After being born in New Jersey and moving to Virginia, I finally settled in Sandy Springs, GA in middle school.  I earned a Business Administration Bachelor’s degree and a Masters of Science degree in Management focusing on Organizational Behavior and Development from Georgia State University.  

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Prior to the birth of my son, I worked for over 20 years in the healthcare industry, managing and consulting with medical practices. When my son was born with medical complications, he required intensive early intervention and special education services. After experiencing firsthand how important parental advocacy skills are, I obtained my advocacy training from the Georgia Advocacy Office’s Parent Leadership Support Project. I also had trainings from Wrightslaw, COPAA, William & Mary Law School's ISEA Program, NSEAI, and various disability groups.

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For over 15 years, I have been working as an experienced advocate for students with disAbilities. I work with families to help them acquire educational and financial resources.  As a consultant I am able to help parents and families understand how to navigate through the Special Education and medical funding process. 

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In the Special Education arena, I assist parents by meeting their individual needs, consulting 1:1, and by attending school meetings helping to create solid educational plans for children with all types of Abilities.  I assist with all aspects of special education, including eligibility meetings, IEP’s, 504’s, manifestation determination meetings, and developing behavioral intervention plans.  I work collaboratively with families and school districts to find solutions so children receive an appropriate educational plan.  I do not provide medical or legal advice and sometimes legal or medical consultation is required.  In these situations, I can provide referrals to these professionals. 

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Many families are struggling to pay for all of the interventions that their children require. I assist parents with Katie Beckett Medicaid Deeming Waiver Applications and guide them to numerous financial and provider resources.

 

Educating families and providers in the special needs community is my passion.  I speak with many parent groups, educators, and providers on various topics. Knowlege is power!

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