Educational Therapy
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"My son has dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD. Nicole is amazing, and we are so lucky she was referred to us. He looks forward to his sessions with Nicole, and his teachers and I see significant positive changes in his reading level, his confidence, and his communication style."
- Parent of a 5th grader

​What is Educational Therapy and how is it different than tutoring?

Rather than focusing solely on specific subject matter like tutors, Educational Therapists implement tailor-made programs to help students develop the underlying skills essential for learning. Educational Therapists encourage students to learn to advocate for themselves and understand their unique learning profile. We act as case managers and collaborate with members of the child's support team. Additionally, an Educational Therapist has received more specialized training than a tutor.

What is your approach to Educational Therapy?

I offer a personalized and nurturing approach to support all types of learners, listening to the whole child to develop a program; their needs, strengths, challenges, and preferred learning styles are all taken into consideration. By reframing "disabilities" to embrace the wholeness of the child, I've always found unique talents and skills that may be overlooked in traditional educational settings. From my experience, programs are most effective when the student has a voice in guiding our work and has fun creatively working with me. My personal style of working with children is truly individualized. Depending on what the child needs, it may include:

- Developing an understanding of your child's unique learning expression
- Reducing shame that may come with learning differently than school would like them to 
- Designing an individualized learning map and prioritizing areas to support
- Recognizing and supporting areas where your child shines to inspire confidence
- Encouraging utilization of resources (technology, accommodations etc.) in areas of difficulty
- Helping to manage schoolwork and prioritize wellness
- Providing parent support
- Examining factors that impact learning (sleep, nutrition, exercise, self-esteem, etc.)
​- Assisting with educational and career planning 

Who do you work with?

I work with individuals ranging from preschool age to young adults who could benefit from additional support with their learning process. 

My areas of specialty include dyslexia, dysgraphia, math difficulties, ADHD, executive functioning difficulties and academic anxiety.

Do you offer testing or assessments?

I do not, but I can refer you to an assessment specialist. 

How long does it take to see results?

Pace varies child to child, and I honor each child’s pace. The most meaningful results to me are that your child feels confident in his or her abilities and is able to express their unique wisdom and gifts. Sometimes this happens quickly and other times it takes more time. 

What programs do you use?

I create a truly individualized program and do not follow one set program. I listen to your child and allow them to share what would be most supportive to them. I have extensive experience using Barton, Wilson, Touch Math, a modified version of LiPS, and Letterland. I have learned numerous other techniques and strategies from experts in the field and have created my own as well. I like to adapt the essence and most effective principles from these programs into my own blend of the material customized for your child. 

What parent support do you provide?

My parent support is personalized as well. It varies parent to parent, and we discuss what would be most beneficial during our first session. 

How do we get started? What is the process like?

First we have a free 20 minute phone or virtual parent consultation to determine if I am the right fit for you and your child. We discuss if you're interested in consulting, short-term or long-term support.

If we're a good fit, the next step is a 90 minute virtual intial consultation where I meet with your child and you. We discuss your child's current needs and what type of support program would be most effective.

In the beginning of working together, I recommend meeting 1-2 times a week for at least one month to build a strong connection and then determine the best session frequency after that.

If you would like to learn more, contact me to schedule a free 20 minute consultation. 
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