NEST Psychological Services, PLLC

09/09/2026

Early, accurate dyslexia diagnosis changes lives. In my new blog post I share a compassionate, research-based approach to comprehensive dyslexia diagnostic testing , what it includes, why it matters, and how families can get the right supports for their child. Read more: https://wix.to/9dWvnuP

As a mom of seven and a school psychologist with over two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how crucial early and accurate identification of dyslexia can be. One of my own sweet babies has dyslexia. It’s not just about labeling a child; it’s about unlocking their potential and providi...

09/07/2026

This Labor Day I’m taking a quiet moment to check in - not on to-do lists, but on our kids’ emotional health for the school year. As a mom of 7 and school psychologist, I look for small signs: trouble with separation, sleep changes, worry that won’t let go, or sudden shifts in attention or mood. These pauses matter. If you want more support navigating these concerns, I’m grateful to offer trauma-informed diagnostic evaluations and online parenting courses to help children and teens build confidence and reduce anxiety. Reach out to talk through what you’re seeing and find a plan that fits your family. https://wix.to/0tLmCWL

09/03/2026

Back-to-school season can feel like a big mix of excitement and overwhelm - I see that every year as a school psychologist and a parent. 📚❤️

Research shows nearly 75% of students feel stressed about school and about 20% of parents notice their own anxiety rise. I wrote a short, practical guide to help you create small, predictable routines that ease mornings, reduce power struggles, and support your child’s emotional well-being. It’s a quick, 1-minute read with research-backed reassurance and realistic next steps. ✅

If you want a calmer start to the school year, this piece is for you. Read the full post and take one simple step today: https://wix.to/qG9DUE4

What part of the morning is hardest for you? Share below - I’ll respond with a practical tip. 🙏

09/30/2025

I’ve sat with countless kids in my office—and I’ve raised seven of my own—and one truth always rises to the surface: fear might change behavior in the moment, but it won’t teach a child how to become.

When a child obeys out of fear, they learn to shrink, to hide, to avoid mistakes at all costs. But when a child is guided with grace, they learn resilience, empathy, and responsibility. They grow into humans who don’t just “follow rules” when someone’s watching—they choose to do what’s right because it’s part of who they are.

Grace doesn’t mean letting bad behavior slide. It means teaching in a way that shapes the heart, not just controls the hands. And that’s the kind of legacy we want to leave, isn’t it? 💛

🌱 Grace is the soil where character takes root.

👉 Save this for the next hard parenting moment.
👉 Tag another parent who needs this reminder today.

09/25/2025

We’ve got it backwards sometimes. We think strength is something we build after life knocks us down. But neuropsychology (and parenting experience 🙋🏻‍♀️) shows us something different: hardship doesn’t create resilience—it uncovers the resilience that was already there.

✨ For kids, this is huge. When they face challenges—school struggles, friendships, big feelings—it’s not proof they’re weak. It’s a chance to notice the strength, creativity, and survival skills they already carry.

And for us, as parents and teachers? The same is true. That “I can’t do this” moment? That’s just the doorway to realizing you already are.

👉 Save this for the days you doubt yourself.
👉 Share it with a parent, teacher, or friend who needs the reminder today.

Because hardship isn’t the enemy—it’s the spotlight that shows the strength you didn’t even realize you had. 💡

09/25/2025

One of the hardest but most powerful shifts happens when you work this one out 🙏🏽💪🏼♥️

09/10/2025

🚨 Here’s the truth: behavior problems aren’t about “bad kids.” They’re about disconnected brains.

When a child feels safe, seen, and connected, their nervous system calms down—and their behavior follows. 🧠💡

That’s why connection is not fluff. It’s neuroscience.

Here are 10 practical ways (TBRI + neuropsychology approved ✅) to build trust, reduce power struggles, and improve behavior at home, school, and in therapy.

Save this post for when the meltdowns hit.

Tag a parent, teacher, or counselor who could use a boost this time of year.

And follow 👉 for more brain-based strategies that actually work.

💡 Connection isn’t extra—it’s the foundation.
When kids feel safe, seen, and valued, their brains are finally ready to learn.

09/10/2025

So often, we tell kids (and ourselves), “Just calm down.” But here’s the truth: the brain can’t access calm until it feels safe.

👉 Neuropsychology shows us that the amygdala (the brain’s alarm system) stays on high alert when safety feels uncertain—whether that’s emotional, relational, or physical. No amount of “relax” works until the nervous system knows: I’m safe, I’m not alone, I’m okay.

That’s why connection is medicine. Why routines matter. Why a calm adult nervous system regulates a child better than any lecture ever could.

✨ Parents, teachers, caregivers: Let’s shift the goal from “calm kids” to “safe kids.” Because safety unlocks calm, learning, and resilience.

💬 What helps YOU or your kids feel safe when anxiety shows up?

👉 Follow for more brain-based parenting + teaching insights that change behavior from the inside out.

08/26/2025

✨ Did you know? ✨

Students who feel connected at school don’t just feel happier—they literally perform better.

👏🏽Research shows school connection boosts attendance, self-esteem, GPA, and long-term motivation… while also reducing misbehavior and drop-out risk. 🤯

That means connection isn’t a “nice extra.” It’s the foundation of learning. 🧠💡

Tomorrow I’m sharing 10 powerful connection strategies (based on TBRI & brain science) you can use at home or in the classroom—practical tools that meet kids’ core needs so their brains are ready to learn.

📌 Save this post for the reminder

👩‍🏫 Follow (or your handle) so you don’t miss tomorrow’s list

❤️ Share this with a parent or teacher who needs encouragement this back-to-school season