IEP Advocacy
We believe that no parent should have to face the IEP process alone. Our advocate, Laura, can walk you through the IEP process step by step to ensure that your child is recieving the supports they need in school.
Preparation and Guidance
We help families prepare for IEP meetings by reviewing existing documentation, identifying goals, and developing a clear understanding of their child's rights. Our team assists in interpreting evaluations, recommending appropriate supports, and formulating requests to ensure the IEP aligns with the child’s unique needs. We equip parents with the confidence to advocate effectively for their child.
Communication and Collaboration
Effective communication between families, schools, and therapists is key to a successful IEP. We assist in drafting letters, requesting evaluations, and maintaining ongoing dialogue with school teams to advocate for appropriate services. By fostering a collaborative approach, we work to create a supportive and productive relationship between families and educators.
Meeting Support
Attending an IEP meeting can feel daunting, but you don’t have to go through it alone. We provide direct support during meetings, helping parents navigate discussions, ask the right questions, and ensure their concerns are addressed. Our presence ensures that the team remains focused on creating a plan that prioritizes the child’s strengths, challenges, and long-term success.
Dispute Resolution
When disagreements arise regarding services, placement, or accommodations, we support families in understanding their rights and exploring resolution options. Whether through mediation, due process guidance, or referral to additional legal resources, we help families navigate disputes while keeping the child’s best interests at the center of every decision.
Meet Our IEP Advocate
Laura Strauss
Laura holds a Master’s degree in Maternal and Child Health from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She brings a deep understanding of child health and development to her work due to years of experience supporting parents in various health and education settings. As the mother of two children with complex medical and special education needs, she is both personally and professionally dedicated to ensuring students receive the support they need to thrive and is passionate about empowering families to navigate the special education process.
Support Options
Initial Consultation
free
How Can We Help?
Schedule a 15-minute consultation to determine if and how IEP advocacy could help your child and family.
Hourly Advocacy
$100 (1 hour)
Flexible, Focused Support When You Need It
Our hourly IEP advocacy services are ideal for families looking for guidance at key points in the special education process. Work with an experienced advocate on a schedule that fits your needs.
Services may include:
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Review of IEP documents, evaluations, and progress reports
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Representation at IEP or 504 meetings (in-person or virtual)
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Help crafting goals, services, accommodations, and modifications
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Support communicating with school staff and resolving concerns
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Guidance on special education law, parental rights, and procedures
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Assistance with dispute resolution or mediation preparation
Pay only for the time you need. No minimum hours required.
Wrap-Around Support
$400 (4 hours)
Comprehensive Advocacy from Start to Finish
Our Wrap-Around Support package is a full-service option for families seeking end-to-end guidance through the IEP process. This bundled package provides both strategic preparation and hands-on representation.
This package includes:
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Educational Record Review – A detailed analysis of your child's IEP, evaluations, and progress to identify current supports and unmet needs
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Initial Planning Meeting – A one-on-one consultation with your family to discuss concerns, set goals, and develop a tailored strategy
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IEP Meeting Attendance – Advocacy and representation during your child's IEP meeting to ensure your child’s rights and needs are fully addressed
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Post-Meeting Follow-Up – Support with documentation, written communication, and next steps to ensure school accountability and implementation
This package is ideal for families looking for expert guidance and consistent support throughout the IEP process.
Our family was introduced to Laura in August of 2025 during a seminar held by Rivanna Therapy focused on advocating for your child with SPED needs. As the parent of three neurodivergent children and a social worker by profession, I felt pretty knowledgeable navigating within this space. However, I knew that after hearing Laura‘s presentation, we would benefit from scheduling a 1:1 consultation. Laura brings a level of expertise and professionalism that meets you where you are in your SPED knowledge. She has a friendly demeanor that immediately puts you at ease. These initial first impressions encouraged us to welcome her into IEP and 504 meetings for our sons. She was a crucial advocate… at times educating the educators on services available to us by law. She did this with grace and confidence. We are going into the next service year with stronger more tailored plans thanks to Laura. We recommend her wholeheartedly and are grateful to have her in our village.
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