TACOMA-PIERCE COUNTY
There is nothing wrong with small. You can do big things with a small team.
-Jason Fried
Program Supervisor
Lesa Leclair, BS
I received a Bachelor's degree from Eastern Washington University in Child Psychology in 1992 with an emphasis in social work. I have worked with children and families professionally since 2004, and extensively with therapeutic foster children using behavioral strategies to make them successful in home and school settings. I have had the privilege to work with children and their families to successfully reunify and strengthen families. I will provide skill-building for parents, behavior modification for children, emotion management skills, and connections to community resources.
Parent Educator
Melissa Fried , Ed.D
My formal education includes a Doctorate in Education in Leadership in Innovation and Continuous Improvement, a master’s degree in Family Life Education with an emphasis on Parent Coaching and Marriage Enrichment, and a bachelor’s degree in Community Recreation Management. Before joining the Institute for Family Development team, I was a Parent Educator with Devereaux Advanced Behavioral Health and a Substitute Teacher for Special Education and Kindergarten through 8th grade in Chandler, Arizona. I am a firm believer that learning never ends, and I am always looking to expand my knowledge through education and experience with the families I serve.
Parent Educator
Marilin Griego Benitez, BA
I received a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Western Washington University. I have been committed to serving children and families in the Puget Sound area. Prior to coming to the Institute for Family Development, I worked with school age students and families in a before and after schools setting as well as preschool aged children in preschool programs. I am committed to my ongoing development as a Parent Educator by frequently taking additional courses and classes to improve my work with families. I am honored and have always enjoyed working with families, and creating a connection with families who may not have English as their first language.