Heather Hernandez
About Heather Hernandez
Heather Hernandez is a Child Life Specialist at Atlantic Health in Summit, NJ, where she has worked since 2016. She holds a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and has a strong interest in medical family therapy within pediatrics.
Work at Atlantic Health System
Heather Hernandez has served as a Child Life Specialist at Atlantic Health System since 2016. In this role, she focuses on supporting pediatric patients and their families through therapeutic play and education. Her work is centered in Summit, NJ, where she has accumulated eight years of experience. Heather's responsibilities include helping children cope with medical procedures and promoting emotional well-being in a healthcare setting.
Previous Experience in Child Life
Before her tenure at Atlantic Health System, Heather Hernandez worked as a Child Life Specialist at Cooper University Health Care from 2013 to 2016. During this three-year period in Camden, NJ, she provided support to children and families navigating healthcare challenges. Additionally, she completed an internship as a Child Life Intern at Hackensack University Medical Center in 2006, where she gained foundational experience in child life services.
Education and Expertise
Heather Hernandez holds a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nyack College, where she studied from 2012 to 2016. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Child and Family Studies from Montclair State University, completing her studies from 2004 to 2006. Her educational background equips her with a strong foundation in both therapeutic practices and family systems, which she integrates into her work as a Child Life Specialist.
Interest in Medical Family Therapy
Heather Hernandez has a strong interest in medical family therapy, particularly within the pediatric context. This interest informs her approach to supporting families during medical experiences. She actively seeks to connect with other professionals in her field to share resources and knowledge, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning and collaboration in child life services.