Staff – Children’s Services

Clinical Director

Julia Morton
Clinical Director of Children's Services

Julia has been with Gem State Developmental Center since July of 2023. She completed her bachelor's degree in psychology and communication. She has a passion for providing quality, personalized intervention with a positive attitude for the participants in the Children's Program. Julia loves all things Disney, board games, movies, and LEGOs. Stop by to say hello!

Locations:  Meridian, Nampa

Children's Staff

Epifania Sotelo Rayo
Developmental Specialist

Epifania has been with Gem State Developmental Center since December of 2024. She has a bachelor’s degree in Applies Behavioral Sciences. Epifania works as a Developmental Specialist at the Nampa Children's Program. In her free time, Epifania enjoys spending time with family, friends, and pursuing hobbies.

 Location: Nampa

Theresa Cotner
Developmental Specialist

Theresa has been with Gem State Developmental Center since March 2025. She earned her Master's in Teaching and works as a Developmental Specialist at the Nampa Children's Program. In her free time, Theresa enjoys time with family and friends and pursuing her hobbies.

Diana Barrow
Developmental Specialist

Diana has been with Gem State Developmental Center since August of 2024. As a Behavior Interventionist, Diana supports the youth by positive modeling, teaching appropriate social interactions and utilizes intervention strategies to help participants manage challenges in their day. In her free time, Diana enjoys spending time with family, friends, and pursuing her hobbies. 

Location: Meridian 

Jessica Choueiry
Developmental Specialist

Jessica has been with Gem State Developmental Center since November of 2024. She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology works as a Developmental Specialist at the Meridian Children's Program. In her free time, Jessica enjoys time with family, friends, and pursuing her hobbies. 

Location: Meridian 

Sarah Ward
Behavior Interventionist

Sarah has been with Gem State Developmental Center since February 2025. As a Behavior Interventionist, Sarah models positive interactions with the participants of the Children's Program. Her ability to connect with the kids and provide them with a fun and structured environment promotes progress. Sarah enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and community. 

Location: Meridian 

Michelle Cook
Behavior Interventionist

Michelle has been with Gem State Developmental Center since August of 2024. As a Behavior Interventionist, Michelle promotes positive engagement, appropriate social interactions and utilizes intervention strategies to help participants manage challenges in their day. In her free time, Michelle enjoys spending time with family and friends. 

Location: Meridian

Emilyann Yuruki
Intervention Technician

Emily has worked for Gem State Developmental Center since September 2023. Emily is currently attending Boise State University, where she is majoring in Psychology. She works as an Intervention Technician in the Meridian Children's Program. Emily enjoys helping others and likes to read books and go paddle boarding. 

Location: Meridian 

Shay Ruiz
Intervention Technician

Shay started with Gem State Developmental Center as an Intern while attending Boise State University. After completing her bachelor's degree in Social Work, Shay joined our team as a Behavior Intervention Technician in May of 2025. In her free time, Shay enjoys a range of hobbies and loves to spend time with family and friends. 

Location: Meridian

Libbie Fairchild
Behavior Interventionist
Libbie joined our team as an Intern for the Fall /Spring 2024 semesters. Shas is currently attending university for her master's degree in social work.  Libbie enjoys staying busy and in her free time, pursuing hobbies and spending time with family and friends.  

Location: Nampa

Mandi Lemrick
Behavior Interventionist

Mandi has been with Gem State Developmental Center since May 2025. As a Behavior Interventionist, she promotes positive engagement with participants and peers, models appropriate social interactions, and utilizes intervention strategies to help participants manage challenges in their day. In her free time, Mandi enjoys spending time with family and friends. 

Location: Meridian