Our Founder
Hi, I'm Sarah.
I’m a King County native, West Seattle local, and mom to two feisty young daughters.
Tidepool Coaching and Educational Services was born from both my personal experiences as a neurodivergent mother and my passion for applying the science of behavior to everyday life. I've been the overwhelmed parent searching for answers, and I've sat in special education meetings wondering how to best advocate for my child's needs. Those experiences shaped not only the work I do, but the way I do it.
Before starting my motherhood journey, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Social Work, where I developed a strong foundation in family and environmental systems, case management, community resources, and school-based support. My early career included working in elementary schools, developing and facilitating social skills programs, and helping connect children and families with needed services. That perspective continues to shape the way I work today—looking beyond individual challenges to support the whole child within the context of their family, school, and community.
I later earned my Master's degree in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). With years of experience partnering with families, schools, and interdisciplinary teams, I've dedicated my career to providing practical, compassionate support that creates meaningful change.
My experience spans parent coaching, educational collaboration, preschool consultation, behavior assessment, care coordination, and case management. I believe the most meaningful outcomes happen when parents, caregivers, educators, and providers work together toward shared goals. My goal is to help every family and educator feel heard, supported, and confident as we work together to create meaningful opportunities for growth.
Our Philosophy
Our approach draws from the science of behavior, social work systems theory, and a person-in-environment perspective. We recognize that behavior does not occur in isolation but is shaped by experiences, relationships, and environments. By understanding what influences behavior and the needs it may serve, we can identify practical, individualized ways to support children and the people around them.
We believe meaningful behavior change is not measured simply by increased compliance or reduced challenging behavior, but by improved communication, greater independence, meaningful participation, and quality of life.
Our work is grounded in compassionate, evidence-informed, neurodiversity-affirming practices that prioritize dignity, autonomy, safety, and assent.
Rather than focusing on direct intervention with children, Tidepool emphasizes empowering the adults who support them. Through individualized coaching, collaborative problem-solving, and practical skill development, we help caregivers and educators build confidence in applying behavior-based strategies within everyday routines. Our coaching also incorporates principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), encouraging flexibility, compassion, and values-driven action.
We recognize that meaningful support extends beyond the home. Through educational collaboration and IEP/504 guidance, we help families better understand their child's needs, navigate educational systems, and work collaboratively with school teams to create supportive, accessible learning environments.
Whether supporting caregivers, collaborating with educators, or navigating educational systems, our goal remains the same: to foster understanding, strengthen relationships, and create opportunities for meaningful growth.
Because even small changes within a child's ecosystem can make a lasting difference.
At Tidepool, we believe meaningful growth happens through collaboration. Just as a tide pool is shaped by the living things and natural forces within it, every child develops within a unique ecosystem of family, educators, caregivers, providers, and community. When these connections are supported, children have greater opportunities to thrive.
Ready to Connect?
Send us a quick note, and we’ll get back to you within two business days.