Over the past 30 years, I have provided comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations for students who are referred due to learning or attentional difficulties. The majority of referrals stem from questions about whether dyslexia or AD/HD may be present. Determining the cause of a student’s struggles, obtaining documentation for accommodations, and making appropriate recommendations for support are important. However, I feel strongly that the most valuable part of an evaluation is to ensure that parents are well-informed about any diagnosis and the options they have for addressing it, and that, in learning about their diagnosis, children also begin to understand it, have a sense that their situation can improve, and feel empowered – not “lesser than” – when they walk out of my office.
I am a strong proponent of early identification of students with dyslexia. I initiated a systematic assessment of early literacy skills in several local schools to help identify children at risk for dyslexia. I have seen, firsthand, the difference early identification and treatment can make for children – both in my practice and in my family.
I received a BA in Psychology and Computer Applications from the University of Notre Dame in 1987 and my PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Iowa in 1992. I am a member of the American Psychological Association, International Dyslexia Association, and participated in the Dyslexia Forum run through the Colorado Department of Education from 2017-2018. For the past 7 years I have been a member of the national board for Learning Ally.
STRATEGIC EVALUATIONS 