Bios

Niki is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families as a therapist, program director, behaviorist, adjunct professor, and camp director. She holds a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Adolescent Development and Psychology from California State University, Northridge.

Niki currently serves as an adjunct professor in the Child and Adolescent Development department at California State University, Northridge. Her clinical and professional experience includes supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder, behavioral challenges, trauma, and other developmental and mental health needs.

Niki is also the founder of New Growth Family Therapy & Consulting in Los Angeles, where she provides mental health services, consultation, and training for families, schools, and organizations. She has trained and presented at universities, schools, and community organizations, including internationally on autism and treatment approaches.

Niki is passionate about creating inclusive communities where every child and family has access to quality mental health services, education, and opportunities to thrive.

Areas of Expertise: Autism Spectrum Disorder • Behavioral Challenges • Children & Adolescents • Parent Support & Training

Contact: nwebbmft@gmail.com 

Maria Castillo brings more than 10 years of professional experience supporting children and families. She began her career providing one-on-one support before advancing to roles as a Special Education Teaching Assistant and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). Maria earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from California State University, Northridge, and most recently served as a Service Coordinator at the Regional Center, where she connected individuals and families with essential resources, services, and support.

Maria continues her professional journey as Manager of New Growth. In this role, she will focus on developing an inclusive program, supporting staff, and creating meaningful opportunities for children and families. Maria is passionate about fostering supportive environments where every individual feels valued, empowered, and encouraged to grow.

Hi, I’m Alondra, a Team Leader here at Lotus. I’ve had the opportunity to work with children with special needs for the past 10 years, and supporting children and their families has always been something I truly care about.

I’m also a mom to a son with autism, so I understand this journey not only from a professional perspective, but from a parent’s perspective too. I know how important it is to have people around your child who see them for who they are, understand their individual needs, and create a space where they feel comfortable, accepted, and included.

At Lotus, my goal is to help create that kind of environment for every child and family we work with. I want families to feel heard, supported, and reassured that their child is in a place where they can be themselves, build connections, learn new skills, and grow at their own pace.

I’m grateful to be part of a team that believes every child has something special to bring, and I look forward to getting to know each of our Lotus families and being part of their journey.