Why You Want a School Psychologist as Your Advocate
When your child needs support in school—whether it’s academic help, behavior strategies, or accommodations—you want someone in your corner who not only understands the system but has worked inside it. That’s exactly what you get when your advocate is a school psychologist.
Here’s why.
1. I know evaluations inside and out.
For 16 years, I’ve been doing special education evaluations: deciding who’s eligible, knowing what to test, which tools to use, and—most importantly—how to interpret the results. I can see past the numbers and understand what they actually mean for your child’s education.
2. I understand general education interventions.
Before a child is ever referred for special education, schools are supposed to try targeted supports. I know how progress should be tracked—both academically and behaviorally—what data should be collected, and how to tell if it’s working. And I know when it’s time to stop waiting and start an evaluation.
3. I’ve built behavior support from the ground up.
I’ve designed and implemented classroom behavior plans, run social skills groups, taught executive functioning strategies, provided counseling, set up check-in/check-out systems, and created sensory supports. I also know the tipping point—when informal supports aren’t enough and an evaluation is the next step.
4. I can navigate 504 plans with precision.
I’ve done 504 evaluations, written accommodation plans, and translated clinical diagnoses into school-based supports that actually make a difference. I understand the bridge between medical recommendations and what the school can—and must—provide.
5. I know the law and how to apply it.
From grad school training to 16 years of ongoing legal updates, I’m fluent as a user of both special education and 504 law. I know what best practice looks like and how to align services with both the letter and the spirit of the law.
6. I’ve sat at every table in the school system.
I’ve led teams, collaborated with special education teachers, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and counselors. I’ve worked closely with principals and district-level special education directors. I know who is responsible for what, and where the system tends to fall short.
I know what school staff know.
I also know what they probably haven’t told you.
That’s the kind of insider knowledge that can make all the difference for your child.
Need help? Ask me.