Communication Intervention Team

Joey hamlin

Joey is passionate about providing excellent 1:1 speech-language pathology services to individuals of all ages and abilities.  Joey possesses specialized and advanced training in the areas of augmentative and alternative communication and assistive technology (AAC/AT), bilingual language development, and feeding/swallowing disorders. Utilizing a holistic, evidence-based and client-centered approach, Joey strives to systematically plan appropriate intervention that best meets her client’s unique needs. Joey creates a nurturing and creative learning environment, and enjoys supporting her clients as they develop the skills to become confident and successful communicators. Joey is delighted to be a part of the Avalon team, and thankful for the privilege and joy to work with the families and clients that she serves. Joey holds a Master’s degree in Speech Pathology from San Jose State University.

Kacee johnson, SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

Movement Intervention Team

brenda huey

Brenda specializes in treatment of the neuromuscular system and functional skill acquisition for children with physical impairments and gross motor delay. She enjoys creating a therapeutic environment that is intrinsically motivating, meaningful, and most of all fun for her clients to challenge their motor skills and celebrate their successes. Brenda graduated with her Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from University of the Pacific in Stockton, Ca. She has taken various professional training courses on pediatrics and the neuromuscular system including: NDT, myofascial release, reflex integration, breathing and postural mechanics, and orthotic management.

anna moskovits

Ann brings over 20 years of experience working with newborns, infants, children, and adults with neurological impairments. She has helped her patients by leveraging a wide range of techniques, including soft tissue mobilization (Deveny Method), Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT), Kinesio Taping, Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES), and Vestibular Rehabilitation. Anna holds a B.Sc. degree in Physical Therapy from the Semmelweiss University in Budapest, and a second diploma in Soft Tissue Mobilization (Deveny Method). She is a California licensed physical therapist and a member of the Association of Pediatric Therapists.

Special Education Consultants

Sara Hawkinson

Sara is committed to providing consultation to professionals in the field of Special Education and tailoring her services to meet the highly individualized needs of clients.  She is passionate about creating joyous, meaningful, and engaging classroom experiences for students and developing a classroom culture that encourages growth for all. Sara is also passionate about leading interactive presentations/lectures throughout the local community, sharing information on a variety of topics associated with Special Education Best Practices. Sara holds a masters degree and a California teaching credential in Special Education (Moderate to Severe Disabilities) along with an Orthopedically Impaired Added Authorization from San Francisco State University.

Lizzie Schoelen

Lizzie is in charge of curriculum and instruction at Avalon. She specializes in creating highly motivating, multisensory educational materials and is passionate about adapting age-appropriate literature. Lizzie guides the program’s thematic unit development and continually reflects and challenges herself to keep Avalon’s curricula current, vibrant, engaging, meaningful and rooted in Best Practice. She is passionate about supporting Special Educators and enjoys providing curriculum consultation to clients. Lizzie holds a masters degree and a California teaching credential in Special Education (Moderate to Severe Disabilities) along with an Orthopedically Impaired Added Authorization from San Francisco State University.

Karla Alcantar

Karla is dedicated to helping educators think outside the box to create meaningful, motivating and functional school and community-based vocational routines for transition-age students.  She is passionate about ensuring that each program is a direct reflection of individual student skills, interests and family desires. Karla is also a student and certified teacher of yoga.  She offers yoga and meditation classes for Avalon students and parents as well as private and public studio classes.  Karla holds a masters degree and a California teaching credential in Special Education (Physical and Health Impairments).