About Dr. Hecker

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 Hello, I have spent my entire career helping people. I was the director of the Purdue University Northwest Couple and Family Therapy Center for 25 years, and taught in the marriage and family therapy master's program there.  I have edited or authored eleven books including Different Planets: Understanding Your Neurodiverse Relationship, and A Spectrum of Solutions for Clients with Autism (with Dr. Rachel Bédard).   My other books include  An Introduction to Marriage and Family Therapy (with Joseph Wetchler), Ethics and Professional Issues in Couple and Family Therapy (with Megan Murphy), among others, and have published in numerous peer-reviewed journals. 

 I have a Ph.D. in Child Development and Family Studies with a specialization in marriage and family therapy from Purdue University.  I also have a master's degree in Counselor Education from Western Illinois University, and a bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in gerontology also from Western Illinois University.  

 I am a Clinical Fellow and Approved Supervisor in the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.   I am a Distinguished Professor of Couples and Family Therapy Program, Daybreak University, and I hold the title of professor emerita of Purdue University NW after a 25 year career there. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in Colorado and Indiana.  I  am also a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and a Certified ADHD Clinical Specialist (via Evergreen Certifications). 

I have won three teaching awards, including from Daybreak University, Purdue University, and University of Nebraska. I believe therapy encompasses a lot of teaching and I myself am a constant student of human behavior. 

 I won Purdue University's Walk the Talk Award in 2014.  This award was bestowed by Purdue University, through the Office of the Vice President for Ethics & Compliance, presented to individuals who “most exemplify strong ethical character in their dealings with others, champion ethical practices or programs, or apply personal values in a manner that demonstrates integrity and high standards of excellence.”  

I love working with neurodivergent people, and just truly enjoy unique brains. I raised a child on the spectrum (with ADHD) and she is now a successful adult. After having been an academic for 25 years, I have been in practice for 5 years here in Fort Collins, Colorado.  I love to travel, and I enjoy time with friends and family.