My Services

I know that making that first phone call to get help is sometimes a tough, but critical step. Know that in many situations the downward spiraling will not stop until the child is removed from the home. Nothing but a major intervention will allow the child to begin to heal.

The finest parents think they just need to get tougher on the child, or take away more privileges, or go to therapy once a week, but usually this will not stop the plummeting. I understand how difficult it is to take this first step. It is not an easy step, but together we can start the healing process.

The first consultation is arranged with the parents and client to discuss special needs, problems, expectations, and concerns. The initial meeting usually takes around two hours. At this time, we will also discuss the different types of appropriate schools and programs. Recommendation for further evaluation will be discussed, if necessary. The fee for this first meeting is $500.

After we meet and I have given my thoughts about his or her needs, we can discuss the possibility of continuing with my services. At this point it is okay to suspend my services. However, if there is still a need to continue with my services, we will begin work immediately and the initial $500 payment will count toward the total fee.

There will be three forms to complete (available for download from the website). (Student Profile, Parent Authorization, Contract).

I will need a copy of all testing (achievement, IQ, SAT, psychological, learning differences) along with as many report cards/transcripts and other records as are available.

Also, reports from teachers, therapists if any, and/or direct conversations with them are welcome.

If we agree that testing, or further testing, would be useful or necessary, I have certified examiners available.

After reviewing all of the information from our family meeting, I will contact the schools or programs that I think are appropriate.

If they have space, I will arrange for contact. First contact will contain information about staff, websites, and a general description of their mission. The school or program may also send brochures and applications.

I will help with questions about applications, setting up interviews, and any other assistance. Remember, hiring an advocate means I will be monitoring the child’s progress during the entire process, from program search, admissions, to selection, and follow-up. I am offering a personal service of my time, knowledge, and training.

PLEASE know that I am happy to talk about the situation at no charge, and, without pressure, to try to clarify what needs, choices and services are available. I can help determine whether an education consultant is truly needed.

Many of my families have used these lenders, who specialize in educational and program loans and can stretch payments over ten or more years: KeyCorp www.key.com Bank of America www.BankofAmerica.com and PrepGATE www.prepgate.com

However, here I must add a caution for the independent souls who research the web and make choices for their children based on what they find there, or on the experience of a friend of a friend.

As a parent, this is an extensive investment of time, money, emotion and for the child’s life. Financially, it is a commitment anywhere from $30,000 to $75,000 and more to this process. My fee is a VERY small percentage of that sum, and for that fee my knowledge and my experience with uncounted schools, programs, and children is available.

I am committed to knowing which programs are legitimate (read the boot camp horror stories), which are not, and which are appropriate for what kind of student. I base my recommendations on what I know, backed up by the additional expertise of a national network of colleagues I keep in touch with on a regular basis.

I can also recommend safe, loving, and relentless therapeutic programs that can help the person realize that s/he needs assistance and begin the road to recovery.

After considering my recommendations and completing research, we will confer about the final choice. Once placement is completed, I follow the progress of the child by receiving reports from the school/program, and through phone calls with parents. From sign on time until the child completes the placement, I am available ANYTIME, usually the same day contact.

Finally, be aware that I work only for the family. To make sure of the widest choices possible, I do not accept fees from schools, programs or colleges. My only payment comes from the parents. Also, I respect the integrity of the consulting relationship and all relevant information is held in the strictest confidence. And in an emergency situation, I can arrange placement within 24-48 hours at a program when a student is in a crisis situation.