More Than Words is for parents and people working with children who notice that their child is struggling to keep up with their peers, be it academically, socially, or emotionally. In each episode, we share resources, guidance, and a sense of assurance on the path to helping your child.
Episodes
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
In today’s episode, we’re talking to Dr. Leslie Hawkins about ADHD & Dyslexia. Dr. Hawkins is a licensed clinical psychologist in Chantilly, Virginia. She specializes in evaluating and assessing educational/learning difficulties (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), ADHD and executive functioning, and cognitive impairment, as well as psychological and neuropsychological difficulties. Today we will answer these questions:
- What does comorbidity mean?
- Why are ADHD and dyslexia often comorbid?
- What are the signs of this comorbidity?
- Do the symptoms of one overshadow the other, or are they hard to tell apart? Do they share symptoms?
- How does this comorbidity affect a child's life differently than having just one of these conditions?
- How are these conditions treated - separately, together, or is there a combination of approaches?
- How often is this comorbidity diagnosed? Do children usually receive both diagnoses simultaneously, or does one tend to be diagnosed later?
More about Dr. Hawkins
Dr. Hawkins has worked across multiple settings, to include military and veteran hospitals, neuropsychological and rehabilitation clinics, public schools, community health centers, and private practice. Dr. Hawkins’ priority is to provide excellent clinical care in a warm and supportive environment. She works collaboratively with clients to promote personal growth and lasting changes.
Dr. Hawkins’ training has been diverse and has led to specialization in both psychological assessment and psychotherapy. She has expertise helping children, adolescents, and their families obtain a thorough understanding of difficulties related to learning, executive functioning, and attention that are impacting their functioning at school and at home. Dr. Hawkins also has expertise conducting diagnostic evaluations with clients of all ages who may be experiencing changes in mood or behavior. She focuses on tailoring assessments so that clients can gain a thorough understanding of their strengths and weaknesses and receive helpful recommendations moving forward.
Therapeutically, Dr. Hawkins takes an integrative approach to treatment. She is trained in several evidence-based therapies (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Mindfulness) that she implements based on each client’s individual needs. She believes psychotherapy is an empowering experience that focuses on building one’s strengths while also providing relief from current stressors. Dr. Hawkins works with each client to further develop their sense of efficacy over change and enhance their overall well-being.
When she is not working, Dr. Hawkins enjoys spending time with her husband and sons and catching up with friends. Her interests include running, reading, gardening, and spending as much time outdoors as possible.
Links and Resources:
- You can find Dr. Hawkins where she practices at Mindwell Psychology: https://mindwell.us/
- Dr. Hawkins’s email address: drhawkins@mindwell.us
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Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
In today’s episode, we’re talking to Dr. Samantha Sweeney about Parenting an Anxious Child. Dr. Sweeney is a licensed psychologist in the DC Metro Area. She works with students of all ages at her practice Family Psychological Services of Capitol Hill. Today we will answer these questions:
- What are the signs and symptoms of anxiety in children? Does it differ based on age?
- Can anxiety be triggered by something, and if so how do I identify that trigger?
- Are there things I can do to help my child in an anxious moment?
- What strategies are there to help me, as the parent, stay calm when my child is anxious?
- What is a normal level of anxiety for a child to have?
- How will I know when I need to look into gathering more support for my anxious child?
- What are the avenues to get the support that they need?
- How can I build a safe space at home for my child to work through their anxiety?
- What strategies can I teach my child to help them work through their anxiety on their own?
Links and Resources:
- Dr. Sweeney’s practice: https://www.fpsch.com/
- Dr. Sweeney’s book Working with Worry: https://www.bullpub.com/workingwithworry.html
- Dr. Sweeney’s other services through Culturally Competent Kids https://www.culturallycompetentkids.com/
- Find Dr. Sweeney on Social Media:
More about Dr. Sweeney
Dr. Samantha Sweeney is a licensed psychologist in the District of Columbia. She has a Ph.D. in School Psychology from the University of Maryland-College Park, where she was also a fellowship recipient. Dr. Sweeney earned her undergraduate psychology degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
Dr. Sweeney is passionate about education and has worked with students at all grade levels. She has been a preschool teacher at St. Columba's Nursery School in Northwest, DC, a consultant and researcher in DC Public Schools, and a School Psychologist in Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia. Dr. Sweeney also taught several undergraduate classes during her time at the University of Maryland-College Park. Additionally, while in college she headed up an organization that provided college guidance and enrichment to students in the Philadelphia public schools.
Dr. Sweeney has extensive experience working with children and adolescents with significant emotional and behavioral challenges. During her summers in college, Dr. Sweeney worked for the Wediko Children's Services Summer Treatment Program with children and adolescents with significant emotional and behavioral issues.
Dr. Sweeney is very involved professionally within the wider DC area. She was an adjunct professor in Howard University's School Psychology Program, helping to develop new practitioners and leaders within the discipline. Additionally, Dr. Sweeney was the Preschool Screening Team Leader for the Kathy Wilson Foundation in Alexandria, Virginia. The Kathy Wilson Foundation provides resources and support for children and families in Alexandria.
Dr. Sweeney is committed to serving the wider community through media and speaking engagements. She has provided speaking engagements for universities, places of worship, parent groups, and conferences. Please visit the 'Media & Speaking Engagements' page under the Services tab for more information. If you are interested in Dr. Sweeney speaking at your event or for your organization, please contact her directly.
Throughout her entire adult life, Dr. Sweeney has lived in Capitol Hill, DC. She understands and loves the neighborhood. She is invested and wants to serve the community that she loves!
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- Website: http://www.readingllcenter.com
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/readingllcenter
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/readingllcenter
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWlbl8Ea8DJFADaNU9ZK1Vw
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-reading-and-language-learning-center
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
In today’s episode, we’re talking to Daniela Feldhausen about what happens after a dyslexia diagnosis. Daniela is a reading specialist who owns Kids Up Reading Coaches, a practice of reading and dyslexia tutors. The practice is entirely virtual, meaning students from anywhere can receive their services. Today we will answer these questions:
- What is dyslexia?
- What is the best treatment?
- What should I look for when I am searching for treatment options?
- How long will treatment take?
- Do I tell their school?
- Can I do anything at home to help them?
Links and Resources:
- Daniela’s practice: https://www.kidsupreadingcoaches.com/
Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so you never miss an episode!
Wednesday Dec 04, 2024
Wednesday Dec 04, 2024
In today’s episode, we’re talking to Toni Walters about Shared Reading. Toni is a Speech-Language Pathologist in the DMV area. She is an assistant professor at the University of DC in their Speech-Language Pathology program. Today we will answer these questions:
- What is shared reading?
- Is this done in the home or in the classroom?
- Is this done individually or in a group setting?
- How does a teacher implement shared reading?
- Is this done daily?
- Does it focus on reading comprehension?
- What age group can participate in shared reading?
- Why is it important?
Links and Resources:
- You can reach Toni on her LinkedIn page:
- The CROWD and PEER acronyms referenced
- The Video of Father and Son talking/babbling together
Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so you never miss an episode!
Wednesday Sep 04, 2024
Wednesday Sep 04, 2024
In today’s episode, we’re talking to John Thomas about Cultivating a positive mindset for going back to school. Mr. Thomas is a former classroom teacher in the northern Virginia area. He specializes in creating positive and fun learning environments to build students up and help them achieve their best potential. John is now a tutor in the area helping students work through their mindset toward school and themselves while mastering tough assignments. Today we will answer these questions:
- How does a student work on having a positive mindset around school?
- How can parents help their children cultivate this positive mindset?
- How can students & parents cultivate positive relationships with their teachers?
- What differences do you see when families adopt a positive mindset around school?
- How can teachers contribute to creating a positive learning environment that supports students' development of a positive mindset towards school?
- What role can school administrators play in fostering a culture of positivity and support that benefits both students and parents?
Links and Resources:
- John’s email: thomastutoringllc@gmail.com
Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so you never miss an episode!
- Website: http://www.readingllcenter.com
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/readingllcenter
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/readingllcenter
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWlbl8Ea8DJFADaNU9ZK1Vw
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-reading-and-language-learning-center
Wednesday Jun 26, 2024
Wednesday Jun 26, 2024
In today’s episode, we’re talking to Irene Ilachinski about ADHD in Mothers. Irene is a licensed clinical social worker in the Northern Virginia area. She specializes in treating adults with PTSD and High-functioning women with ADHD. Her practice is called Open Bridges Counseling and it’s located in Fairfax, VA. Today we will answer these questions:
- What signs do mothers see that lead them to believe they have ADHD?
- How do mothers get diagnosed with ADHD?
- What age do adult women often get diagnosed with ADHD?
- How can this new diagnosis affect the family?
- What strategies can mothers use to manage their ADHD?
- What is it like for someone to find out later in life that they have been masking for ADHD all along? Is it hard for them to get out of habits that they picked up to help them compensate?
- What’s your biggest piece of advice for a mother who is just finding out she has ADHD?
- You work also with Acute and Chronic PTSD in adults. How does ADHD affect Trauma?
- Conversely, how does Trauma impact ADHD?
Links and Resources:
- Irene’s website: www.openbridgescounseling.com
- Driven to Distraction, by Ned Hallowell and John Ratey (book): https://a.co/d/0aZML8YF
- CHADD - https://chadd.org/understanding-adhd/ - organization for children and adults with ADHD.
- ADDitude - https://www.additudemag.com/ - online journal with articles, resources by and for people with ADHD
- ADHD-friendly Ways to Organize Your Life, by Judith Kohlberg and Kathleen Nadeau (book): https://a.co/d/0056etrz
- The Smart but Scattered Guide to Success by Peg Dawson and Richard Guare (book): https://a.co/d/045sIKML
Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so you never miss an episode!
Wednesday Jun 12, 2024
Wednesday Jun 12, 2024
In today’s episode, we’re talking to Dr. James Siddall about How Schools Identify And Support Students With Dyslexia. Dr. Siddall is a licensed school psychologist in Northern Virginia. He owns his own practice where he offers psychoeducational services to students of all ages. Today we will answer these questions:
- Can you tell us what happens before a student begins the identification process? I know there are acronyms like RTI & MTSS, what exactly does that mean?
- Identification
- How does the identification process work and who is the catalyst, the parents or the school?
- Does the school do testing and if so what does that look like? Will they provide a diagnosis if warranted?
- Do you recommend that parents get outside testing?
- How does a student qualify for support services?
- Support
- What kind of support is available for my child?
- What’s the difference between special education, Section 504 & IEPs? How do I know which one is best for my child?
Links and Resources:
- Dr. Siddall’s website: http://jdspsychoed.com/
- Dr. Siddall’s email: jsiddall@jdspsychoed.com
More about Dr. Siddall:
Dr. James Siddall is a Licensed School Psychologist and the owner of JDS Psychoeducational Services. Dr. Siddall obtained his doctorate in School Psychology from the University of South Carolina and completed his internship at Loudoun County Public Schools in Northern Virginia. Dr. Siddall then worked as a practicing School Psychologist in Arlington Public Schools for seven years, working at both the high school and elementary school levels. He is currently a practicing Psychologist at The Child and Family Practice of Washington, DC in addition to his work at JDS Educational Services.
Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so you never miss an episode!
Wednesday May 22, 2024
Wednesday May 22, 2024
In today’s episode, we’re talking to Joan Green about The Benefits Of Tech To Support Attention, Organization, Literacy, and Communication. Joan is an SLP and Inclusive Assistive Technology Specialist in the DMV area. Through her practice, Innovative Speech Therapy, she specializes in assistive tech for individuals of all ages. Today we will answer these questions:
- What is assistive technology?
- What kinds of technology is out there? Are there low-cost vs. high-cost options?
- Which piece of technology is best suited to the different areas we’re focusing on today?
- Attention
- Organization
- Literacy
- Communication
- Should parents and teachers use their child/student’s technology when working with them, and if so how should they practice with this technology?
- How has technology improved a child’s life? Academically, socially, home life etc.
More about Joan
Joan is a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist, technology consultant, eldertech advocate, mother of four wonderful young adults, and the founder of Innovative Speech Therapy. Her passion is to do all that she can to help families, educators, caregivers, and therapists address a wide variety of communication, cognitive, literacy, and learning challenges. Over her years as a speech therapist, she’s worked to fine-tune her uniquely effective approach to therapy and professional development. Joan believes in empowering individuals, families, and professionals through affordable, cutting-edge technologies that many of us already have in our homes, schools, and workplaces.
Over the past 35+ years, Joan developed systems, techniques, and strategies to help others speed toward their communication, cognitive, and learning goals. To do this, Joan combines the use of the latest assistive technology features, online tools, engaging speech and language therapy apps, evidence-based speech therapy techniques, inclusive family-centered communication training, and multiple means of support. In addition to providing customized individual sessions, Joan enjoys speaking at conferences and creating webinars, courses, and online tutorials about using engaging and motivating resources to enhance communication and learning.
Joan believes that education should never end, and so she is constantly on the lookout for new, innovative ways to help her clients. Joan received the “Most Outstanding Contribution to the Field” award from the Maryland Speech-Language-Hearing Association, as well as the “Technovator Award” from MATN (Maryland Assistive Technology Network) sponsored by The Johns Hopkins University School of Education for Technology in Education and the Maryland State Department of Education.
Joan knows how important it is that you trust and feel comfortable with the person helping you move forward toward your goals so Joan offers a free initial phone consultation. Joan is based in the Washington, DC area but offers the majority of tech advising and coaching sessions online, everywhere. Along with her one-on-one sessions, Joan also provides video-based courses and often shares her techniques through blog posts, online courses, books, and speaking engagements.
Links and Resources:
- Joan’s practice: www.innovativespeech.com
- Task breakdown: https://goblin.tools/
- Read & Write for Google Chrome: https://www.texthelp.com/products/read-and-write-education/for-google-chrome/
Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so you never miss an episode!
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Wednesday May 08, 2024
In today’s episode, we’re talking to Judith Bass about Fostering Independence & Self-Advocacy. Judy is a certified educational planner based in Maryland. She specializes in the field of college and postsecondary placement for students who learn differently. Today we will answer these questions:
- What is self-advocacy?
- How do you teach self-advocacy and independence?
- What are the best ways to encourage independence and self-advocacy at home?
- Why is it so important to foster strong independence and self-advocacy in a child?
- What are some of the challenges neurodivergent students face when attempting to self-advocate in school?
- How can being an independent learner and good self-advocate impact a student's postsecondary education?
More about Judy
Judith S. Bass, CEP is an internationally recognized expert in the field of college and postsecondary placement for students who learn differently. For the past 20 years, Ms. Bass has provided comprehensive planning services for students with ADHD, ASD, and other learning differences. Ms. Bass is a contributing author in the recently published book, Navigating the Transition from High School to College for Students with Disabilities. Her articles have appeared in numerous magazines, including Washington Parent and ATTENTION Magazine.
Ms. Bass has developed CollegeWebLD, www.collegewebld.com , a one-stop source of information on college disability services at over 400 colleges in the US. She is past Chair of the Commission on Credentialing for AICEP (www.aicep.org) and a past Board Member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). She also serves as a consultant to several independent high schools in the Washington, DC area. Ms. Bass received her undergraduate degree in Education and Spanish from Stony Brook University, earned a Graduate Level Certificate in College Counseling from UCLA and holds the designation of Certified Educational Planner.
Links and Resources:
- Judy’s practice: https://www.basseducationalservices.com/
Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so you never miss an episode!
Wednesday Apr 17, 2024
Wednesday Apr 17, 2024
In today’s episode, we’re talking to Joanna Salzman about IEPs, 504 Plans, the laws that make them possible, and More. Joanna is an educational consultant in Maryland. Joanna is a strong advocate for families in the initial identification of students who need an IEP and 504 plan. She is well-versed in the law, IDEA, and ensures that schools follow the proper procedures and rules.
Today we will answer these questions:
- What is the law that provides rights to special education services?
- IDEA - Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
- FAPE - Free and Appropriate Education
- LRE ( Least Restrictive Environment)
- IDEA - Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
- What is an IEP?
- What are the major parts of the IEP?
- Who decides what goes into a child’s IEP?
- How should a parent prepare for the IEP meeting?
- What happens at an IEP meeting?
- How often are IEP meetings held?
- What is a 504 plan?
- What is the difference between a 504 plan and an IEP?
- What should a parent know to advocate for their child?
- What can a parent do if they feel the IEP or 504 Plan isn’t being implemented as outlined?
- How does an educational consultant like Joanna, help advocate for someone’s child?
More about Joanna:
Joanna Salzman is the CEO of JMS Education Consulting. Joanna has a wealth of knowledge and expertise with 30 years of experience in the field of special education.
Joanna received her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from James Madison University, her Master’s Degree in Special Education from American University, Education Specialist Degree from George Washington University, and an Administration Certificate from Towson University. She completed her special education teacher training at the Lab School of Washington in Washington, D.C.
Joanna’s experience includes observing students from 3 to 21 years of age with differing abilities and disabilities. She has extensive knowledge and expertise in problem-solving and identifying supports that students need to be successful. These skills were perfected due to her time teaching in Prince George’s County Public Schools, as well as in the Montgomery County Public School System as a special education teacher, special education instructional specialist, and special education supervisor.
Most recently, Joanna was a guest speaker at George Mason University for an Advanced Practicum class in Clinical Psychology with Third-year doctoral students. The objectives of the course are related primarily to the application of psychological skills, supervision and interpersonal skills, professionalism and ethical standards, and demonstration of understanding how to function on a team with other professionals.
Links and Resources:
- Joanna’s practice: https://www.jmseduconsulting.com/about
- Joanna’s phone number: (240) 994-0330
Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so you never miss an episode!