FAQ

I'm sure you have a bunch of questions. I'll try to answer some common ones here, but of course feel free to reach out should you need anything specific addressed.

What's the difference between a special education advocte and a special education attorney?

Special education attorneys and advocates both support families navigating the special education process, but they play different roles:

Special Education Attorneys are licensed legal professionals. They can provide legal advice, represent families in due process hearings or lawsuits, and handle legal documents. Think of them as your go-to experts for situations that require legal action or when disputes can't be resolved collaboratively.
Special Education Advocates (like me!) are knowledgeable professionals who focus on helping families understand their rights, improve communication with schools, and ensure children receive the services they need. Advocates don’t provide legal advice, but we can offer guidance, attend meetings, and empower families to work effectively with schools.

Both are passionate about helping kids succeed, and the right choice depends on your unique situation!

What's the difference between a 504 plan and an IEP?

Great question! Students with disabilities in schools can gain access to certain services utilizing either a 504 plan or an IEP. A 504 is great for students who need accommodations (ex. extended time on tests) but are NOT in need of specialized instruction/supports. An IEP (Individualized Education Plan) is ideal for students with disabilities where they may benefit from accommodations AND specialized instruction in their area of need. For example, a student with a reading disability could theoretically benefit from a 504 but would be best served by an IEP so that they can receive specialized instruction in reading to help address their deficits.

You're a school psychologist. Can you evaluate my student and write a report that I can give to my school?

Nope. My evaluation days are in the past and I can recommend someone in your area to evaluate your child if you're wanting a private evaluation in lieu of or in addition to your schools evaluation. I am also more than happy to review any evaluations, private or otherwise, to help you better understand their implications.

I do provide remote report writing services for school psychologists managing their own private practice, but I no longer provide direct services to students.

I can't afford your services right now but I need help. What can I do?

Please email me. I reserve space in my schedule to provide a select number of services utilizing a sliding scale fee structure. I'm sure we can figure something out.

We don't live in Florida, can you still help us?

Yes! I'm ready and willing to help any child, anywhere. I have the most experience in working with students in the Chicagoland area and support students locally in Florida. That does not mean I can't do a whole lot of good while working remotely for your child. Reach out and we can figure out a plan. Covid was a bummer, but it left us with remote meeting capabilities and that's a real gift.

My child attends a private school but they told me they don't evaluate. Now what?

You can request an evaluation through your local school district and if they accept the evaluation request and find your child eligible for services, you can work with your private school to initiate a Service Plan to support your child. Private schools are not obligated to follow an IEP and sometimes parents find moving their child back to their districted school to be the best way to get their child the supports they need. There are options and we can work through them together.

Will the school be mad that I hired an advocate?

Maybe. However, I promise to advocate for your child while remaining in a collaborative spirit. I truly believe that if schools are working in the best interest of your child then they won't ever mind if another cheerleader (ie: me, the advocate) is in the room.