Ask the Advocate: Special Education Consulting & Advocacy Services

At Ask the Advocate, I provide expert guidance to families navigating the special education process. With over 23 years of experience, I help parents secure their children's educational opportunities, ensuring they receive the services, support, and placements they need to succeed.

Our Services

1. Speaking Engagements & Parent Education

I offer presentations and workshops on:

• The special education process and how parents can effectively advocate for their child.

• Building collaborative relationships between parents and schools while maintaining strong advocacy.

• Securing funding for residential and specialized boarding schools, including strategies to navigate district funding and legal considerations.

2. School & Placement Services

Finding the right educational setting for a child with learning differences or special needs can be overwhelming. I specialize in:

• Placement consulting for residential, day, and boarding schools, ensuring students are matched with programs that meet their academic, social-emotional, and therapeutic needs.

• Helping families secure out-of-district placements when their local school district is unable to provide an appropriate education.

• Navigating the legal and procedural steps required to get district funding for private placements when necessary.

3. IEP Advocacy & Special Education Consultation

Navigating an Individualized Education Program (IEP) can be complex, and I provide expert support to ensure students receive the services they need:

• IEP review and consultation to identify gaps and ensure compliance with special education laws.

• Advocacy at IEP meetings, including support in addressing disputes with school districts.

• Strategic letter writing, helping parents craft effective letters that get results.

• Prior written notice assistance, ensuring parents receive clear documentation of school decisions.

• Pre-meeting preparation, empowering parents to confidently articulate their concerns and priorities.

4. College Counseling for Students with Learning Disabilities

For students with learning disabilities or executive functioning challenges, the transition to college can be daunting. I help families:

• Identify colleges with strong disability support services that align with the student’s needs.

• Navigate college applications and accommodations, including obtaining necessary documentation for support services.

• Provide guidance on gap year programs, alternative post-secondary options, and specialized transition programs.

Exciting News: Training for Aspiring & Experienced Advocates!

🚀 Coming Soon! I am launching a comprehensive training program for experienced advocates looking to start, set up, and thrive in their own advocacy practice. If you’ve ever wanted to turn your passion for special education advocacy into a successful business, this training will give you the tools, strategies, and confidence to make it happen!

✔ How to establish your advocacy practice
✔ Business and financial setup essentials
✔ Effective marketing and client outreach strategies
✔ Managing advocacy cases successfully
✔ Creating a sustainable and thriving business

💡 Stay tuned for more details!

Why Families Trust Ask the Advocate

Extensive Experience & Personal Perspective

• I have been an advocate for over 23 years, supporting families across Massachusetts and beyond.

• My professional experience includes work with the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office and the Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance, bringing a strong background in policy, legal matters, and advocacy.

• As a parent of a child with learning and mental health needs, I understand both the emotional and practicalchallenges of securing the right educational support.

Proven Success in Securing Services & Placements

• I have helped families secure out-of-district placements, including residential and private school fundingthrough school districts.

• My knowledge of special education laws ensures families receive the services they are legally entitled to.

Investing in the Right Advocacy Matters

• Special education can feel like a battle, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I take a collaborative yet strategic approach to advocacy, ensuring families achieve the best possible outcomes.

• Every child deserves the right support to reach their full potential—and I am dedicated to making that happen.

Are you ready to get started?

📩 Contact me today to schedule a consultation!

💬 Interested in the upcoming training for advocates? Stay tuned for more details and join the waitlist!