Serving Children and Adults with Developmental and Mental Health Challenges Since 1995

 

Hi, I’m Noriko, a school social worker and founder of the Social and Cognitive Learning Center in Davis, California.

 

For over 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside children, adults, and families as they navigate challenges related to anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, sensory processing, and more.

 

My journey began while attending UC Davis and working at Davis Summer House, a group home for adults with developmental disabilities. 

 

I noticed how small moments of encouragement, understanding, and belonging could transform someone's day.

 

From there, I continued on to support adults with developmental disabilities through vocational programs, a community mental health clinic for teens and adults in San Diego, and the San Diego school districts as a social worker for elementary and junior high schools.

 

These early years taught me something important and life-changing: 

Social growth doesn’t happen in isolation — it’s built through trust, connection, and steady, step-by-step support.

 

After earning my master’s degree, I worked in public schools supporting students through counseling, classroom lessons, and family collaboration. Those experiences deepened my understanding of how closely social and emotional development are woven into a child’s learning and overall wellbeing.

 

When I became a parent myself, that belief grew even stronger. I wanted to create a space where social-emotional learning could be nurtured intentionally — not left to chance.

 

In-Person Social and Emotional Support in Davis, California

 

That vision became the Social and Cognitive Learning Center (SCLC).

At SCLC, I focus on helping children and families build the confidence, communication, and emotional awareness that support happy, healthy, and connected lives.

My approach is:

- Hands-on and practical — Learning is real and relevant

- Collaborative — Parents, teachers, care teams and myself work closely

- Individualized — Every person/child's needs and environments are considered

 

My services include:

- Comprehensive Social Skills Coaching (individual & group)

- Parent coaching and education

- Social skills support in preschools

- Support for young adults transitioning to college or work

- Collaboration with schools, mental health professionals, and families

- Educational seminars and community talks

 

I care deeply about creating environments where children and adults feel supported across all areas of their lives — home, school, and community. My mission has always been simple: to help people live happy, healthy, and confident lives.

 

That vision became the Social and Cognitive Learning Center (SCLC).

At SCLC, I focus on helping children and families build the confidence, communication, and emotional awareness that support happy, healthy, and connected lives.

 

Online Support for Parents of Neurodivergent Kids

 

After years of working directly with children and families, I realized something important — many parents need guidance and support, but don’t always have easy access to it.

 

That’s why I created Parenting REdefined — my online platform designed to provide parents with tools and education to confidently support their child’s friendship and social growth.

 

Parenting REdefined is about shifting the focus from fixing behaviors to understanding what’s underneath them — so parents feel confident in their path forward.

 

Through online sessions, workshops, and resources, I cover topics such as:

- How friendships grow
- What a parent’s role is in supporting friendships
- Emotional regulation and resiliency
- Social skills development
- Supporting neurodivergent kids with confidence
-Building empathy, independence, and connection

I created Parenting REdefined because I wanted to share what I’ve learned over many years of working closely with families — and because I know how powerful it is when parents feel informed, supported, and steady in how they guide their children.

 

Education & Credentials

2003: Master of Social Work (MSW), San Diego State University — Children, Youth & Families emphasis

2003: Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential in School Social Work

2003: Child Welfare & Attendance Credential

1999: Bachelor’s Degree, University of California, Davis — Neurobiology, Physiology & Behavior

 

Areas & Focus

- Social-emotional skill building and early intervention

- Friendship and communication development

- Emotional regulation, flexibility, and coping strategies

- Parent coaching and education

- Support for young adults transitioning from high school to college or work settings

- Collaboration with schools, mental health professionals, and care teams

- IEP/SST participation and multidisciplinary teamwork

- 30+ years supporting children, adults, and families with anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, sensory processing challenges, and more.

 

At the Heart of My Work

To help every child — young or grown — feel capable, confident, and connected, and to give parents the tools to support their child’s social and friendship growth with clarity and confidence along the way.

 

 

Have any questions? [CONTACT ME]

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