Presentations & Workshops
With over 30 years in public education and mental health, I help educators and families build the skills and systems that support real well-being.
I began as a School Psychologist, working with students from elementary through high school. That work grew into district-wide efforts as a Wellness Coordinator where I led suicide and substance use prevention and parent education initiatives across school communities.
I created the Parent Academy in Cherry Creek Schools, a space for caregivers to build research-based skills together, and spent two decades on the board of the Parent Information Network connecting families with practical resources and support.
Grounded in research on adolescent sleep and its impact on academics and mental health, I served in a key leadership role in the largest organizational change in district history - Cherry Creek's school start times change. This meant building consensus across staff and community, and co-authoring first-of-its kind research on its impact on student, parent and teacher wellbeing.
As educator burnout and workforce shortages have become defining challenges in schools nationwide, I was entrusted with creating a new role - Staff Mental Health and Wellness Partner - to address those needs directly. I now design and implement workshops, trainings, multi-tiered systems-level interventions and 1:1 supports focused on chronic stress, dysregulation, compassion fatigue, trauma and resilience, helping schools sustain the educators who make everything else possible.
Alongside this work, I served as a Content Expert for Maven Clinic, translating psychological research into practical, guidance parents can use with confidence.
School Psychologist ~ Educator ~ Wellness Professional ~ Parent
Popular Topics
My informational presentations and workshops reflect an understanding of what it is to be a lifelong educator in public schools and a parent who has experienced the ups and downs of raising kids.
Simply put, I've lived it.
While all presentations and workshops are tailored to the audience, they are grounded in accessible, research-based practices designed for busy educators and parents and are experiential in nature to enhance learning, community and connection.
Adult Mental Health First Aid
Wired for Wellness: Brain-Based Strategies That Work
Sustainable Teaching: Prevention Burnout Before it Takes Hold
The Practice of Gratitude: Small Shifts, Real Self-Care
Self-Compassion: What it is, Why It Matters & How to Practice It
When Caring Becomes Exhausting: Understanding & Addressing Compassion Fatigue
Managing Big Emotions: Practical tools for Regulation
Navigating Grief & Loss
Understanding & Harnessing the Power of Stress
And More!
Recognitions & Testimonials
"Janise is the epitome of kindness. Her dedication and desire to support others' mental wellness is evident in every interaction. With her exceptional insight and empathy she connects with others while facilitating group discussions.."
~ Jen Zapanta, Cherry Creek Schools
De-Escalation Liaison
Kaiser Thriving Schools Honor Roll Award Recipient
This recognition celebrates, "ordinary people doing extraordinary things to build a healthier future for students, staff and teachers."
"Janise combines professional knowledge with compassionate understanding and clear delivery in her presentations/workshops. A parent walks away feeling empowered to put into practice newly learned information so as to better their family dynamics and personal relationships."
~ Susu Dugas, Former Parent Information Network Chairperson
Health Links Innovation Award
For developing and implementing mindfulness trainings that create a supportive, healthy environment for teachers and students.
"In the years of working with Janise, what stands out is how approachable and present she is with those in her care. She listens closely and offers empathic support. Staff regularly offer glowing praise and referrals to their colleagues."
~ Scott Fearon, Licensed Clinical & School Social Worker