Mary Hecht

Background

About Mary Hecht

Certified Child Life Specialist | Certified Family Life Educator | Adjunct InstructorAs an Exposure Coach at InStride Health and an Adjunct Instructor in various Child and Family Sciences programs, I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and families through evidence-based practices and compassionate education. With a background as a Certified Child Life Specialist and Certified Family Life Educator, my work bridges the gap between clinical care and academic instruction.At InStride Health, I help young individuals facing anxiety, OCD, and related disorders build resilience and confidence through exposure-based interventions. My approach is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and the belief that small, consistent steps can lead to transformative change.In my role as an adjunct instructor, I am dedicated to preparing future child and family professionals with a strong foundation in child development, psychosocial care, and family systems. I create engaging, student-centered learning environments that encourage critical thinking, cultural competence, and reflective practice.My career has been shaped by diverse experiences in pediatric healthcare, higher education, and community outreach. I thrive in roles where I can blend clinical expertise with teaching, mentorship, and program development to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.Let’s connect if you’re passionate about child mental health, family support, or innovative approaches to education and care.