What can I do for you?
IEP Advocacy
Navigating the special education system can be overwhelming, whether you're just beginning the IEP process or trying to improve an existing plan. IEP advocacy provides personalized, research-based support to help families understand their rights, make informed decisions, and ensure students with disabilities receive the academic, behavioral, and social support they are entitled to.
With over 20 years of experience in special education, behavior analysis, and disability advocacy, I work directly with families: preparing for meetings, interpreting documents, resolving concerns, and offering guidance every step of the way.
Education and Behavior Consultation
Whether you're supporting one student or an entire program, expert guidance can lead to significant and lasting change. I offer consulting services to districts, schools, departments, service providers, and small teams, including teachers, paraeducators, therapists, and one-on-one support staff.
From Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) for individual students to comprehensive evaluations of classroom or program-wide needs, services are tailored to your goals. Customized professional development is also available to build skills, strengthen collaboration, and create more inclusive, effective learning environments.
FAQs
Do I need an IEP advocate?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure about your child’s IEP, or concerned that their needs aren’t being fully met, an IEP advocate can help. Advocates bring expertise in special education law, services, and best practices to ensure your child’s rights are protected and their education is appropriate and individualized. Whether you're new to the process or facing challenges, an advocate can guide you, ask the right questions, and help you feel confident at the IEP table.
Will my relationship with the school be challenged if I bring an advocate?
No, it shouldn’t be. You have the legal right to bring someone with you to an IEP meeting, and a good advocate’s role is to collaborate, not to create conflict. Most teams appreciate when families are informed and supported, and an advocate can help everyone stay focused on what matters most: meeting the student’s needs.
Is Dr. Andzik the right person for us?
Dr. Natalie Andzik, PhD, BCBA-D, has over 20 years of experience in special education. She is a licensed special educator, a board-certified behavior analyst at the doctoral level, and an associate professor. As an established researcher and lifelong advocate for inclusive education, she brings proven expertise to support students with disabilities and the teams that serve them.
What is Dr. Andzik’s area of expertise?
Dr. Andzik specializes in supporting children with significant support needs, including those with complex communication, intellectual and developmental disabiliites, and behavioral challenges. Her work focuses on inclusive education, meaningful IEP development, and effective use of supports like augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and behavior strategies.