This summer, I joined Dr. Jessica Patel and host Vanessa Callaghan of The Calm Empowered Parent Podcast to discuss the assessment process.

In June of 2024, I sat down with host Jana Parker of the Empower LEP Podcast to discuss my transition from working in the schools to starting EmpowerEd Psychological Services. During the episode, I discuss the “why” behind my decision to work as an independent Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP) and share my passion for helping families understand and navigate the school system without the red tape often encountered as a district employee.

Licensed educational psychologists (LEPs) play a vital role in assisting school districts in ensuring the well-being and academic success of all students, particularly those with special education needs.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), is a comprehensive classification system published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) that provides criteria for the diagnosis of mental health disorders.

A licensed educational psychologist (LEP) is a professional who specializes in understanding and addressing the psychological aspects of learning and education. These professionals typically hold advanced degrees in psychology, educational psychology, or related fields, along with state licensure or certification to practice within a specific jurisdiction.

Private psychological assessments and public psychological school assessments serve distinct purposes and are conducted in different settings, each with its own advantages and limitations

Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) is a systematic process used in the field of education to understand the underlying reasons for challenging behaviors exhibited by students.

Qualifying for IEP services involves a thorough evaluation process to determine a child's eligibility for special education support.

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs), often referred to as speech therapists, play a crucial role in providing essential services to children who are struggling with various communication and speech-related challenges.

Special education compliance timelines in California are governed by federal and state laws to ensure that students with disabilities receive appropriate and timely services.

Educational therapists play a crucial role in supporting students with learning disabilities. These professionals are specially trained to assess, diagnose, and provide targeted interventions to help children overcome academic challenges and reach their full potential.

Resolving a dispute related to a student's 504 plan can be a challenging and complex process. Here are five potential options for resolving a 504 plan dispute.

An overview of the 504 plan including specific examples of several common types of accommodations and changes in the classroom that may be included to help support students with disabilities.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability and plays a crucial role in ensuring that children with disabilities have equal access to educational opportunities.

The testing process can evoke a lot of anxiety. To help reduce that anxiety, let this guide help prepare you for what to expect for the various components of the testing process.

An overview of what an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is and how students qualify for them.

Overview of the different roles between special education advocates and lawyers.

Overview of the differences between the special education requirements of public and private schools.