Meet the
Poppy Kids Team

Poppy Kids office coordinator Emily in her uniform in front of a triangular background.

Emily

Emily has been immersed in dentistry since June 2005, bringing 20 years of experience to her work. She loves getting to know people and their families, creating meaningful connections with each patient that often last for many years. Emily is particularly drawn to working with children because of their cheerful nature and imaginative perspective on the world, which brightens every single day.

Outside of her professional life, Emily enjoys spending time with her husband, three boys, and three cats, and loves baking sourdough bread.

Emily loves the Sanderson sisters from Hocus Pocus & Cinderella. Her ice cream pick is chocolate chip cookie dough.
Poppy Kids dental assistant Alexandra stands leaning against a patterned wall.

Alexandra

Alexandra’s passion for dentistry began through a close family friend whose father, an oral surgeon, inspired her with his enthusiasm for the field. She brings her curiosity and energy to assisting in pediatric dentistry, where she loves learning and connecting with young patients, making each visit a positive experience.

Besides work, Alexandra enjoys practicing yoga and curling up with a good book. She takes pride in being someone children remember fondly, associating their dental visits with positive memories that build confidence in their oral health.

Alexandra’s favorite Disney character is Aurora, and when it comes to ice cream, cookies and cream has always been her top choice.
Gabriela, a dental assistant at Poppy Kids, smiling in her uniform.

Gabriela

Gabriela has been a dental assistant since 2023, always knowing from a young age that she wanted to work with children. She is drawn to kids' vibrant personalities and is passionate about making every visit fun and comfortable — her goal is to turn what might feel like a nervous moment into something patients genuinely look forward to.

Outside the office, Gabriela loves being outdoors through snowboarding and hiking. She also finds balance in journaling, coloring, and listening to music — all things that keep her recharged and inspired.

Gabriela's favorite Disney character is Jasmine. When it comes to ice cream, she can't get enough of cookies and cream.
Poppy Kids office coordinator Clarisa stands leaning against a patterned wall.

Clarisa

Clarisa has been in dentistry for five years and truly loves watching patients' smiles transform over time. She especially enjoys seeing kids grow up between visits and building lasting relationships with their families — connections that make every day at the office feel meaningful.

Outside the office, Clarisa is a devoted dog lover who thrives outdoors. She loves learning new things and finds her happy place at the beach, with Bodega Bay being one of her favorite spots to recharge.

Clarisa's favorite Disney character is Cinderella, and when it comes to ice cream, she'll always reach for matcha.
Poppy Kids office coordinator Neah stands leaning against a patterned wall.

Neah

Neah has been in dentistry for two years and absolutely loves making kids feel safe and comfortable, turning every visit into a positive experience. Few things bring her more joy than seeing a child walk out of the office smiling. It's the highlight of her day and the reason she loves this work.

Outside the office, Neah enjoys traveling, snowboarding, and discovering new restaurants. Sushi is always at the top of her list. These passions keep her energized and add warmth to every family she welcomes.

Neah's favorite Disney character is Rapunzel, and when it comes to ice cream, chocolate chip cookie dough wins her over every time.
Poppy Kids Patient Comfort Coach Jen, smiling in her uniform.

Jen

With ten years of Applied Behavior Analysis experience across a variety of settings, Jen is passionate about helping children feel supported, confident, and emotionally successful. At Poppy Kids, she brings that same warmth and care to young patients navigating the dental setting.

Outside the office, Jen enjoys hiking, spending time at the beach, and hanging out with friends. These passions keep her grounded and inspire the kindness and patience she brings to every child she meets.

Jen's love for Winnie the Pooh began with her first baby blanket, and when it comes to ice cream, coconut is her favorite.

Hawley

Hawley is Poppy Kids Pediatric Dentistry’s beloved pup and sweetest team member. A gentle and loving golden retriever, she has mastered the art of spreading comfort with her wagging tail and calm nature. While Hawley isn’t always at the office—when she is here, she brings love and joy, helping make visits feel warm and positive.

Outside of her “work,” Hawley enjoys rolling on the lawn and lounging in the shade at her grandparents’ house. She also loves playing with her goldendoodle cousins, Tiffany and Apple, and never turns down belly rubs, treats, or a game of tug.

Hawley's favorite snacks are crunchy carrots and apple slices (seeds removed, of course!), and she loves how they help keep her teeth clean and bright—just like we encourage for all our young patients!
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