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	Individual Members A-C D-F G-L M-R S-Z JORDAN S. ABRAMSON, MA Abramson Tutoring 706 Market Street East, Gaithersburg, MD 20878 202-262-9695 Jordan@abramsontutoring.com www.abramsontutoring.com Services: The finest academic coaching, study skills mentoring, and reading, writing and math tutoring is available for middle, high school and college students with learning differences. Organization, time management, and research skills are developed through modeling and the Socratic method. Distance learning and coaching is available for students away at college. For more information please visit www.abramson.com. Biography: Jordan S. Abramson holds a master's degree in education from Villanova and a BFA in painting from Tyler School of Art. He was a classroom teacher for 9 years and has been tutoring since 1993. He has been nominated Wal-Mart teacher of the year, and was twice recognized by the Washington Post for outstanding programs in education. Jordan is the author of 5 books that are available at major book stores, and is a member of the National Council on Teaching Mathematics. JOEL ADLER, Psy.D. Assessment Associates 7013-A Brookville Road, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-951-5666, Fax 301-951-3339 Ajheadman@aol.com Services: Specializing ADHD/LD and other comprehensive psychological testing; Pre-admissions testing for independent private schools; Children, adolescence and adult individual short and long-term psychotherapy; socialization groups for children with ADHD and other developmental challenges; Eating disorder and self-mutilation treatments with pre-teen and teens; Parenting consultation; School and community lectures and presentations; sports psychology interventions; individual supervision. Biography: Psy.D., M.A., California School of Professional Psychology. M.T.S., Harvard Divinity School; B.A., Alfred University; Pre-doctoral training at Student Health Services, San Diego State University and San Diego City College; 5 years experience in a multidisciplinary developmental practice, working in conjunction with pediatric PTs, OTs, neurologists, speech and language pathologists and LD specialists; 6 years as Director of Assessment Associates; Guest lecturer in D.C. area colleges; past adjunct professor at Queens College, Charlotte, NC. CLARE C. ANDERSON, M.Ed. The School Counseling Group 4725 MacArthur Boulevard, NW, Washington, DC 20007 202-333-3530, Fax: 202-333-3212 clare@schoolcounseling.com www.schoolcounseling.com Services/Biography: Clare Anderson joined the School Counseling Group in 2002 to assist families in independent and public school choices, both day and boarding. She received her M.Ed. from the University of Virginia in Counselor Education and her B.A. from Washington & Lee University. From 1999-2002, Mrs. Anderson served as Placement Counselor and Director of College Recruitment at Independent Educational Services (IES), a teacher/ administrator placement firm for independent schools nationwide. Prior to IES, Mrs. Anderson spent three years as the Upper School Counselor at Providence Day School in Charlotte, North Carolina. She grew up in Washington, DC, attended the National Cathedral School, and graduated from the Pomfret School in Connecticut. Mrs. Anderson is presently a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). STEPHANIE J. ARTHUR, M.A. Educational Therapist 1122 Guilford Court, McLean, VA 22101 703-749-1649, Fax: 703-940-2340 educationaltheraphy@cox.net Services: Analysis, educational planning, remediation and case management for students with learning disabilities (LD, NLD, ADD/ADHD). Interpretation and coordination of test results to create a comprehensive educational plan. Work individually with students using a variety of resources and strategies (Lindamood-Bell, Phonographix, Read Naturally, etc.) to strengthen skills needed to succeed in school and beyond. Create a structured, supportive environment to bolster self-confidence. All facets of case management and support including advocating for services, attendance at IEP meetings and coordination of professional services. Biography: Stephanie Arthur has been a classroom teacher for over twenty years. During her career as an educator, she has taught students in elementary school, high school, and at the university level. She has experience as a special educator having taught at the Lab School of Washington. She is presently an adjunct faculty member in the School of Education at American University where she teaches reading. She has a Masters Degree in Special Education: Learning Disabilities from American University as well as a Masters Degree in French Language and Literature from the University of Maryland. She received her B.A. in Drama and Theater from the University of Hawaii. Allied Member of the Association of Educational Therapists. She is currently in private practice. CRYSTAL MARCUS AUGUST, LCSW, BCD 4940 Hampden Lane, Suite 210, Bethesda, MD 20814 301-951-0408, Fax: 301-657-4268 cjaugust2005@comcast.net Services: Psychotherapy with adolescents and adults and organizational consulting. Modalities include individual, group, couples, and family counseling. Specialize in adoption issues, depression, and adults with learning disabilities. Biography: B.A. Barnard College 1973. MSW Boston University 1978. Have worked in various settings including the adolescent unit of the Psychiatric Institute of Montgomery County. Currently in private practice. KATHERINE G. MAXWELL BAKER, MS, CCC Speech/Language Pathologist 1701 N. Quaker Lane, Suite 207, Alexandria, VA 22302 703-888-9385 kmaxwellslp@gmail.com Services: Diagnosis and treatment for children ages 2-18 with articulation disorders, language delays, fluency disorders, and auditory processing disorders. This practice also provides therapy for children with reading delays including dyslexia and comprehension delays using a variety of proven reading programs, as well as assistance in the areas of executive function, organization, and time management. Parents are a vital part of therapy and are encouraged to ask questions and observe if they would like. Progress updates are continuous during the course of therapy so that parents can complete carry over activities with children at home when prescribed. Biography: M.S. James Madison University, B.S. College of William and Mary. National Rehabilitation Hospital, Stroke and Brain Injury, 1 year; Alexandria City Public Schools, 4 years; Pediatric Private Practice, 5 years. Fully certified and licensed. JEAN H. BALDWIN, M.A. CEP Educational Consultant, Certified Educational Planner 4921 Tilden St., NW, Washington, DC 20016 202-363-0513, Home: 202-363-0513, Fax: 202-364-2667 baldwinconsult@aol.com www.jeanbaldwin.com Services: Independent School advising and referral for preschool through high school age students. Services offered include educational and admission testing, assessment of learning style, evaluation of appropriate grade placement, recommendations of appropriate independent schools, individual guidance through the admission process, and long term educational planning. The services focus on an individualized, personal approach to each student and family. Significant time is spent visiting and assessing day schools locally and boarding schools throughout the United States. Biography: Former Director of Lower School Admission at St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School, previously affiliated with Georgia K. Irvin, and Associates. B.A. Purdue University, M.A. Marymount University. Memberships include IECA (former Board member), AICEP (former Commissioner), SSATB, ERB, and ACCESS. JUDITH S. BASS, CEP Bass Educational Services, LLC 4229 Cherry Valley Drive, Olney, MD 20832 8296 Old Courthouse Rd. Suite C, Vienna, VA 22182 301-774-5211 Fax: 240-220-0654 info@basseducationalservices.com www.BassEducationalServices.com Services: We offer comprehensive college planning services for high school students with learning differences, beginning as early as freshman year. Families are guided throughout the college selection and admissions process. Services include preparation of a detailed and personalized college list; assistance with college visits, interviews, applications, and essays; review of psychoeducational testing and recommendations for college level accommodations; suggestions regarding high school course selection, extracurricular and community service activities, and standardized testing (SAT/ACT); assistance in fostering independence and developing selfadvocacy skills. Biography: Certified Educational Planner; over 30 years experience in the field of education as an educator, tutor, admissions counselor, and educational consultant. Extensive experience working with students with a range of learning disabilities and attention disorders. BA Stony Brook University; Certificate in College Counseling, UCLA; Montessori Teaching Credential, American Montessori Society. Member of IECA, HECA, PCACAC, NACAC, ACCESS, C.H.A.D.D., LDA, Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities Association (NLDA), and Tourette Syndrome Association (TSA). In practice as an educational consultant since 2001. SUSAN S. BAUMAN, LCSW-C, BCD 10400 Connecticut Ave., Suite 303, Kensington, MD 20895 301-933-9890 Services: Psychosocial diagnostic evaluations and psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. Individual, conjoint, group and family therapy. Supervision and consultation with other mental health and educational professionals. Biography: Graduate training at Columbia and Howard Universities, Yale Psychiatric Institute and the Hampstead Clinic. Work experience: Children’s Hospital Department of Psychiatry, 1965-70; Potomac Foundation for Mental Health, 1970-75; Private Practice, 1975-present. JODY BLEIBERG, PH.D. Bethesda Neuropsychology 9515 Linden Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 20814 301) 493-4198, Fax: (301) 493-4198 jody.bleiberg@bethesdaneuropsychology.com Services: Neuropsychological, Psychoeducational, Psychological, and Independent School Admission Evaluations. Co-founder Bethesda Neuropsychology with her husband, an internationally recognized neuropsychologist and expert in concussion and mild traumatic brain injury. Particular interest in neuropsychological evaluations of children through young adults having cognitive, educational, psychiatric, and family/social issues leading to comprehensive treatment recommendations. Drs. Bleiberg personally complete all testing to assure careful observation and individualized assessment, emphasizing making evaluations and recommendations understandable and useable. On-going involvement with families. Biography: Licensed: Maryland, D.C.. Dual Certified: Clinical Psychology and School Psychology. Received Ph.D., Clinical Psychology (APAapproved), Northwestern University, 1990; M.Ed., School Psychology, Boston State College, 1979; B.A., Psychology, Boston University, 1976. Clinical Psychology Internship (APA-approved), Veterans Administration Hospital, Washington, D.C; Pre-doctoral internships at Chicago Institute of Psychiatry; School Psychology Internships, Tufts-New England Medical Center, Neuropsychology Laboratory, Boston and Chicago area school systems. Memberships: American Psychological Association (APA), National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology, GTLD Network of Montgomery County, International Dyslexia Association, Mental Health Association. Married 33 years and mother of four teenagers. KRISTEN BOSLEY, M.ED. Educational Consultant Early Years, LLC 3501 Wood Pile Ct., Alexandria, VA 22310 703-304-2992 earlyyears@cox.net Services: Provides educational consulting services specializing in the area of early childhood special education, ages birth to 5. Services include one on one tutoring in home or school, record review and IEP meeting attendance/ advocacy, transition services form preschool to kindergarten, and social skill/ play groups. This practice also does teacher trainings and in-services on a variety of special educations topics, including but not limited to co-teaching, benefits of inclusion, positive behavior management, and developmentally appropriate classroom design. I also work very closely with the families. Regularly scheduled progress reports are discussed with parents and other outside providers so that there is consistency and carry-over of the specific techniques/goals. Biography: M.Ed., Early Childhood Special Education George Mason University, B.S., Psychology, Mary Washington College, St. Coletta of Greater Washington, 2 years, Fairfax County Public Schools, Preschool Autism Program, 3 years, MOPS Inclusion preschool program, 4 years, private practice 1 year. Fully licensed Birth – 5 years. ANN BOYER, Ph.D. - BOARD MEMBER Tutors’ Forum LLC P.O. Box 393, McLean, VA 22101 703-821-6635, Fax: 703-821-6636 annbboyer@aol.com Services: Tutors’ Forum specializes in LD/ADHD. Our personalized, comprehensive service offers one-to-one, tutoring in home or at school, as well as Case Management. Tutors are professional educators, who are carefully selected on the basis of their qualifications, experience and interpersonal skills. K-adult. Phonics, Reading, Reading Comprehension, Writing, Spelling, Math, Executive Function, Foreign Languages and Test Preparation (SSAT, SAT, GED, GRE). Biography: B.A. University of London. M.A. and Ph.D. University of East Anglia, Norwich, England. Bi-lingual English/French. Kingsbury trained (1985). Twenty-two years experience of specialized tutoring and tutor coordinating in the Washington area. Founded Tutors’ Forum LLC in August 2000. BROOKE H. BRODY, LCSW-C, LCADC Program Director, Potomac Pathways 15720 Seneca Rd., Darnestown (Germantown), MD 20874 301-987-PATH (7284); Fax: 240-246-7851 brooke@potomacpathways.org Services: Potomac Pathways offers psychotherapy services for teens, young adults and families including: individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy, comprehensive substance abuse assessments, and school advocacy for students with learning differences. Potomac Pathways Aftercare is an outpatient recovery and relapse prevention program for teens who are returning home after attending residential therapeutic programs including outdoor behavioral health programs, such as wilderness therapy programs. Biography: Brooke is a licensed clinical social worker in the states of Maryland, and also a licensed clinical drug and alcohol counselor. He received his master's degree in social work from West Virginia University. His areas of specialization have been in the area of therapy with adolescents and young adults and their families, substance abuse treatment, advocacy for students with learning differences, and treatment of mood disorders. Brooke has worked with wilderness therapy programs out west as well as residential therapeutic programs for adolescents. He has also worked in Montgomery County, MD for several years as a clinical social worker with adjudicated and homeless youth. He has post-graduate training in numerous areas that affect the treatment of adolescents and young adults including: training in the understanding of learning differences with the All Kinds of Minds Institute; relapse prevention therapy (with Terrance Gorski and the Gorski CENAPS program); brief hypnotic psychotherapy (with the Milton Erikson Institute). Brooke is an avid hiker and photographer, and combines these two pursuits on regular excursions to national parks and wilderness areas. LEIGH ANN CAHILL – BOARD MEMBER Independent School Options 1015 North Quaker Lane, Alexandria, VA 22302 703-671-8316 lacahill@independentschooloptions.org www.independentschooloptions.org Services: Leigh Ann Cahill provides educational consulting and school placement for children entering Kindergarten through 12th grade. Preschool services are also offered through Independent School Options along with referrals for specialized educational therapies, tutoring and legal assistance. Biography: Leigh Ann Cahill is an educational consultant in the D.C. metro area. Leigh Ann began her teaching career in the Fairfax County Public Schools and then moved to The Potomac School in McLean. She has also been the director of the Counselor Intern Program for high school students since 1997. In 2000, Leigh Ann established Independent School Options to help families determine and provide for the educational needs of their children. Along with serving on the Board of Directors for The Auburn School, Leigh Ann is also the treasurer for WISER, and is a member of IECA (Independent Educational Consultants Association) and the ADHD Resource Group of Northern Virginia. She holds a B.A. degree from The College of William and Mary and a Masters in Education from George Mason University. SUE COOK CHRISTAKOS, JD Bass Educational Services, LLC 4229 Cherry Valley Drive, Olney, MD 20832 8296 Old Courthouse Rd. Suite C, Vienna, VA 22182 301-774-5211 Fax: 240-220-0654 info@basseducationalservices.com www.BassEducationalServices.com Services: We offer comprehensive college planning services for high school students with learning differences, beginning as early as freshman year. Families are guided throughout the college selection and admissions process. Services include preparation of a detailed and personalized college list; assistance with college visits, interviews, applications, and essays; review of psychoeducational testing and recommendations for college level accommodations; suggestions regarding high school course selection, extracurricular and community service activities, and standardized testing (SAT/ACT); assistance in fostering independence and developing self-advocacy skills. Biography: Sue Cook Christakos is a former attorney who, in this capacity, drafted policy pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). She has also served as a reading tutor for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), and contributed her time as an MCPS parent surrogate, wherein she advocated for students pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA). Sue currently works as a college counselor for students with learning differences, assisting them and their families during the college selection process to find the right "college fit". She has a BA in Psychology from Bucknell University, a Juris Doctorate from Georgetown University Law Center, and is an associate member of IECA. NANCY D. COLLETTA, Ph.D. 5225 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 313, Washington, DC 20015 202-966-7189, Fax: 202-244-3919 ndcolletta@verizon.net Services: Psychotherapy for infants and children up to twelve years of age. Parent counseling and school consultation. Goal directed therapy includes parent participation and school involvement where appropriate. Biography: PhD Cornell University, Post Doctorate George Washington University, Past Associate Professor University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore; Past Assistant Professor University of Maryland Institute for Child Study. Twenty-five years of consulting on child development programs in developing countries. Twelve years of providing evaluations and therapy for foster children (Virginia). VINCENT P. CULOTTA, Ph.D. NeuroBehavioral Associates 5655 Sterrett Place, Suite 320, Columbia, MD 21044 410-772-7155, Fax: 410-772-7156 vculotta@nbatests.com www.nbatests.com Services: Dr. Culotta provides comprehensive neuropsychological assessment and consultation services for children and adolescents with suspected attention, learning, or emotional difficulties. Educational advocacy, attendance at IEP meetings, neuropsychiatric consultation and service referrals are available at NeuroBehavioral Associates. Biography: Dr. Culotta is a board-certified neuropsychologist, M.S. and Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Memphis. Fellow of the American College of Professional Neuropsychology and the Maryland Psychological Association. Licensed Psychologist in Maryland and Virginia. DIANA DAHLGREN, Ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist 3615-F Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Virginia 22030 (703) 273-5653; Fax: (703) 904-9846 dianadahlgren@verizon.net www.drdianadahlgren.com Services: (1) Psychoeducational testing to assess ADHD, LD, and ED factors which may be impacting academic functioning. (2) Educational consultation and assessment for the purpose of gifted and talented, private school, kindergarten, and boarding school placement. (3) Full intellectual, educational, emotional, and personality testing of children, adolescents and adults. (4) Individual, family, and marital therapy with children, adolescents, and adults. (5) Forensic services, including court evaluations and child custody evaluations. Biography: Over 20 years in private practice in Fairfax, Virginia, specializing in psychological testing and evaluations. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Maryland, M.A. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Hawaii, and B.A. with Departmental Honors and University Distinction from Stanford University. Child Clinical Internship at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. Membership in the American Psychological Association (APA), National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology, Northern Virginia Academy of Clinical Psychologists (NVACP), Virginia Academy of Clinical Psychologists (VACP), and Virginia Psychological Association (VPA). Licensed in Virginia and Washington, D.C. Consulting psychologist in Child Psychiatry at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) since 1987and Law Enforcement Assessment Center (LEAC) since 1996. AMINESE C. DAISE, M.S. Let’s Talk Schools, LLC 13118 Brussels Way Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 (301) 806-2316 Fax: (202) 589-9979 adaise@mac.com Services: Mrs. Daise provides education guidance to families relocating to the Washington Metropolitan region. She assist families with school options for public, independent private and religious schools both day and boarding. Mrs. Daise advices families with children grades Pre-Kindergarten to 12 grade. Mrs. Daise will advice/assist students with resources and information on colleges in the US, Canada and the UK. Provides referral for testing, tutoring and consults with families for educational interventions. Biography: Aminese holds a M.S. in Counseling from The Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD. She has been involved in independent schools for over twenty years working with families seeking a quality education for their children. Her admissions experience began at Sidwell Friends School as an admissions office assistant, then Diversity Consultant in SFS Admissions, for several years Mrs. Daise was the Schools advisor for World Bank. Where she started the School Options Fair in the Main Complex of the World Bank and hosted the Spring College Fair. Ms. Daise visits days schools, boarding schools and colleges on a regular basis both in the Washington region, other states in the US and Canada. Aminese Daise is currently the Education Consultant for the International Monetary Fund. Member of ACA and NACAC. DIEDRE DENNIS, MA CCC/SLP Speech/Language Pathologist 919 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 1320 Vincent Place, McLean, VA 22101 703-850-0872 diedreslp@gmail.com Services: Providing diagnostic and therapeutic treatment for children ages 1-18 with communication delays or disorders. Targeted areas to include: language delays, articulation/phonological disorders, fluency disorders, pragmatic language delays, oral motor weaknesses, and auditory processing disorders. This practice specializes in early intervention and fluency disorders. Parents are an essential part of therapy process and are thus encouraged to observe and participate in therapy sessions at times. Parents are asked to encourage, support, and participate in the generalization of newly learned skills to everyday situations. Weekly and monthly progress updates are provided during the course of treatment to assist with generalization outside of the therapy setting. Biography: M.A. degree from the University of Central Florida, B.S. degree from the University of Central Florida. Lake County Public Schools, 5 years; Alexandria City Public Schools, 6 years; Pediatric Private Practice, 5 years; Parent Infant Education program through Better Speech Associates, 1 year; WeeHands Sign Language Instructor. Fully Certified and licensed. CHRISTINE F. DeROSA Take Wing! Educational Resources 200 Park Avenue, Suite 108, Falls Church, VA 22046 703-532-3370 take2wing@verizon.net Services: One-on-one tutoring, grades K-8. Focus on pre-reading, reading, spelling, written expression, & math. Homework support, study skills & organization, and SOL review also offered. Educational evaluations: Woodcock Johnson Psycho-Educational Batteries: Cognitive Ability and Academic Achievement. Biography: M.Ed. in Special Education, University of Oregon, 1974. B.Ed. in Elementary Education, University of Hawaii, 1972. Post-graduate studies at University of Virginia, Marymount University, and George Mason University, 1976-2006. Commonwealth of Virginia: Postgraduate Professional License: (endorsements: Mental Retardation, Learning Disabilities). “Highly qualified” status in English, Math, and Social Studies. Classroom experience: Fairfax County Public Schools (Virginia): 1976-2006, special education, K-6 (learning disabilities, mildly retarded, autism, emotional disability, ADHD). Eugene Public Schools (Oregon), 1973-1975, grades 1-2. JENNIFER DILLON, M.A. Math Specialist Tutoring Students of All Levels Washington, D.C. Metro Area 617.272.5795 jennifer.dillon@post.harvard.edu Services: Individual math tutoring for students of all levels, from arithmetic through calculus and statistics, specializing in students with LD and/or math anxiety. I provide students with the support they need to be successful in their math classes, thereby increasing their confidence and morale. In one on one sessions with students I am able to identify roadblocks and affinities, and work with an individual student's strengths and weakness to achieve understanding. Biography: B.A., Psychology and Mathematics, Mills College. M.A., Biostatistics, Harvard University. Visiting Instructor of Mathematics, Colby College, 2007-2008. More than six years of varied tutoring experience, including fourth-graders struggling to learn their math facts; high-achieving high school seniors taking AP calculus; women in their forties returning to higher education; and graduate students taking statistics. KEVIN D. DOHMEN, M.Ed Learning Consultant 21 West Caton Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301-1519 Work: (703) 683-9617 Fax: (703) 683-9617 kevindohmen@verizon.net www.kevindohmen.net Services: Specializes in developing specific, concrete strategies for students and adult professionals to maximize performance in school and/or workplace. Tutors LD/AD/HD students in grades six through graduate school in the areas of writing skills, study skills, organizational skills, and mathematics. Coaches professional adults diagnosed with LD/AD/HD on organizational, timemanagement, and writing issues. Tutors arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, probability, statistics, first-term calculus, biology, chemistry, physics, writing composition, reading comprehension. Edits academic, professional, and business writing. Biography: ABD in Math Education at University of Virginia (UVA), M.Ed. in Education from UVA (1985). More than 28 years of experience in education. Private practice since 1988. Experience as secondary English teacher and as secondary math teacher. Teaching experience with students with LD/AD/HD. ANN DOLIN, M.Ed. Educational Connections, Inc. 3923 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030 703-934-8282 ; Fax: 703-934-1212 ann@ectutoring.com www.ectutoring.com Services: Over 100 tutors provide one-to-one for all ages in students' homes anywhere in Northern VA, MD, and DC. Our services include educational coaching, SAT preparation, educational testing, kindergarten enrichment programs, and consultations. We specialize in assisting LD, AD/HD, and other struggling students by offering unique and multi-sensory learning strategies in both language arts and math. Our educational coaches focus on teaching organization, time management, and goal-setting skills. Many of our tutors are trained in various alternative reading programs such as LindaMood Bell, Phono- Graphix, Wilson, Read Naturally, and Great Leaps. Biography: Ann Dolin has a B.A. Child Psychology/Teacher's Certification Program from Pine Manor College; a M.Ed. in Special Education (LD, ED, MMR) from Boston College. Over 14 years of classroom teaching and tutoring experience in Fairfax County; specializing in educational testing, IEP writing and implementation, parent consultations, and alternative reading curriculums. JOAN L. EHRLICH, Ph.D Education Consultant 5242 Dunleigh Drive, Burke, VA 22015 PH: (703) 975-4772 FAX: (703) 503-0779 jehrlich11@aol.com Services: Independent Education Consultant helping families find special education, emotional growth, therapeutic, and transitional schools and programs, for children, adolescents, and young adults. These programs serve clients with ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Asperger's Syndrome, Depression and Anxiety, Addiction, Eating Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and other areas of need. In addition to working closely with the families, I visit schools and programs across the country to make sure that I can offer the best fit possible for the families and their children. Biography: Thirty years in Special Education, in teaching and administration, in public and private schools, with children, adolescents, and adults, most recently with Fairfax County Public Schools. B.A., University of Arizona; M.Ed., University of Arizona; Ph. D., Gallaudet University. Memberships include: NACAC, HECA, AHEAD, and WISER. PAULA ELITOV, Ph.D. 6262 Montrose Road, Rockville, MD 20852 301-738-7990, Fax: 301-738-7990 pelitov@aol.com Services: Assessment of social skills, emotional development and behavioral difficulties in children. Play therapy. Parent coaching. Individual psychotherapy for children, adults and families. Psychological testing including diagnostic testing and admissions testing; School consultation. Biography: Ph.D., University of Michigan in Clinical Psychology and School Psychology. Completed APA approved internship. Director of Early Intervention Program at Hawthorn Center, Michigan; Psychologist, Beaumont Hospital Neuroeducation Center; 18 years experience in settings serving young children. Nine years at Lourie Center. Currently in private practice. GINGER FAY, MA Fay College Counseling, LLC 1207 Floral Street NW, Washington, DC 20012 202-420-0793 gfay@faycc.com www.faycc.com Services: Fay CC offers one-on-one, in home college counseling to students and families in the Metro Washington D.C. area. Our mission is to support students and their families at every stage of the college application process— from compiling an initial list of colleges to consider to on-time completion of applications to making a final selection for college and course of study. We also offer authoritative expertise on scholarships: need-based, merit-based, and athletic. Biography: Ginger Fay, Director of Fay College Counseling, has worked in college admissions and counseling for 15 years. She has served as an Admissions Officer at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, an Associate Director of College Counseling at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, and Director of Alumni Relations at Sidwell Friends School in Washington, DC. Ginger has read over 6,000 college applications including nearly 20,000 essays, counseled more than 300 students and spoken at 50 high schools on the topic of college admissions. She is the author of "Don’t Die for Duke; Putting Joy and Common Sense Back in the College Admissions Process," which appeared in the Winter 2003 issue of Independent School magazine. Ginger holds a B.A. and Master’s degrees from Duke University. She is an associate member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) and a member of the National Association of College Admission Counseling (NACAC). PATRICE B.F. GARVER, Ph.D. Psychological and Psychoeducational Services 2915 Hunter Mill Road, Suite 21, Oakton, VA 22124 703-281-6058, Fax: 703-938-6203 Services: Our office addresses special needs and problems of children and adolescents and their families. Emphasis is upon a thorough therapeutic program that can involve evaluation, program planning, educational consultation, support services, and counseling. Biography: Dr. Patrice Garver has Masters Degrees in the areas of special education and clinical/developmental psychology. She received her Ph.D. in developmental psychology specializing in assessment and treatment of children with learning and behavioral problems. She is experienced in working as a special educator, a learning disabilities specialist, a psychometrician, a school psychologist, and presently in private practice. PAUL M. GEDO, Ph.D. 7 Owens Court, Rockville, MD 20850 301-294-6515, Home: 301-251-9586, Fax: 301-251-9586 pmgedo@erols.com Services: Psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults hoping to understand and improve their emotional well being, academic performance, social relationships, or sense of identity. Psychological testing and personality assessment, ages seven to adult. Parent counseling. Special interests: adolescent mood difficulties, multi-handicapped children, and the interaction between emotional and cognitive barriers to learning and adaptation. Biography: I am a former middle and high school English and social studies teacher, with M.A. and M.A.T. degrees from Brown University. My Ph.D. is from the University of Chicago’s Committee on Human Development. I am a former staff psychologist (1988-1998) and Chief Psychologist and Director of Psychology Training (1998-2001), CPC Health/ Chestnut Lodge Hospital. I am a Clinical Associate Professor, The George Washington University, and an Instructor, Washington Psychoanalytic Institute. In addition to private practice, I have been an individual and group therapist at two multi-disciplinary schools, Windsor School (1989-1992) and The Lodge School (1988-2006). CHERYL GEDZELMAN - BOARD MEMBER Tutoring for Success, Inc. 13159 Applegrove Lane, Oak Hill, VA 20171 703-390-9220, 301-838-7640, Fax: 301-390-9202 cherylg@tutoringforsuccess.com www.tutoringforsuccess.com Services: Tutoring For Success provides professional home-based tutoring by a diverse collection of extremely competent and talented tutors. We offer tutoring for all subjects, including math, sciences, language arts, French and Spanish. Tutoring is tailored to each student’s needs, including attention to organizational and study skills. We have tutors who are trained and experienced in test prep, primarily for SAT and ACT, and tutors who specialize in working with students with special needs, such as ADHD, dyslexia, and executive functioning issues. We select and screen our tutors carefully and look for qualities such as intelligence, communication skills, honesty, integrity, and enthusiasm. All of our tutors have teaching or tutoring experience and a minimum of a college degree. Home-based tutoring provides undivided attention from the same tutor every time. We serve students in MD, DC, and VA. Biography: Cheryl Gedzelman has an MA in Curriculum and Teaching from Columbia University and a BA in Anthropology from the University of Chicago. Before moving to Washington in 1993, she taught 5th and 6th grades in New York City. She has been tutoring students of all ages in math, language arts, and study skills since 1980. She founded Tutoring For Success, a family owned business, in 1994. SHERYL GILBERT, M.S. Academic Coaching 5402 Surrey Street, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-656-1753 (home); 301-742-5651 (cell) Sgilbert.tutor@gmail.com Services: Diagnostic testing and remediation for students with persistent difficulties in mathematics, from elementary school through geometry. General remediation for students with learning difficulties affecting organization, memory, writing and test preparation. Enrichment in mathematics for the highly gifted. French grammar, literature and conversation. Biography: Primary and secondary education in Paris, France (bilingual in French). B.A., Brandeis University; M.S., University of Pennsylvania in Biology. M.A. in special Education, American University and The Lab School of Washington. Worked with The Math Center (Persis Herold), Bill Stixrud and Associates, School Support Services, The Lab School and Resources for Inner City Children (RICH). Offering private tutoring after school and weekends at my home. Also presently tutoring at Edmund Burke School and Caesar Chavez Charter High School. Member, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and Independent Schools Mathematical association of Washington. CAROLE T. GIUNTA, Ph.D. 1430 Highland Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-565-0093, Home: 301-565-3739, Fax: 301-565-3754 drgiunta@giunta-associates.com www.giunta-associates.com Services: My specialty is psychological assessment and consultation, primarily with adolescents and adults. A large portion of my practice consists of psycho-educational evaluation of children and adolescents with learning disabilities, ADHD, learning differences or school adjustment problems. I also conduct social-emotional assessments. Neuropsychology, forensic evaluation and expert witness testimony, are additional areas of concentration. Biography: Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, University of Vermont; completed APA approved internship; B.S. in Psychology, University of Washington. Extensive clinical experience in a wide range of inpatient and outpatient settings. Private practice specializing in assessment 1994 -present. Licensed psychologist (MD, DC, VA). JUDITH M. GLASSER, Ph.d. Director, Child and Family Services Chesapeake ADHD Center of MD 8607 Cedar St., Silver Spring, MD 20910 Phone: 301-562-8448, Fax: 301-562-8449 Services: Psychological and educational testing and psychotherapy for children of all ages. Comprehensive psychological evaluations are conducted to explore sources of difficulty for children who are struggling. The possibility of learning disabilities, attention difficulties as well as emotional problems are examined via interviews, test data as well as review of prior records and behavioral observation when indicated. Particular area of interest is in the area of coexisting conditions. Results are thoroughly explained to parents and consultation with other professionals is provided with parental permission. Biography: Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Catholic University of America in 1979. Private Practice in northern Virginia for the past 21 years doing psychotherapy and psychological testing. AMY GLEKLEN, ACC, MBA, MS Next Game Plan 14 Greentree Court, Bethesda, MD 20817 301-642-9950; Fax: 301-760-7566 coachamy@nextgameplan.com Services: Amy Gleklen coaches teens to help them discover their uniqueness, find their passions, and explore careers for the future. She employs assessments and coaching techniques (Myers-Briggs, Strong Interest and Knowdell Values Card Sort) to clarify strengths, interests, values, and personality type. She works with the teen alone, as well with the family, to help teens build their playbook for the future. Next Game Plan helps teens find their fit and/or purpose in life, resulting in clarity and increased motivation to succeed in school and beyond. Biography: MBA, Wharton Business School of the University of Pennsylvania; BS, Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania; MS Counseling, Johns Hopkins; Certified Leadership Coach, Georgetown University; more than 20 years of business and management experience in the corporate and nonprofit worlds; member of the International Coaching Federation and the Wharton Club. KARA GOOBIC, PsyD Chesapeake ADHD Center of Maryland 8607 Cedar Street Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-562-8448 ext. 12, Fax: 301-562-8449 karagoobic@chesapeakeadd.com Services: Specializing in AD/HD and autism spectrum disorders. Autism Spectrum evaluations to assess and diagnose autism and pervasive developmental disorders across ages, developmental levels and language skills; Individual, and family psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults; individual and group social skills training, parent counseling and school consultation. Biography: PsyD, (Clinical Psychology) The Chicago School of Professional Psychology; Post Doctoral Fellowship, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Division TEACCH, worked exclusively with children and adults on the autism spectrum. Previous employment with Kennedy Krieger Center for Autism and Related Disorders; DC Public School system - St. John's Community Services; Northwestern University Hospital Developmental Evaluation Clinic, Chicago, Illinois. Adjunct Faculty Argosy University. Memberships: APA, CHADD, MCASA and MPA. STEVEN ROY GOODMAN, M.S., J.D. 3554 Appleton Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008 202-986-9431 steve@topcolleges.com www.topcolleges.com Services: Comprehensive admissions counseling for applicants to colleges, universities, and graduate schools. Services include: self-assessment exercises, school selection, development of personal admissions portfolios, and professional guidance with application materials. Highly practical education planning includes: selecting courses and activities effectively; identifying the right schools for you; comparing academic programs knowledgeably; evaluating your competitiveness at various universities; making the strongest possible case for your applications; training for on-campus and alumni interviews; writing powerful admissions essays and personal statements. Biography: International authority on U.S. college and graduate admissions. Former faculty member at Wharton and Haverford, with degrees in public policy (Duke), higher education (Penn), and law (USC). Book Author: College Admissions Together: It Takes a Family. Undergraduate Admissions Advisory Committee, University of Pennsylvania. Over twenty years, coached 1,700+ students and families through the application process: colleges, graduate programs, business, law, and medical schools. Member, Independent Educational Consultants Association. Certified Educational Planner. Former Executive Director, College Admissions Institute of America. GLENNON GORDON, LICSW 4545 42nd Street NW, Suite 201, Washington, DC 20016 202-966-1145 ext. 3 glennontg@verizon.net www.livingoptimally.com Services: Psychotherapy: Consultation to individuals, couples and families using a Bowen family systems approach. When individuals, couples and families experience challenges in their physical, emotional, or social functioning, it is an opportunity to learn new patterns to live more optimally. To develop the ability to take responsibility for the part one is playing in interactions is central to a decrease in symptoms. Neurofeedback: Neurofeedback is brain wave training. It is a process where the brain learns more efficient patterns. Brain wave patterns are optimal when they are flexible and respond effectively to any situation. Individual brain patterns arise from life experience. The more rigid the brain patterns are, the more likely a person experiences symptoms or discomfort. Neurofeedback is a non-invasive therapy that is helpful for symptoms such as anything on the anxiety spectrum, depression, insomnia, attention problems, migraines and chronic pain. Biography: MSW from New York University in 1996. Post-graduate training at The Georgetown Family Center and the Bowen Center for the Study of the Family. RHONA M. GORDON, M.S. Speech/Language Pathologist 7300 Pomander Lane, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-986-1503, Fax: 301-986-1211 Rhona@thinkingorganized.com www.thinkingorganized.com Services: Provide diagnosis and treatment for children, adolescents and adults presenting with expressive and receptive language disorders. The practice specializes in problems relating to executive function, organization and timemanagement. Groups are held for all ages to teach strategies for effective management of school work, written language and short and long-term memory. Parent groups focus on ways to implement effective systems into daily routines. Adults work individually to organize their professional careers or daily goals. Biography: M.S., Ithaca college, B.S., psychology, New York University. Instructor and clinical supervisor, State University of New York, 2years; curriculum development for the Early Childhood Language Program. Montgomery County Public Schools, 3years; private practice, over 30 years. Founder, Thinking Organized, LLC. Fully certified and licensed. Rhona has published a book entitled Thinking Organized for Parents and Children. It has recently won five awards. The Thinking Organized Workbook that accompanies the book is also available. JUDITH GREENBERG, PH.D School Finders, LLC 15 W. Montgomery Ave, Suite 101, Rockville, MD 20850 Phone: 301-251-0904, Fax: 301-251-0865 schoolfind@aol.com www.schoolfinders.net Services: As an educational consulting firm we offer many services to students and parents including: advocacy, a homeschool tutoring facility for middle & high school ages, after school tutoring-all grades and subjects, private school, college & post-grad placement, prep for SSAT and an independent flex testing site, prep for SAT/ACT, and expert witness testimony in family law cases. We specialize in helping students with special learning needs, but we happily work with all types of learners. Biography: Dr. Judith Greenberg is a graduate of The College of NJ, has a Masters degree in Special Education from the U of MD, and a Ph.D. in Community Education. She is also the author and co-author of 37 books for children and teens, published by Scholastic, Silver-Burdette, and Raintree. Dr. Greenberg has been an educator for forty years and specializes in working with students who need individualized attention. Her consulting firm, School Finders, LLC, is designed to help families who are seeking to improve their child's educational experience as well as to determine the best place for their child to enjoy school. Dr. Greenberg has written numerous educational and online articles dealing with educational topics and has taught at the U of Md, The Catholic University of America, Montgomery Community College, Morgan State University, and also served as the Teacher Outreach Advisor for the Environmental Protection Agency in Washington, DC. BRIAN K. GRUBER, Esq. Attorney at Law 7315 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 900 - N, Bethesda, MD 20814 301-657-3777, Fax: 301-657-1610 Brian.Gruber@BKGPC.com Services: Legal representation and advocacy for special education students and their families, including: Due process hearings. Serving DC and Maryland, and with affiliated attorneys in Virginia. Sliding scale/contingency fee available. JANE HANDLER Academic and Language Skills Tutoring 1131 University Boulevard West, #1810, Silver Spring, MD 20902 301-649-5287 janehandler@janehandlertutoring.com www.janehandlertutoring.com Services: Work with students with learning issues in grades one through twelve on enhancing performance in reading, composition, comprehension, critical thinking, oral and written expression, and executive functioning as appropriate. Focus on each student's learning style and roadblocks to learning to encourage the development of strategies and accomodations that improve functioning in school and encourage development of self-esteem more generally. I am accessible to parents and teachers, often contacting teachers about a student's difficulties or progress in order to tailor sessions to academic expectations. I am experienced in advocating with schools on behalf of students. Biography: Retired lawyer and policy analyist. BA Columbia University; JD Yale University Law School. Professional interest mostly in social policy. On retirement in 2002, became a tutor because enjoy working with young people. I am certified in Phono-Graphix and Junior Great Books, trained in Wilson Overview, Read Naturally, Lindamood Bell Visualizing and Verbalizing. Take seminars periodically to learn new techniques and improve skills. Member of LDAMC and CHADD. DONNA HART, Ed.D Educational Pathways 7048 Wilson Lane, Bethesda, MD 20817 202-237-8947 Fax: 202-237-6879 dhart@edpathways.net www.edpathways.net Services: Donna Hart is co-founder of Educational Pathways. We work with families whose children are struggling in their current educational and social settings as a result of unmet learning needs, emotional or behavioral problems, developmental delays, or because they just don’t seem to fit. Meeting with both the child and the parents, we help parents better understand their child, prioritize their child’s educational needs, identify schools and other support services, provide referrals, build parent’s advocacy skills, and enhance parenting skills. We visit and evaluate educational programs locally, across the region, and nationally to provide optimal options to families. Biography: Donna Hart has worked in education for more than three decades. She is an experienced teacher trainer, special needs educator, writer, administrator, community activist, and speaker on family and educational issues. She has had extensive involvement with innovative learning strategies, sensory integration deficits, social and emotional disabilities, behavior modification, multicultural education, gender equity, GT/LD, and early identification of developmental delays. She has significant experience with children who have pervasive developmental disorders, brain injury, and she is knowledgeable about issues relating to post-secondary education for students with special needs. She founded and published Parent & Child, an awardwinning magazine for parents in the DC area, and was the executive editor of Parent to Parent: Raising Kids in Washington, a guidebook for parents and adolescents. Donna received her masters and doctoral degrees from George Washington University. RUTH C. HEITIN, Ph.D. Educational Consulting Services 100 West Howell Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301 703-519-7181, Fax: 703-519-4737 info@educationalconsultingva.com www.educationalconsultingva.com Services: Evaluation, consultation and advocacy for students with special needs and their families. Support for all areas of special needs including deafness -- Dr. Heitin is proficient in sign language. Assessment and diagnosis of learning disabilities, evaluation of the impact of attentional issues on achievement and articulation of academic difficulties through comprehensive psycho-educational evaluation. Support offered in all steps of identification and service provision for special education through consultation and advocacy, assuring that the rights of the special needs child are protected. Independent assessment of school services and consultation with school personnel to support the individual needs of the client. Coordination of services with other professionals to meet the educational needs of the child. Biography: Ph.D. in Special Education Administration, M.A. in Special Education. More than 30 years of experience in education; in private practice since 1992. Experience as teacher and administrator in public and private programs with past certification as teacher and elementary school principal. Teaching experience with students with learning disabilities, emotional disabilities and deafness. College and graduate school instructor in reading, evaluation and special education. ETHNA HOPPER, M.A., C.E.P. The School Counseling Group, Inc. 4725 MacArthur Blvd., N.W., Washington, DC 20007-1904 202-333-3530, Fax: 202-333-3212 ethna@schoolcounseling.com www.schoolcounseling.com Services/Biography: Ethna Hopper is the founder of Washington’s preeminent educational consulting firm, The School Counseling Group, Inc. The firm provides professional, common sense advice to families regarding school choices K-12. Our counselors visit and evaluate public and private day schools, and boarding schools throughout the country, so that they can advise families on their options. Meeting with both the child and the family, our counselors focus on the “why” of school success or failure and provide recommendations so that the child can be both happy and successful. Ethna Hopper, a cofounder and ex officio board member of WISER has a B.A. and H. Dip. in Ed. from University College, Dublin and an M.A. in Guidance and Counseling from Catholic University in Washington, DC. She founded her educational counseling practice in 1979 after working in independent day and boarding schools for 16 years as a tutor, teacher and diagnostician and now has nearly 50 years of experience in education. Ms. Hopper is presently a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). GEORGIA K. IRVIN, I.E.C.A., C.E.P. 4701 Willard Avenue, Suite 227, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-951-0131; Fax: 301-951-1024 georgia@gkirvin.com www.gkirvin.com Services: For more than 30 years Georgia Irvin has worked with schools and families to identify options that maximize each child's potential. She specializes in students entering nursery through post graduate high school, and she provides insightful guidance and appropriate solutions for short- and longterm educational goals. By regularly visiting local day schools, traditional and therapeutic boarding schools, and therapeutic programs nationwide, she and her associates remain well informed. SSAT and other testing is available. Biography: An educator and former Director of Admission and Financial Aid at Sidwell Friends School, she is the author of Georgia Irvin's Guide to Schools in Metropolitan Washington, Independent and Public, Pre-kindergarten - 12, Second Edition and Blueprint for Admission, published by the Secondary School Admissions Test Board (SSATB). She is a frequent speaker on admission topics. SSATB awarded her the prestigious national honor, The William Bretnall Award, for “exemplary contributions to independent school admissions.” BRIE JEWELER-BENTZ, M.A., PSY.D. The School Counseling Group 4725 MacArthur Blvd., NW, Washington, DC 20007 202-333-3530, Fax: 202-333-3212 brie@schoolcounseling.com www.schoolcounseling.com Services/Biography: Dr. Jeweler-Bentz assists students and families through the college selection and application process; she also works with students who are interested in a GAP year option. In addition to providing a comprehensive college search, Dr. Jeweler-Bentz also helps students write strong and effective college essays, prepare for college visits and interviews, complete their applications in a timely fashion, and manage their stress effectively. Dr. Jeweler-Bentz joined the School Counseling Group in 2009 and is a native of the Washington, DC area. She attended Montgomery County public schools, earned a B.A in Psychology from the University of Michigan, and received her Psy.D. in clinical psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She has several years of clinical experience in university counseling centers, has taught at the undergraduate and graduate level, and has been a private academic tutor and college advisor for local area high school students. Prior to her graduate studies, Dr. Jeweler-Bentz worked as an undergraduate admissions officer for the University of Michigan. Dr. Jeweler- Bentz has a clinical interest in the stress that often accompanies the college application process, and she has given several lectures on the topic. BARBARA B. KELLER, Ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist 3615-F Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, VA 22030 703-280-2931 Fax: 703-992-9881 mail@drbarbarakeller.com www.drbarbarakeller.com Services: Psychoeducational testing to assess academic, emotional, and behavioral functioning. Evaluation of ADHD, LD and ED. Educational assessment and consultation for school placement decisions. Psychotherapy with children and adolescents, including cognitive behavioral therapy for stress and anxiety. Biography: Over 20 years experience specializing in psychological testing and evaluations. Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology from University of Virginia, 1978. Formal cross-training program in School/Child/Clinical Psychology, University of Virginia, 1982-84. Internship in Child Clinical Psychology at Children’s Hospital National Medical Center, 1984-85. Also, M.Ed. in Special Education from College of William and Mary, 1973. Clinical Instructor in Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, 1978-1982. Consulting psychologist with Child Psychiatry Branch, NIMH at NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD from 1985 to 2008. Consulting psychologist with Law Enforcement Assessment Center since 2006. Licensed in Virginia and Washington, D.C. Membership in National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology, American Psychological Association, Virginia Psychological Association, and Northern Virginia Academy of Clinical Psychologists. LESLIE A. KENT, MA Educational Consultant, Certified Educational Planner 2713 Verily Court, Oakton, VA 22124 703-620-9297 lakent@cox.net Services: Leslie Kent provides personalized assistance with the college admissions process for high school students and their families. Comprehensive services include college search, organizational strategies to keep the student on task and on time, assistance in developing an effective resume, preparation for college visits and interviews, and evaluation of essays and personal statements. Leslie believes that an organized approach helps reduce the stress that sometimes accompanies the admissions process, allowing the family to enjoy this exciting stage of the child’s educational career. Biography: Ohio Wesleyan University, BA; University of Northern Colorado, MA. Member: IECA, NACAC, PACAC, HECA.30 years of experience in public education with15 years as a school principal. Nominated as Principal of the Year on 2 occasions. Led numerous information & training sessions for parents on adolescent issues & effective parenting. Served as Director of Instruction for 37 schools in Fairfax County, VA. Taught English & served as teacher/consultant for the Northern Virginia Writing Project Presenter at local, state & national conferences on the teaching of English & on topics affecting school administrators. Participated in IECA’s Practices & Principles Institute. (2004). Certificate in College Counseling, UCLA (2006). Certified Educational Planner (2007) J. MICHAEL KIRCHBERG, M.A. Tutorial Service 4545 42nd St., N.W., Suite 212, Washington, DC 20016 202-244-4017, Fax: 202-244-4781 tutormichael@earthlink.net Services: Informal diagnosis, remediation and routine instruction - particularly with long-term learning problems, including poor study skills, motivation problems and low self-esteem; English language and literature (reading and writing); math (through advanced algebra/pre-calculus), thinking skills and various learning skills; thesis/dissertation organization, writing and editing; consultation and evaluation regarding classroom instruction; SSAT, PSAT, SAT, GRE, GED, Achievement Test preparation for adolescents and adults. Biography: B.S., U.S. Naval Academy; M.A., Oxford University (Rhodes Scholarship); M.A., University of MD. Teacher, Georgetown Day School, 7th- 12th Grades, 1971-1987, English, Social Studies, learning skills, math. Private practice tutorial work: 1977 to present. RITA J. KIRSHSTEIN, Ph.D. College Connections LLC 1721 Webster Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011 202-726-1721 Services: Full-service college counseling that includes: assistance in identifying colleges that mesh with students’ interests and background; organization of the application process from start to finish; the development of realistic schedules to ensure that all deadlines are met and all components of the application get the attention they need; advice on college visits; guidance on high school courses and activities; recommendations on whether to take the SAT or ACT, or both, and how best to prepare for the test; assistance in identifying and applying for financial aid; advice on whether transitional opportunities between high school and college – such as work, travel, or internship programs – should be explored; and workshops for school and community groups. Biography: Ph.D. in Sociology. Over 25 years of experience studying higher education access and finance issues. College counseling for 5 years. Authored and co-authored numerous reports on college costs and financial aid, including Straight Talk about College Costs and Prices (developed for the National Commission on the Cost of Higher Education), Managing the Price of College; Access and Accessibility: Refocusing Financial Aid in Maryland; and Workforce Contingent Financial Aid: How States Link Financial Aid to Employment. JEFFREY L. KRASKIN, O.D. 4600 Massachusetts Ave., N.W., Washington, DC 20016 202-363-4450 jlkraskin@starpower.net Services: General optometric practice with emphasis on preventive vision care for the infant to adult. Services include examination, evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions of the vision system including visual training therapy. Biography: B.S., Elementary Education, Jacksonville University; B.S., Biological Sciences, Pennsylvania College of Optometry; O.D., Pennsylvania College of Optometry. Internship in vision therapy at the Orange Grove Center for the Mentally Retarded. Member: Optometric Extension Program Foundation, College of Optometrists in Vision Development, Optometric Society of DC, DC Board of Optometry, American Foundation for Vision Awareness. KATHY KUHL Homeschool Consultant Learn Differently LLC 2965 Treadwell Lane, Herndon, VA 20171 (703) 715-8697 Kathy@LearnDifferently.com www.learndifferently.com Services: Your link to the homeschool community, Kathy Kuhl prepares parents to decide whether to homeschool, and equips new and experienced homeschoolers. Advises parents on planning, curriculum, transition, and resources of the vast homeschool community, including group classes, support, and training. Advises on homeschooling through high school, and on teaching children with learning challenges, including AD/HD, LD, ASD, and giftedness. Kuhl speaks at national patient advocacy conferences (CHADD, ASA, and LDA) and homeschool conventions, as well as to smaller groups. Her experiences as teacher, homeschool leader, and parent of a struggling learner equip her to connect communities and resources. Biography: B.A. English, William and Mary. Taught math in MCPS, homeschooled child with LD and AD/HD, grades 4-12. Author, Homeschooling Your Struggling Learner, 2009. Dr. Larry Silver wrote, “Her scope of knowledge, sensitivity to the needs of parents who homeschool, and the list of resources are invaluable.” Barbara Ingersoll, Ph.D., said, “Anyone who lives or works with a struggling learner – parent, educator, or mental health professional – will find many a valuable nugget to aid in their work with these children.” Kuhl leads a support group for homeschoolers with children with special needs, and co-administers C.H.E.S.S., offering academic courses for teen homeschoolers. MARY KILLAY LAVAYEN, M.A. Educational Consultant Independent School Options Day School Placement, Pre-K-8th Grade, Relocation Specialist 1320 Vincent Place, McLean, VA 22101 (202) 262-3726; Office: (703) 671-8316 Extension 3 Fax: 703-997-8438 mlavayeniso@gmail.com www.independentschooloptions.com Services: Mary Killay Lavayen provides educational consulting and school placement services for families with children from PK - 12th grade. Mary works to give families school placement options for their children that best fit the academic and social needs of the child. Mary is knowledgeable about a range of educational opportunities in the DC metropolitan area, including independent, public, language immersion, international and Catholic schools. In addition, Mary is knowledgeable about relocation and cross-cultural issues that face both US and international families that are new to the area after having lived outside of the US. Finally, Mary is fluent in Spanish, and can offer services in Spanish to both families and schools. Biography: B.A. Georgetown University; M.A. International Management from the School for International Training, Brattleboro, Vermont. Certificates in Management Coaching and Professional Training from Georgetown University. Member of WISER and Associate Member of IECA. Mary has over 25 years work experience in education both in the US and overseas. Mary’s teaching experience began when she worked as the coordinator of an elementary school in coastal Peru where she managed teachers and taught both primary grades and ESL. After receiving her Master’s degree, she worked as a cross-cultural trainer at a small cultural foundation in Madrid, Spain. There she designed and taught courses about the American High School to Spanish teenagers preparing to live in the US. In addition, she counseled Spanish families about educational opportunities in the US. For many years, Mary worked on a USAID-funded scholarship program at Georgetown University that placed students from Latin America in school placements throughout the US. Her roles included assisting with the selection of the schools that would best “fit” the needs of the students, and monitoring the student’s personal and academic adjustment. In addition, Mary trained students, families and school staff about how to effectively deal with cross-cultural differences. Finally, Mary has extensive experience working in Arlington and Fairfax County public schools, as well as Catholic schools located in the DC metropolitan area. SHELLEY LEVINE College Bound 10224 Falls Road, Potomac, Maryland 20854 301-765-7909 Fax: 1-240-209-8367 slevine183@aol.com shelleylevinecollegebound.com Services: Shelley Levine helps students and their parents understand the available options leading to educational and career success. Through ongoing personalized counseling, students can make informed choices, successfully complete the application process, and achieve their individual goals. Services include: evaluation of student’s academic credentials, recommendations of high school courses, suggestions for standardized testing, development of appropriate college list, assistance in the application process, guidance in planning productive campus visits, and suggestions for creative summer activities. Biography: Shelley Levine has been assisting high school students and their parents navigate through the college admissions process for over 18 years. Founder of Mathworks, Shelley is also a well-recognized expert in the field of standardized test preparation. Shelley received a BS in Secondary Education from the University of Maryland and has a Certificate in College Counseling from UCLA Extension Program. She is a member of NACAC, IECA, HECA, and ACCESS. Shelley is currently the College Counselor for the Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington and has written articles for The Washington Jewish Week and Potomac Gazette. She has been a featured speaker at JCC College Fair and area PTA College Workshops. ABIGAIL LEVRINI, Ph.D. Psych Ed Coaches, PLLC 1707 Belle View Blvd, Suite C-2, Alexandria, VA 22307 46179 Westlake Dr., Suite 3, Potomac Falls, VA 20165 5225 Connecticut Ave NW, Suite 705, Washington, DC 20015 571-289-9729, Fax 703-768-6264 info@psychedcoaches.com www.psychedcoaches.com Services: Specialize in AD/HD coaching & counseling for children, adolescents, and adults with problems in executive functioning. Assist clients who are dealing with issues such as procrastination, lack of motivation, lack of concentration, poor time management, poor self-regulation and associated anxiety or depression. Help clients set and meet long term goals and weekly objectives. Biography: Ph.D. (Counseling Psychology and School Psychology) Florida State University; 2009 International CHADD Convention featured speaker on AD/HD Coaching; Psych Ed Coaches is a concept based on Dr. Levrini's firsthand doctoral-level research and studies in ADHD and ADHD coaching, as well as more than five years of experience as an ADHD coach and therapist. TINA M. MAYNIGO, M.A. College Specialist. Independent School Options 1320 Vincent Place, McLean, VA 22101 703-671-8316, 202-277-8314 703-997-8438 tmaynigoiso@gmail.com www.independentschooloptions.com Services: Provide comprehensive list of college consultation services to students and their families: college planning and college application assistance packages, college planning workshops, application boot camps, college survival counseling, and hourly consultation. Packages and workshops include assistance with college search, activity profile, essays, interview preparation, selecting courses, summer activity planning, financial aid/scholarships, gap year, transfer and graduate school advice. Consultation services can be in-person or remote (via phone and email); workshops and application boot camps for groups as small as 3 are quality low-cost alternatives to one-on-one consultations. Biography: M.A. Education, Counseling track from George Washington University; B.A. Psychology, Assumption College; Over 20 years experience as an academic counselor with American University and college placement advisor with the Kuwait Ministry of Education; Ability to work with a diverse group of students: traditional, international, adult, transfer, special needs; Knowledge of wide range of academic programs: liberal arts, pre-med, pre-law, engineering, art, film, business, MBA and other graduate degrees; Currently College Admissions Consultant for Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions; Member of WISER, NACAC, and associate member of IECA. KIM McWHORTER Tutor Rx 9502 Lindale Drive, Bethesda, Maryland 20817 301-523-2116 kimtutorrx@aol.com www.Tutorrx.com Services: Kim provides private tutoring to students who may be experiencing learning difficulties, in need of strategy instruction, remediation, or curriculum based support. Specialty areas include instruction of organizational skills, time management, test prep, note taking skills, study skills and strategies, language arts, reading, writing, math, as well as homework help in all subjects from elementary level through high school. Experience working with students of all abilities, with emphasis on students diagnosed with learning disabilities, ADHD, and ADD. Biography: M. Ed. in Special Education, Learning Disabilities, University of Maryland; B.B.A. in Finance, University of Miami. Classroom experience in Montgomery County Public Schools at Elementary, Middle, and High School levels, with past certification as Special Education Teacher grades 1 through 12. Experience tutoring students with learning disabilities, ADD, ADHD, as well as students with learning difficulties, since 1997. Completed Tutor Training at The Kingsbury School, 2006. SANCI MICHAEL Strategies, Skills, Self-Esteem 6339 Executive Boulevard, Rockville, MD. 20852 4608 Nottingham Drive, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-656-5811 scm65@columbia.edu Services: Diagnostic-prescriptive tutoring, coaching, and case management for adolescents and adults to improve executive functioning and reduce learning difficulties at school, home, and work. Strategy and skill instruction are tailored to client’s needs, talents, and interests and applied in a variety of courses and settings. During the school year, course demands affect pace, focus, and materials; during the summer, services are more responsive to client needs and interests. Typical goals: (a) enhance comprehension, memory, planning and productivity (especially writing and timely completion of assignments), (b) improve study efficiency, effectiveness, and test-taking, and (c) reduce procrastination, disorganization (time, thought, materials), anxiety, and frustration. With parent and professional input (psycho-educational testing, school reports, family concerns, other professionals’ observations), the coach/ tutor and client collaboratively develop and implement plans for learning and behavior change as well as accommodations at home and school. Advocacy skills are modeled and taught. Until goals are achieved, monitoring, adjustment, practice and reinforcement are provided in face-to-face meetings, supplemented by phone or e-mail. Through personalized tutoring and coaching process, the client develops self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-advocacy. Standardized test prep: GRE, ACT, SAT, AP Exams, LSAT, MCAT, professional licensing exam (med boards, law, etc.) Biography: Graduate work Columbia University, U of MD, and George Mason. Academic Therapist, trained and employed by Tri-Services and Center School. 10 years classroom experience (regular and special ed; college and secondary level). More than 20 years private practice experience. CHADD certified Parent to Parent trainer, coordinator of Montgomery County CHADD chapter, past chair of LDAMC tutor referral committee, member International Dyslexia Association and GT/LD Network. Keeps current with participation in associations, workshops, and conferences. *BILLY MILLER, M. ED., CSCSD BG-7 Mathematics Tutoring, LLC 1530 Key Blvd. #1131, Rosslyn, Virginia 22209 (240) 601-6677 BG-7@Live.com Services: Billy provides Private Tutoring in Mathematics for students Elementary through High School in need of remediation, test taking strategies, curriculum based support, or homework help. Experienced in working with children with learning disabilities, emphasizing the importance of the "Language of Math", as a means to a better understanding of fundamental concepts as well as the big picture. "Both my children believe they are good at Math; not because they were both geniuses but because they have the confidence that they can master the next math concept when Mr. Miller teaches it".-Lynn F (Potomac, MD Parent). This statement is indicative of the respect, support , and trust Billy Miller has earned in the Potomac community, over the last 22 years as a Classroom Teacher, Football, Basketball, Strength & Conditioning Coach, and Mathematics tutor. Biography:** M. Ed. in Education, University of Virginia; A.B. Elementary Education, Elon University; Over 25 years classroom teaching experience in Independent schools in VA and MD. Outstanding Teacher Award, Bullis Middle School 1989 and Who's Who Among America's Teachers 2006. Private tutoring in the DC Metro area 22 years. Certified Middle School Mathematics Teacher in VA. and MD. Professional member of LDAMD (Learning Disabled Association of Maryland). Professional member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association and CSCSD certified by the NSCA. JOSEPHINE GALLIHER MURPHY, PH.D.* Educational Psychologist Help with Homework 806 Crooked Crow Lane, Great Falls, Virginia 22066 301-461-1651 JGalliher8@aol.com Services: We tap into your child's true potential and help them achieve success. *Help with Homework* provides support and guidance to students of all ages. Instructional strategies are taught across content areas specifically, reading, writing, math, science, English, and history. Services range from at home help to in school observations, at school instruction, behavior analysis, long/short term organization and planning. Similarly, students will begin to identify their intrinsic motivations with coaching and support. Advocacy for both the student and parents is part of the entire process and collaboration with teachers and other school or health related professionals is established and promoted. Biography: Dr. Murphy earned her Ph.D. from The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC in Educational Psychology specializing in assessment and evaluation. Her Masters Degree was earned from Pennsylvania State University in Special Education with expertise in early intervention. She has taught students across the age span i.e., elementary, secondary, undergraduate, and graduates. She was an Assistant Professor of Special Education at Adelphi University in Garden City, New York for over four years. Currently, she runs her private practice, continues to advocate for students, lecture, present workshops, and training programs across the country. PATRICIA MURPHY, RN, MPA Certified Educational Planner 8724 Preston Place, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-718-7790, Fax: 301-718-7710 1-866-718-7710 Nationwide www.pattimurphy98@gmail.com Services: Assessment, planning and placement of children, adolescents and young adults with special needs in residential as well as local schools and programs. Biography: As a behavioral health nurse and certified educational planner, Patti has over 25 years of experience providing for the special needs of children and young adults. Well versed in diagnostic psychological, medical and educational criteria for appropriate placement, Patti uses this knowledge base, along with frequent travel to and evaluation of schools/programs/ facilities, to provide a “goodness of fit” for each client she counsels. As an NYU grad, Patti utilizes her extensive national network to better serve her client base. KATHLEEN G. NADEAU, Ph.D. Director, Chesapeake Center for Attention and Learning 8607 Cedar Street, Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-562-8448 drkathleennadeau@gmail.com www.chesapeakeadd.com Services: Nationally recognized authority on ADHD and author of numerous books on the topic offers assessment of ADHD and LD; individual and family psychotherapy related to problems of learning and attention; school consultations; college consultations related to ADHD and LD. Biography: Kathleen Nadeau earned her Ph.D. from the University of Florida in 1970 and has worked in the DC Metro area since that time. She edited the first book for professionals on the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD and is also known for her work promoting the understanding of girls and women with ADHD. She has appeared on the Today Show and the Early Show and is a recipient of the CHADD Hall of Fame award for her leadership in the field of ADHD and was selected as a Top Therapist of 2009 by the Washingtonian Magazine. Dr. Nadeau is a frequent lecturer both nationally and internationally on topics related to ADHD. She is a member of the American Psychological Association, the Maryland Psychological Association, and CHADD (Children and Adults with ADD). IVAN M. NALIBOTSKY, CCPS - BOARD MEMBER Capital Solutions Group 6901 Rockledge Drive, Suite 800, Bethesda, Maryland 20817 301-838-4112 Fax: 301-838-0623 ivan@capsolutionsgroup.com www.capsolutionsgroup.com Services: Financial planning strategies to reduce the cost of private school and/or college to have more available for retirement. We accomplish this through a combination of cash flow, tax, academic, and financial aid strategies. Biography: Ivan Nalibotsky is a graduate of Florida International University in Miami, is accredited and certified by the National Institute of Certified College Planners, and teaches college and retirement financing courses for Montgomery College Workforce Development, as well as for many high schools/corporations. MICHAEL OBERSCHNEIDER, PSY.D Ashburn Psychological Services 44110 Ashburn Shopping Plaza, Suite 251 Ashburn, VA 20147 704 South King Street, Suite 1, Leesburg, VA 20176 Work: (703) 723-2999 Fax: (703) 723-4144 info@ashburnpsych.com www.ashburnpsych.com Services: Ashburn Psychological Services is the premiere clinical psychology and psychiatry practice in Loudoun County. APS offers a wide array of testing, psychotherapy, medication and consultation services for children, adolescents, adults and families. APS is comprised of board certified pediatric/ child, adult, geriatric and forensic psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, clinical psychologists, school psychologists, speech and language and auditory processing specialists and life coaches. APS takes a team approach to assessment and treatment for clients from 2 years through the life span. Biography: Congratulations to Dr. Michael Oberschneider for being named a “Top Psychologist” in the Washingtonian Magazine for his work with children and adolescents. A renowned psychologist, Dr. Oberschneider has received numerous awards, has written for the Washington Post as syndicated columnist and has been featured on TV and national public radio. Dr. Oberschneider is the founder and director of Ashburn Psychological Services, Loudoun County’s premiere multidisciplinary private mental health practice with offices in Ashburn and Leesburg, Virginia. Dr. Oberschneider and the team at APS can provide clients with state of the art assessment and treatment from 2 years of age through the life span. AMY M. PACOS, PSY.D. Licensed Psychologist/Clinical Neuropsychologist Clinical Neuropsychology Services, LLC 200 North Glebe Rd., Suite 1050 Arlington, VA 22203 Phone: 703-875-0475 ext. 1 Fax: 703-875-0476 drpacos@clinicalneuropsychologyservices.com www.clinicalneuropsychologyservices.com Services: Dr. Pacos provides a wide range of evaluation, therapy, and consultation services for children, adolescents, and adult populations. Her office is conveniently located in Arlington, VA. Weekend and evening appointments are available. Evaluation Services: Dr. Pacos specializes in individualized neuropsychological assessments, detailed analysis of test results, personalized intervention strategies, and support in implementing recommendations. Dr. Pacos also offers psychological, psycho-educational, and pre-admissions testing for private schools. Therapy Services: Individual therapy, family therapy, and group treatment services are offered to treat a wide range of conditions including: depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, adjustment difficulties, school problems, stress, among many others. Consultation Services: Dr. Pacos also offers a wide variety of consultations services including: consultation regarding school and work placement, second opinion consultation, review of neuropsychological records and testing, assistance with behavior plans and IEPS, consultation with advocates and special education attorneys, community presentations, in-service presentations, and school-based presentations. Biography: Dr. Pacos earned her Bachelor's degree from Allegheny College in Meadville, PA with a double major in Psychology and Education. She earned her Master's and Doctoral degree (Psy.D.) from the American School of Professional Psychology-Washington, DC Campus. During her graduate career, Dr. Pacos trained at several local settings including, Children’s National Medical Center, Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital, Walter Reed Army Medical Center and several private practice settings. She completed a one-year formal Internship in Clinical Psychology and Pediatric Neuropsychology at the Children’s Hospital in Michigan and a two-year formal Postdoctoral Fellowship in Clinical Neuropsychology at two local private practice settings. Dr. Pacos is the co-founder and co-owner of Clinical Neuropsychology Services, a private practice in Arlington, Virginia (www.clinicalneuropsychologyservices.com). She is an active member of the National Academy of Neuropsychology, the American Psychological Association – Division 40 (Neuropsychology), International Neuropsychology Society (INS), Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), and the Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) organization. CHARLES E. PARKS, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist 6505 Wiscasset Road, Bethesda, MD 20816 1325 18th Street, NW, Suite 202, Washington, DC 20036 301-320-3266 drparks@ceparks.com Services: Psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and adults. Parent counseling. Family and couples therapy. Diagnostic evaluation and psychological testing. Clinical consultation and supervision. Biography: Licensed clinical psychologist (DC, VA, MD). Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology, The George Washington University; Director, The Center Clinic, The George Washington University Center for Professional Psychology; Teaching Analyst and Co-director Child Psychotherapists Training Program, Baltimore-Washington Institute for Psychoanalysis. Former teacher of learning-disabled children. PAUL K. PENNIMAN 3522 Davenport St., N.W., Washington, DC 20008 202-364-4263 paul@mathteachingtoday.com www.mathteachingtoday.com Services: Mathematics diagnostic testing and tutoring from elementary school through calculus and probability and statistics. Tutoring in the physical sciences also available. Biography: B.A., Johns Hopkins University, 1978. Over thirty years experience teaching and tutoring math in DC area, five years as math department head at the Edmund Burke School. Member, National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and Independent Schools Mathematical Association of Washington. Founded Resources for Inner city CHildren (RICH) in 2003, which provides WISER-like resources to underserved students in Washington, D.C. RALPH G. PERRINO, M.P.A.; ED.D - WISER PRESIDENT Northern Virginia Tutoring Service, L.L.C. P.O. Box 6621, Falls Church, Virginia 22040 703-534-5779; Fax: 703-534-3307 drperrino@nvtutoring.com www.nvtutoring.com Services: Northern Virginia Tutoring Service provides individualized one-onone tutoring, academic enrichment, and academic coaching services from elementary through college and graduate levels in the areas of organization and study skills, writing, reading, and test-taking strategies. Assistance is also available in the areas of math (at all levels), statistics, all sciences, PSAT and SAT preparation, LSAT, PRAXIS Exam, SOL Exam, Spanish, French, Chinese, Japanese, German, and ESL, special education services, report/term paper preparation, research techniques, college application essays, and thesis / dissertation assistance. Homework assistance is provided if needed. Our tutors come to the home, school, or other convenient public facility. Tutors are carefully screened and possess teaching experience and degrees in specialized areas. Biography: Doctorate, Education Leadership, George Mason University, 1998; Masters Degree, Public Administration, George Mason University, 1980; Graduate work, Sociology, University of North Carolina 1971-74; Bachelor's Degree, Sociology, Catawba College, 1971. Assistant Professor (Adjunct) of Behavioral Sciences, Northern Virginia Community College, 1986 - present; Founder and Director, Northern Virginia Tutoring Service, LLC, 1995 - present; Former teacher in Arlington County Public Schools Interlude Program for emotionally disturbed youth, and Homebound Teacher in Arlington Special Education Division; Over 20 years of teaching and tutoring experience with elementary through college-age students. Consultant to Northern Virginia Community College in area of strategic planning; Dr. Perrino has prepared essays in professional journals and position papers/ management studies for institutions of higher education and local governments; Management and public policy experience with Fairfax County Board of Supervisors as Chief of Staff to County Board Member. Founder and Board President of Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization, Arlington, Virginia (1986-1998); Board Member, Residential Program Center, Arlington, Virginia (1998-2009); Corporate sponsor, Falls Church City Business in Education Partnership; Member, Falls Church Education Foundation; Corporate sponsor, Arlington County Public Schools Partners in Education Program; Chairman, Greater Falls Church Chamber of Commerce 2009-2011. Outstanding Citizen Award, Arlington County Public Schools, 1992; Nominated for Outstanding Citizen Award, Arlington County Public Schools, 2005; Arlington School Administrators 2006 Civic Award; Arlington County James B. Hunter Community Hero Award, 2009. ISOBEL RAHN Isobel Rahn Consulting 7912 Falstaff Road, McLean, VA 22102 703-475-4160 McLeancollegeconsultant@gmail.com Services: Isobel offers individual comprehensive college consultation to students and their families in Northern Virginia and nearby Maryland. Areas of support include college admissions (college search, testing. visits, applications, interviews, resumes, essays), financial aid and scholarships, course selection, summer programs, careers and organizational and time management skills. Her goal is to help all students find those colleges, 2-year or 4-year, which match where a student would like to spend their college years while reducing the stress which can accompany the process. Biography: Over the last 15 years at McLean High School in Fairfax County Public Schools, Isobel worked with over 6000 students as the College and Career Specialist. Previously, she taught Social Studies. Narrowing her focus to working with all high school students in their post-secondary planning, she guides them by focusing on their interests and skills to college acceptance. She has a BA in History from Hofstra University, a MA.Ed. from George Washington University, and credits from the University of Virginia in curricular areas and college advising. She is a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling and the Potomac and Chesapeake Association for College Admission Counseling. BRITT H. RATHBONE, LCSW-C, BCD, CGP Rathbone & Associates 5942 Hubbard Drive, Rockville, MD 20852 301-230-9490 4701 Sangamore Road, Suite 210N, Bethesda, MD 20816 301-229-9490 Fax: 301-230-9865 britt@rathboneandassociates.net www.rathboneandassociates.com Services: Practice specializes in adolescent mental health. Individual, group and family psychotherapy, parent guidance, and DBT. Numerous ongoing single sex and coed therapy groups for middle school, high school, and college students. Treatment of full range of adolescent problems, including conditions associated with ADHD, PDD/Asperger's disorder, anxiety disorders including social anxiety, depression, aggression, and academic underachievement. Treatment is focused and goal directed, using a short-term model when appropriate. Public speaking services available. Biography: MSSW Columbia University, 1986, Director, Rathbone & Associates 1990 - present. On the graduate school faculty of the National Catholic School of Social Service at Catholic University and JSSA's postgraduate certification program for advanced clinicians. Named one of Washington's best therapists for adolescents by Washingtonian Magazine. Coordinator of Adolescent Services at the Jewish Social Service Agency 1988- 1996, and Branch Supervisor, Upper Montgomery County JSSA 1991- 1996. Presenter of hundreds of workshops, speeches and presentations for adolescents and parents. Formerly worked with adolescents in New York City at The Door. LAURA RUBINOFF, M.S. Speech/Language Pathologists/Learning Disability Specialists 6505 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD 20817 301-493-4695, Fax: 301-493-6520 Services: Diagnostic and therapeutic services to infants, children and adolescents with delays in speech and language acquisition, speech and language disorders and language learning disabilities; combines computer technology and traditional therapy to remediate auditory processing, reading and writing; liaison between the family and school personnel; educational advocacy; workshops for all ages interested in improving social language interactions. Biography: B.S. degree from Northwestern University; M.S. degree from the University of Michigan. Adjunct faculty member at American University from 1979-1997. Served as a consultant to public and private agencies addressing the relationship between communication skills, academic learning, and social competence. Fully certified and licensed. RICHARD RUTH, Ph.D. 11303 Amherst Ave., Suite 1, Wheaton, MD 20902 301-933-3072, 301-933-0118 rruth@erols.com Services: Individual psychotherapy for children and adolescents; family therapy; psychological and neuropsychological evaluations; consultation with schools, day care centers, hospitals. Services provided in Spanish and English. Areas of particular expertise and interest: cross-cultural therapy, physical disability, trauma, mental retardation, forensic evaluation, major mental illness. Biography: PhD, clinical psychology, Yeshiva University; BA, New School for Social Research; post-graduate training in psychoanalysis, family therapy, neuropsychology. Currently Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology, The George Washington University; formerly supervising psychologist, CPC Health/Chestnut Lodge Hospital. Bilingual in Spanish and bicultural. CANDACE SAHM, MA ED/HD 7920 Longridge Court, Cabin John, MD 20818 301-229-9515 coach@candacesahm.com www.candacesahm.com Services: Candace Sahm, MA Ed/HD is an experienced ADHD Coach who works with both students and adults as they master strategies for personal and professional goal achievement. She has a special interest in helping students with ADHD/LD successfully navigate the transition into and through college. She is currently involved with research, support and advocacy for ADHD students. She is a tireless advocate for raising awareness about ADHD and its impact and will be leading a workshop during the 2008 International CHADD Conference. Biography: Ms. Sahm is a coach, educator and parent of two children with ADHD. She holds a Master of Arts Degree in Special Vocational Education from George Washington University, and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education and Elementary Education from the University of Maryland. Ms. Sahm has over 90 CEU Credits in the areas of ADHD/LD, Coaching, Executive Functioning, and Remedial Reading. She was also a Tutor for the Lab School of Washington, DC, The Norwood School, the Bullis School, to name a few. Ms Sahm has taught numerous Study Skills Courses as well. She is a member of ACO, ADDA, and CHADD. She is also Founder and Principal of Positive Learning Experiences (PLE), a highly regarded private tutoring center in suburban Maryland. She has also presented at conferences such as; the Council for Exceptional Children and was very involved with ACCD (American Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities.) and gained extensive experience with program development for special needs groups, including the physically and mentally challenged. PLE is known for its ADHD expertise, a coaching approach to tutoring and SAT-ACT prep courses. Ms. Sahm has over 20 years of experience. DIANA M. SAVIT Savit and Szymkowicz, LLP 7315 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 601N, Bethesda, MD 20814 301-951-9191, Fax: 301-718-7788 dms@savitlaw.com www.bowsslaw.com Services: We are a law firm which provides general legal services to individuals and businesses. Among the areas in which we do a significant amount of work are special education, disability rights, other civil rights and employment matters, general business practice, estate planning and probate and family law. We practice in District of Columbia and Maryland state and federal courts. Biography: BA Princeton University (1973); J.D. George Washington University Law School (1976). General attorney, U.S. Customs Service, 1976-1979. Trial attorney, D.C. Corporation Counsel, 1979-1985. Private practice, 1985-present. Past president, Women's Bar Association of D.C. Member, D.C. Advisory Committee on Education of the Handicapped, 1980-81, 1984-85. Current board member, Chelsea School (vise chair), Women’s Bar Association Foundation of the District of Columbia (vice president); WISER immediate past president. ZOLA DINCIN SCHNEIDER, M.A. The College Advisory Service 5812 Warwick Place, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-654-5889 Zdi.schneider@verizon.net Services: As the founder of THE COLLEGE ADVISORY SERVICE in 1973, I have vast experience working with college bound students. I guide each student through the rigors and details of the process through an in-depth individual approach, dealing with academic scheduling, testing, college choices, campus visits and interviews, the application and essay and any college-related issues that students and/or parents wish to work on. I am the author of several books and articles on the college process, including Campus Visits and College Interviews; Countdown to College (both College Board books); and The College Connection (Xerox Press). Biography: U Wisconsin-Madison, B.A.; Columbia U, M.A. Member: NACAC. PCACAC, ACCESS, American Ass’n University Women. Formerly, Educational Consultant Chestnut Lodge, Yale Psychiatric Institute; Editorial Staff, The Saturday Review. LEE SCHNEYER, Ed.D., M.B.A. Licensed Psychologist 10401 Old Georgetown Road, Suite 208, Bethesda, MD 20814 301-493-9801, Fax: 301-493-9801, Home: 301-315-2080 drschneyer@comcast.net Services: I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of children, adolescents and families, with subspecialties in the psychology of diabetes, ADHD, and learning disabilities. I enjoy testing, especially in complex situations where the combination of intelligence, personality and psychoeducational testing is needed to determine the underlying problem. My orientation is psychodynamic; I also employ behavioral principles with parents and play therapy with young children. Biography: After completing my B.A. in psychology in 1972, I taught mathematics at the Barrie School and at Georgetown Day School. While employed as a counselor at the GWU inpatient psychiatric unit, I completed a masters degree in Counseling (1976). I then began a long-term internship at the Child Guidance Service of the Jewish Social Service Agency (JSSA), where I received training in child, adolescent, family and couples therapy, psychological testing and group work. During this period, I also worked as a school psychologist for Montgomery County Public Schools (part-time) and as a diagnostician for the GWU Reading Center. Upon completion of my doctorate in Counseling (1981) from GWU and being licensed as a psychologist in Maryland (1982), I worked for several years as a staff psychologist at JSSA. I gradually moved into private practice as a child and adolescent psychologist. ALAN L. SIKES, O.D. Developmental-Behavioral Optometrist Burke Professional Center, 9002 Fern Park Drive, Burke, VA 22015 703-978-5010, Fax: 703-978-5011 www.dralansikes.com Services: General Optometric practice emphasizing prevention, enhancement, and remediation of vision problems. My approach is holistic and can involve vision training therapy to help remediate learning related vision problems. I emphasize nutrition, and vision hygiene methods to help prevent vision problems from developing and for those that have already developed. Biography: B.A. Edinboro State College, PA; B.S., O.D., Pennsylvania College of Optometry; Member of College of Optometrists in Vision Development (C.O.V.D.) and the Optometric Extension Program (OEP). I was appointed for 1 year to the VA Optometric Association Task Force on Learning Disabilities. MARCIA LIBES SIMON College Planning Service, LLC 8309 Raymond Lane, Potomac, MD 20854 301-983-2804 (phone and fax) mlsimon2@yahoo.com www.simoncollegeplanning.com Services: College Planning Service, LLC guides families through the complex decisions they must make in the college admissions process. In addition to advising about the selection of colleges, services include: suggestions for course selection, extracurricular activities, summer programs, and volunteer opportunities; information about college entrance exams and interpretation of results; referrals for test preparation, tutoring, and financial aid; schedules and checklists designed to help students meet all deadlines; assistance with applications and essays. Biography: Yale University, BA; recipient of Bates Traveling Fellowship. Georgetown University, JD. Joined College Planning Service in 1999. Volunteer with College Summit, a national organization helping low income and first-generation students gain access to higher education. Member of the Yale Alumni Schools Committee. Professional memberships: IECA, NACAC, PCACAC, ACCESS. EMILY A. SNYDER, M.A. Managing Director, Know Your Options, LLC School Placement and College Planning Services Fairfax County, VA 703.817.0797 emily@knowyouroptions.net www.knowyouroptions.net Services: Emily A. Snyder, founder and managing director of Know Your Options, an educational consulting firm located in Fairfax County, Virginia, provides assistance to families in need of educational guidance. While Emily focuses on helping high school students and their families navigate the college process, she has the background experience, knowledge and skill set to guide families through all aspects of their academic decision making process. Biography: M. A., School Counseling Psychology, Marymount University, Arlington, VA. B. A., English, Washington and Jefferson College, Washington, PA. Former Member, Fairfax County Public Schools Board of Education. Member, Board of Directors, College Access Fairfax; Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA); National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACAC); Higher Educational Consultants Association (HECA); and Association of Consultants and Counselors for Educational Support and Services (ACCESS). Author of numerous articles on educational topics, Emily frequently serves in a leadership capacity in local and national organizations dedicated to the professional development of educational consultants. Emily is currently Chair of IECA’s College Committee. CAROL SPRINGER, M.Ed. Wake, Kendall, Springer, Isenman & Associates 5247 Wisconsin Ave., N.W. Suite 4, Washington, DC 20015 202-686-7699 813, Fax: 202-362-9633 cspringer@wakekendall.com www.wakekendall.com Services:* Diagnostic-Educational testing for children and adults. Consultation with schools. Counseling concerning educational alternatives for children and adults. Workshops for schools, professional organizations, parent groups. Independent school admissions testing. Biography: B.A. Philosophy, Manhattanville College. M.Ed. Special Education/Learning Disabilities, The American University. Tutor Training, The Kingsbury Center. Educational Diagnostician, The Kingsbury Center 1974-1990. Director of Diagnostic Testing, The Kingsbury Center 1983-1990. Private practice 1991. ELIZABETH STOFF, M.Ed. Educational Consultant PO Box 1311, Rockville, MD 20849 301-294-7319, Fax: 301-294-3751 estoff@comcast.net Services: Special education advocacy and consultation with families and schools regarding appropriate school services and placement, attendance at school meetings and IEP development, parent training in legal rights and advocacy skills, presentations to parent organizations and groups. Expertise in complex developmental disorders, chronic illnesses and learning disabilities. Biography: Over 25 years experience in special education including teaching, coordinating a private school program for children with multiple learning and behavioral needs, working as an education specialist in a major pediatric hospital. Masters degree, special education, Temple University, 1976; Bachelors degree, special education, SUNY College at Buffalo, 1973. DAVID L. STORPER - BOARD MEMBER President, Prep U Tutoring 7625 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814 202-255-0133 david@preptutor.com www.preptutor.com Services: My name is David Storper, and I raise test scores. It’s one-on-one. It’s one hour a week. I will not waste your valuable time with stuff you already know or don’t need to know. My students have all the techniques, content, timing, and stress management skills needed to ace the SAT, ACT, SAT Subject Tests, SSAT, GRE, GMAT, and LSAT. “I actually look forward to prep class…” is a phrase I hear often. To raise your score significantly, it takes hard work, but it does not have to be dull. If you put in the effort, I will have you laughing all the way to your goal score and beyond. Biography: David Storper graduated from Brandeis University in 1995 with a B.A. in Politics. After working on Capitol Hill, he was an editor for CNN and a producer for BookTV on C-SPAN2. A standardized test instructor for six years, David founded Prep U in 2005. PETER A. STURTEVANT, Jr., M.A., M.A.L.S. Director, The School Counseling Group 4725 MacArthur Blvd., NW, Washington, DC 20007 202-333-3530; Fax: 202-333-3212 peter@schoolcounseling.com www.schoolcounseling.com Services/Biography: Consultant for middle school, high school, college-age students, and young adults, Mr. Sturtevant is a former teacher, coach, and administrator at The Maret School in Washington and former Head of School at The Gunston Day School on the Eastern Shore. A native Washingtonian, Mr. Sturtevant attended Potomac School and Landon before receiving his B.A. in Religion from Bowdoin College, his M.A. in English from Middlebury College, and an M.A.L.S. with a concentration in Counseling Psychology from Skidmore College. Mr. Sturtevant’s practice includes the counseling of young people and young adults with learning and/or emotional issues. As do the other consultants in the Group, Mr. Sturtevant spends approximately one week of each month visiting programs, schools and colleges throughout the country. Mr. Sturtevant is presently a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). MARY LOU SULLIVAN, M.Ed. MLS Educational Consultants, Inc. 1029 Broad Branch Ct., McLean, Va. 22101 Office: (703) 356-0780; Cell: (703) 915-3092 Fax: (703) 734-6121 Msulli4612@aol.com Services: Students served include those who are struggling in school with issues related to diagnosed and undiagnosed learning disabilities, ADHD and executive functioning disorder. Skill areas taught included reading, math writing, and academic areas affected by the skill areas. Individual and group tutoring services provided for children 5 through 18 in a wide range of academic areas with additional emphasis on organization and efficient production of academic work. In addition support of college age students is available in limited areas. Formal diagnostic testing is available to explore learning styles and academic skill levels for the purpose of educational programming or eligibility for special education. Parents are supported in their requests and design of 504s and IEPs. Parents are accompanied to meetings with teachers, Local screening Committee Meetings, 504 and IEP meetings. Biography: Mary Lou Sullivan earned undergraduate and graduate degrees in elementary education, special education and teaching emotionally disturbed children at Boston College. She received certification in teaching children with learning disabilities through the University of Virginia. Mrs. Sullivan received post-graduate training in behavior management, learning theory, and attention deficit disorder at UCLA and California State University at Los Angeles. Mrs. Sullivan has taught in Brookline, Massachusetts; Fairfax County, Virginia; and La Canada, California school systems. She was part of the pilot program for Fairfax County Public Schools Learning Disabilities Resource Programs. She has been in private practice in McLean since 1981. PAUL TEBBETS 2100 Lee Highway, #217, Arlington, VA 22201 202-321-8250; Fax: 202-318-3038 paul.tebbets@gmail.com Services: Educational tutoring, Washington, DC, metropolitan area, 2004- present. Math (from Pre-Algebra through Calculus and Statistics), English (reading and writing at all levels), Executive Function (organization and study skills), Test Prep (SSAT, PSAT, SAT, GRE and others), Reading skills, Writing skills. Students range from grade school through graduate school. Students are primarily located in or near DC; some are located in Europe (tutoring is conducted using the Skype internet communication system). Biography: Harvard University BA; Stanford University Graduate School of Business MBA; Kingsbury Tutoring Center—training in 2005, designation as Master Tutor in 2006 (the Kingsbury Tutoring Center is associated with the Kingsbury School in Washington, DC, specializing in educating students with learning disabilities). Approx. 3500 hours tutoring to date. PAMELA M. TEDESCHI, M.S.ED., IECA, C.E.P. 4701 Willard Avenue, Suite 227, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-951-0131, Fax: 301-951-1024 pam@gkirvin.com www.gkirvin.com Services: Pamela Tedeschi is an associate at Georgia K. Irvin and Associates, an educational consulting firm known for its insightful assessment of children and wise counsel to parents regarding independent and public schools in metropolitan Washington, and boarding and therapeutic schools nationally. In addition to her consulting with families, she provides the following services for clients: administers achievement tests, mentors for the SSAT, and tutors. Biography: Education: B.A. in Elementary Education, Emory University; M.S. Ed. in Special Education, (Course Concentration in Learning Disabilities and Behavior Disorders) S.U.N.Y. Binghamton; post graduate courses in School Administration and Gifted Education, Georgia State University. Experience: In public schools: Teacher in New York, Georgia and Maryland; Department Head of special education program; Hands on Science teacher and teacher mentor; Director of a preschool. In independent schools: Teacher at the McLean School of Maryland. Other: Featured speaker on radio talk shows about learning differences; Leader of discussion groups on testing, special education, and behavior management for parents and teachers; Tutor of children with learning differences. JOH THOMAS, Ed.D The AD/HD College Success Guidance Program 9451 Silver King Court, Fairfax, VA 22031 703-849-8414, Fax: 703-359-8330 jthoma3540@aol.com www.ADHDCollegeSuccess.com Services: *The AD/HD College Success Guidance Program* was developed by Dr. Jon Thomas and grew out of the lessons learned during his more than 20 years of work with transitioning high school and college students. After successfully reorienting hundreds of students who had failed their first attempt at college, he developed a program that incorporated the overlooked needs that contributed to the initial failure of this special population. The Program provides training in these specific areas of need during the school year and summer prior to college and continues support and trouble-shooting services during weekly follow up sessions by phone, email, IM, and teleconference throughout the first year of college. Biography: Dr. Thomas holds a Virginia license as "Licensed Professional Counselor", and is also a Certified National Counselor, Certified National Rehabilitation Counselor and Nationally Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. After attaining his Masters Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and later his Doctorate in Counseling and Human Development at George Washington University, he continued Post-Doctoral studies in Marriage and Family Therapy at Virginia Tech. Additional training included a two-year Post- Doctoral program in Ericksonian Hypnotherapy and Solution-Focused Therapy at the American Hypnosis Training Academy. In addition, Dr. Thomas has extensive training in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), Psychodrama, and Men's Work. Prior to entering private practice twenty years ago, Dr. Thomas served for five years as Project Director and later Principal Investigator for a School-To-Work Transition Project for young adults with Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficit Disorder. He is currently president of The Pineridge Counseling Center, a private practice specializing in treating persons with AD/ HD and Learning Disabilities, as well as the founding director of the ADHD College Success Guidance Program. DANIEL TURETSKY, Psy.D. 4809 St. Elmo Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814 - 301-913-5947 1010 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 505 Washington, DC 20007 - 202-210-5947 Services: Individual, group, family and couples psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults; social skills/ relationship groups for elementary, middle school and high school students; counseling for parenting skills and behavior management techniques; psychodiagnostic evaluation; school consultation. Specializing in learning disabilities, ADHD, social skill deficits, low self-esteem, depression, shyness, chronic illness, adoption and divorce issues, marital and parenting issues, anger management, anxiety. Biography: Psy.D., School/Child Clinical Psychology, Yeshiva University. Previous employment with Lab School of Washington, Psychiatric Institute, DC Commission on Mental Health Services. Recent presentations include workshops on learning disabilities, attention disorders, childhood and adolescent depression, substance abuse, psychodiagnostic assessment, coping with chronic illness, the “holiday blues.” Past Secretary, WISER Board of Directors. GLORIA KAY VANDERHORST, PH.D., LLC - BOARD MEMBER 8701 Georgia Avenue, Suite 713, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 Phone and Fax: 301-578-8760 gkvanderhorst@gmail.com www.drvanderhorst.com Services: Individual treatment of adults and couples using an Integrative approach of Client Centered and Cognitive Interpersonal Therapy to facilitate growth. Christian and inter-faith counseling of individuals and couples. Child centered counseling that honors individual strengths allowing the child to take ownership of disabilities and address issues of anxiety, school performance, peer relationships and parent-child dynamics. Team building increases communication with school systems, teachers, psychiatrists, physicians, coaches, tutors, and student disability services. Biography: Ph.D. from Bowling Green University, Bowling Green, Ohio, Internship in Family Systems at Sinai Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland. Former tenured Assistant Professor of Psychology at Towson University, Towson, Maryland. Former Director of Vanderhorst & Associates, a multi-disciplinary practice in Baltimore, Maryland. Former Director of Child and Family Services at the Chesapeake ADHD Center of Maryland in Silver Spring, Maryland. Affiliations: Diplomat, American College of Forensic Psychologists, Maryland Psychological Association, American Psychological Association. Dr. Vanderhorst has been in practice for over 30 years providing psychotherapy and psychological assessment focusing on the early identification of LD and AD/HD. She uses Integrative Psychotherapy combining Client Centered and Cognitive Interpersonal Therapy and is trained in Family Systems. She has a subspecialty in working with men and is considered an expert in the treatment of men with anxiety resulting from previously unidentified ADD or LD. She has worked closely with physicians, school counselors, tutors, child advocates, lawyers, and coaches. She is skilled in helping couples to repair their marriage relationships, working to integrate the couple's faith and spirituality with the process of healing and growth. She is currently in private practice in Silver Spring, Maryland. BRUCE VINIK Vinik Educational Placement Services, Inc. 6500 Seven Locks Rd., Suite 218, Cabin John, MD 20818 301-320-9711, Fax: 301-229-1815 bruce@vinikeps.com www.vinikeps.com Services: Vinik EPS offers comprehensive and individualized services to families who would like help with the college admissions process. Services include the evaluation of academic records and learning styles, the identification of appropriate colleges, help with the preparation of applications, guidance about standardized testing, campus visits and interviews, and assistance with the final choice of college. Biography: Bruce Vinik worked for more than twenty years as a teacher and administrator in Washington area independent schools. He was Director of College Counseling and Director of Admissions at Georgetown Day School. He also served as both a middle and upper school principal in local private schools. He holds a B.A. and M.A. from Duke University and has served as an alumni interviewer for the Duke Admissions Office. He is a Certified Educational Planner and a member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, the National Association for College Admission Counseling, and the Potomac and Chesapeake Association for College Admission Counseling. VIRGINIA REYNOLDS VOGEL, Ed.S. Educational Guidance Service 3006 Dent Pl., NW, Washington, DC 20007 202-342-1979, Fax: 202-342-2646 Services: Educational counseling for school and college choices. Parent/ student interview is followed by one or more sessions where appropriate independent schools, colleges, or alternative programs are identified. Assistance is given with interviewing skills, application materials, summer activities and curriculum decisions. Review of school or college choices and a follow-up completes the counseling process. Biography: M.A.(Counseling), 1969, New York University; Ed.S. (Higher Education and Counseling), 1976, The George Washington University. Former Admissions Counselor, N.Y.U. Graduate Business School. Educational Program Counselor, George Washington University. Director of College Counseling, Georgetown Visitation. Member: Independent Educational Consultants Assoc., National Assoc. of College Admissions Counselors, Access. Certified Educational Planner. JEAN H. WARD, Ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist Fairfax Psychological and Educational Consultants 3615-F Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Virginia 22030 10286 Johns Hollow Road, Vienna, Virginia 22182 703-385-1777, Fax: 703-759-3046 JeanWard@cox.net www.DrJeanWard.com www.FairfaxConsultants.com Services: College counseling and self-care programs for high school and college students, individual and family therapy with adolescents and adults. Specialties in eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia nervosa and compulsive overeating), transitions in life, adjustment and motivation, stress management and translating core strengths into a calling in life. Special interest in working with the "B student" to identify the best college fit and to thrive. The college preparation package includes psychological and educational assessment, counseling, consultation and recommendations for college level accommodations. Assessment tools that measure personality traits, individual strengths and learning styles supplement a review of academic and educational records, and are used to identify core strengths and interests. College counseling enables the client to articulate in an interview and on the college application profile, essay and personal statements exactly who he or she is. The self-care programs focus on eating practices and nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, stress management, study skills, problem solving, independence and relating to others. These programs are available to individual students, groups of students, student-parent units, and groups of parents. College counseling services, self care programs and clinical psychology services are designed to address emotional development, learning style, personality, interests and school climate, and to optimize the goodness of fit for each student. Biography: Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Vanderbilt University (1982), B.A. with Honors in Psychology from Duke University (1978). Clinical Internship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Member of the American Psychological Association, Northern Virginia Society of Clinical Psychologists, Virginia Academy of Clinical Psychologists, Virginia Psychological Association, Washington Society for the Study of Eating Disorders, and WISER. Listed in the National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology since 1986. Dr. Ward was the director of the Adolescent Day Treatment Program at Northwest Center for Community Mental Health during the mid-1980s, and has worked with adolescents and families in Northern Virginia for 25 years. RICH WEINFELD, M.Ed. Director, Weinfeld Education Group, LLC 104 Northwood Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20901 301-681-6233 weinfeld@comcast.net www.richweinfeld.com Services: Our group of expert consultants provides educational advocacy and assessment for special needs students with all types of disabilities, as well as gifted students of all ages. We review all student records, observe the student in their current educational placement, advise parents on appropriate next steps and represent parents at meetings to advocate for appropriate changes in services or placement in more appropriate public or private programs. We serve as expert witnesses in judicial proceedings, provide training to parent groups and school staffs, and provide consultation to schools and school systems. Through our Spectrum school selection service we help parents, who are in the process of relocating, to make decisions about which neighborhood affords the best educational opportunities for their children. Through our relationship with Jewish Social Services Agency (JSSA) we offer subsidized advocacy and assessment services to clients who demonstrate financial need. Rich also teams with Michelle Davis to train and certify advocates through the Special Needs Advocacy Institute, www.specialneedsadvocacyinstitute.com Biography: Rich Weinfeld has been an advocate for appropriate educational services for students for over 30 years. After retiring from a career in Montgomery County Public Schools that included time as the director of services for gifted students with learning disabilities and extensive work with students with behavioral issues, Mr. Weinfeld has gone on to establish his own private educational consulting business. Mr. Weinfeld has taught at Johns Hopkins and has published numerous educational articles. Rich has coauthored four books:"Special Needs Advocacy Resource Book: What You Can Do Now to Advocate for Your Exceptional Child's Education"; "Smart Kids with Learning Difficulties: Overcoming Obstacles and Realizing Potential”; "Helping Boys Succeed in School"; and, “School Success for Kids with Asperger’s Syndrome”, all of which have been published by Prufrock Press. Rich serves as an expert witness testifying regarding school related issues. He is on the board of directors of the Association for Educator of Gifted Underachieving Students. He has presented at numerous national and local conferences. JENNEY G. WILDER, M.S.Ed. - BOARD MEMBER The School Counseling Group 4725 MacArthur Blvd., NW, Washington, DC 20007 202-333-3530, Fax: 202-333-3212 jwilder@schoolcounseling.com www.schoolcounseling.com Services/Biography: Jenney Wilder is an Educational Consultant who works with elementary through high school aged students and their families seeking a day or boarding school, therapeutic intervention, or a Gap Year option. Jenney is a native of the greater Washington area and attended public schools in Montgomery County before graduating from The Maret School in Washington, DC. Jenney obtained her Master’s degree in Special Education from Bank Street College of Education (NY), where she taught at two New York City Public Schools. She also tutored students in reading and writing and is trained in Orton Gillingham. Prior to working in education Jenney worked at three successful start-up companies in Silicon Valley. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Wheaton College (MA). She is presently a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA) and a member of the WISER Board. JOAN WITTAN, M.A. Bass Educational Services, LLC 4229 Cherry Valley Drive, Olney, MD 20832 240-353-2385 Fax: 1-240-220-0650 Joan@basseducationalservices.com www.basseducationalservices.com Services: We offer comprehensive college planning services for high school students with learning differences, beginning as early as freshman year. Families are guided through the college selection and admissions process. Services include preparation of a detailed and personalized college list; assistance with college visits, interviews, applications, and essays; review of psychoeducational testing and recommendations for college level accommodations; suggestions regarding high school course selection, extracurricular and community service activities, and standardized testing (SAT/ACT); assistance in fostering independence and developing selfadvocacy skills. Biography: Joan Wittan, M.A., works with students with learning disabilities and their families from kindergarten through the college selection process. She is expert at finding services and accommodations that allow students to be successful. Joan has taught and tutored students with disabilities in writing and reading and is knowledgeable about assistive technology. She serves on advisory committees for MCPS and on the Board of the GT/LD Network, is active in the adoption community, and is a member of IECA. CHRISTINE YEANNAKIS, M.A. Educational Specialist 2902 Mosby Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22305 703-739-2620 nathanyea@aol.com Services: Tutoring, Homeschooling Options and Educational Testing for students of all ages, including early childhood. Morning school alternative providing individualized, specialized instruction for small, group. After-school study group for teens. Individual tutoring in following areas: all levels of reading (readiness through college), handwriting, composition, elementary math, organization/study habits. Biography: Doctoral studies (ABD) in Educational Psychology, M.A. in Education (Reading/Learning Disabilities), BA in Elementary Education. Thirty years experience tutoring, testing and teaching. Private practice since 1997. Directed preschool. Taught early childhood, elementary, secondary special ed and community college reading/writing prep courses. JUDY B. ZEGAS Educational Support and Advocacy Services 111 East Street, NE, Vienna, VA 22180 703-344-4573, Fax: 703-319-3478 esas.jbz@verizon.net Services: Tutorial services are provided for learning disabled children and adults, particularly in reading and writing. Provide support and information to parents as they navigate the special education process. Help to understand the child’s special needs and to find agencies that can serve. Advice and information on choosing an appropriate educational setting; gathering information and accompanying parents to meetings; educating and training parents to become more effective and knowledgeable advocates for their children. Biography: M.Ed., American University (in conjunction with the Lab School of Washington), Special Education/Learning Disabilities. Resource support and tutor, Green Hedges School, Vienna, VA.(Present), Teacher/Intern, Lab School of Washington; Office Manager, The Night School, Lab School of Washington; Tutor, Tutoring Services of the Lab School of Washington (1998- 2002); Member, International Dyslexia Association, Council for Exceptional Children, Learning Disabilities Association. Self-employed, Educational Support and Advocacy Services (1997-Present). Co-director of the Summer Reading Program, an intensive daily tutoring program, from 2002 - present. AMANDA R. ZELLER, O.D. Vision and Conceptual Development Center 2400 Virginia Ave., NW, Suite C101, Washington, DC 20037 202-862-0749 , Fax: 202-862-4988 zellerwachsvcdcenter@yahoo.com www.vcdcwashington.com Services: The Vision and Conceptual Development Center, founded by Dr. Harry Wachs, and directed since 2006 by Dr. Amanda Zeller, is a complete learning center featuring developmental optometry from a Piagetian approach. The Center’s vision training department specializes in all phases of children in need, autistic spectrum, learning-related problems of children and adults, sports vision, closed head trauma, aging-related vision difficulties, strabismus (crossed eyes), amblyopia (lazy eyes), and other ocular motor dysfunctions. Diagnostic testing for all of the above is available. In addition, the Center offers logical thinking classes for children and adults as well as preschool evaluations for children (3-6 years) to determine academic readiness. MARIA ZIMMITTI, Ph.D. Maria Zimmitti, Ph.D. and Associates 1321 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20007 202-333-6251, Fax: 202-333-6255 mzimmitti@drzimmitti.com www.drzimmitti.com Services: Psychoeducational, Social-Emotional and Behavioral assessments for children and adolescents. Child, Adolescent and Adult Therapy (individual and group). Parent Lecture Series. Storybook Class for Preschoolers to develop pre-reading skills. Areas of expertise: Learning disabilities, ADHD, shyness/social anxiety in children, test taking anxiety, early childhood issues (sleeping, potty training, discipline), interpersonal psychotherapy, adult mood/anxiety disorders, adolescent treatment, international adoption issues. Biography: M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology, Los Angeles; Clinical Internship at Georgetown University Medical Center (Center for Child Development); Member of DC Psychological Association (DCPA) and American Psychological Association (APA). Please view website for bios of other associates.