From a 3 a.m. Struggle to a Second Career
Hi, I’m Johanna, a certified child sleep consultant, former elementary school teacher, and mom of two active boys who now sleep soundly (most nights!).
My journey into the world of child sleep began not in a classroom, but at 3 a.m. with a sleepless newborn. When my eldest son struggled to fall asleep and stay asleep during his first few months, I found myself immersed in every sleep book and article I could get my hands on. My main questions were, “Why can’t he fall asleep on his own?” “Why are naps so short?” “How can I help him sleep through the night?”
Through trial, error, and more late-night reading, I found answers. I created a routine that finally worked, and for a while, we all slept well. But he reached age two, and his sleep patterns fell apart. This time, I reached out to a sleep consultant, and it changed everything. With clear guidance, personalized tools, and steady support, I regained my confidence, and so did he. When my second son was born, I was ready. I used everything I’d learned to build healthy sleep habits from the start.
That experience planted a seed. I started helping friends and colleagues with their children’s sleep struggles, and I loved helping others. I realized this might be the new professional challenge I had been looking for.
I became a certified Child Sleep Consultant through the Family Sleep Institute, one of the most comprehensive, evidence-based training programs in the field. I also became a member of the International Association of Child Sleep Consultants and have additional training in:
- Reducing the Risk of SIDS in Early Education and Child Care (American Academy of Pediatrics)
- Lactation Management (Lactation Education Resources)
As a sleep consultant, I bring together my background in education and my belief in healthy sleep to support families through personalized, science-backed sleep coaching. Whether we work together in person, virtually, or by phone, I’ll listen closely, tailor a sleep plan to your family’s unique needs, and walk with you every step of the way. My goal is to give you the tools and confidence to help your child get the healthy, restorative sleep they need to thrive, and to help your whole family feel rested and recharged.
Prior to this career change, I spent 15 years in the classroom as a first and fourth grade teacher and a third grade learning specialist in New York City. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bates College and a Master’s in Curriculum and Teaching from Teachers College, Columbia University.
I currently live in Westchester, NY with my husband and our two well-rested sons, just a stone’s throw from the Long Island Sound.
Let’s get your family sleeping again. I’d be honored to help.
