Shannon Ballinger, Educational Psychologist
My favorite people may read slowly or not at all, wiggle often, daydream, procrastinate, forget, lose stuff, and struggle with understanding social cues. But very often they are also compassionate, sensitive, intuitive, deep thinkers, and very creative. For the last 15 years I have worked at an independent school. Most of that time as an Educational Specialist, I have served students with ADHD, Dyslexia, and other processing challenges, as well as working with gifted students. I also read student’s psychological and neuropsychological testing in order to create support plans including interventions and accommodations.
Through the years I have taught 4th, 5th and 6th graders in the independent school and homeschoolers in all grades English, Composition, public speaking, and Literature.
As an ADHD coach, I work with children, teens and adults, and their families to address social skills, behavior, and executive function skills, such as organization, time management and initiation. Learning these crucial life skills builds growth mindset, confidence and independence.
My Story
Before I joined the workforce, I homeschooled my seven children - Micah, Danielle, Hannah, Mary, Leah, Emily, and Isaac through high school. During this time I assisted homeschooling families, find the best curriculum and resources for their learning needs, as well as administering end of the year testing. Just recently I helped to start a parochial school in Bealeton, VA and continue to work with them on a regular basis.
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In my free time, I love playing with my grandchildren, traveling, and spending time with my family. If you have any questions email me and I will respond as soon as possible. I am so excited to work with you and your family.
2023 - Overcoming Dyslexia Course with Dr. Sally Shaywitz
2018 - present - ADHD Coach - The ADD Coach Academy
2014 - present - Training in Science of Reading, Dyslexia Testing and Intervention
2013 - Orton-Gillingham Literacy Training, Institute for Multi-sensory Education
2010 - MS in Educational Psychology, George Mason University, VA
2007- present - Educational Specialist, Wakefield School, The Plains, VA
2001 - 2006 - Instructor at Learning Tree Farms, Delaplane, VA
1990 - 2010 - Taught public speaking and writing to homeschooled students
1988 - 2015 - Worked as a consultant with homeschool families
1984 - BA in Communications, Ouachita Baptist University, AR
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