought she’d be a good fit to assist in equine therapy. It’s here she discovered her passion for being part of a child’s progress and realized it was the most meaningful thing she’s done in her life. Jill has acquired over 250 hours of experience working side by side with an occupational therapist, effectively helping autistic children. Through a peer at the stables who is a BCBA, she learned about ABA therapists, and decided to pursue certification, becoming an RBT in 2023. Jill continues to volunteer at this stable, and can be found there every Sunday afternoon.
Also in 2023 Jill led and taught art classes for an after-school program consisting of over twenty children, ages kindergarten through fifth grade, at Decatur Classical Elementary School.
Since joining SBS, Jill has acquired experience as an RBT in a schood environment, and continues to conduct in-home sessions as well.
Before 2022, Jill spent 20+ years in the apparel industry, designing clothing and managing junior designers for brands such as Adidas, Nike and Under Armour. After getting her bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Kansas, she moved to San Francisco and attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, graduating summa cum laude.
Fun fact – Jill’s practiced yoga for over 25 years, from Bikram to Baptiste and her main goal everyday is to get outside and enjoy nature. She loves hiking and horseback riding and plans vacations around what can be enjoyed outdoors… her favorite being whitewater rafting down the Colorado, in the Grand Canyon.
