IEP Coaching & Advocacy
Transforming challenges into wings: guiding parents through the IEP journey.
About Debbie Gelinas, Director IEP Coaching & Advocacy:
"Debbie’s background is clinical, Human Services Counseling and Women’s Studies, with graduate work in Public Administration, and Social Work. Clinical experience includes over 15 years at the University of Florida, College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics as a Clinical Director. During that time, she formed a 501©3 organization to provide child advocacy and counseling services. Beginning in 2007 through 2012, she served as the Education Community Leader/Consultant for the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida. Since 2010, she has been a contracted provider of Special Education services for the Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida. Debbie provides in service training and seminars for local professional and clinical organizations in the area of advocacy and mission/vision planning. She has presented on topics related to Special Needs nationally and locally. Debbie is a member of the National Association of Professional Special Needs Education Advocates, National Association of School Psychologists, and the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates. She has been the recipient of numerous awards in recognition of her work. She is a mother of 4 children and her youngest child has multiple special needs. Debbie enjoys strength training and is a disciplined runner!"
Current client fee for service is $125 per hour. Payment plans can be arranged. Initial (up to 15 minute) phone consult is free, afterwards, Debbie will know how best she can help you obtain what is needed for your child!
Recent feedback from a client: "We just wanted to thank you once again for helping us maneuver our way through the politics of Seminole County Public Schools. Our son began school last Friday. For the first time, he is excited and happy to return. You made that happen!"
What one parent had to say: "Debbie gets results! It's that simple! After trying to fight the battle with the public school system on our own, we met with Debbie and got her involved. She provided tremendous insight, demonstrated a thorough knowledge of both the system and the laws regarding accessibility to a quality education. Our son is excelling now in the right place all because of Debbie."
Other comments include: "Thank you so much for all of the hard work you did for our son last year! You made the process less stressful and easy to understand. Going up against the school was challenging and intimidating. With you by our side it gave us more confidence and knowledge than we could ever have on our own."
and Debbie Gelinas is a top-notch professional who truly cares for her clients. She is very knowledgeable about the law, and provides excellent advice and guidance. Debbie goes above and beyond to ensure all your concerns and the welfare of your child is met!"
Visit Debbie Gelinas on LinkedIn to read more client feedback!
Read this article by Debbie:
https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/important-iep-decrees-at-school/
Contact Debbie or a member of her staff at:
iepcoachingandadvocacy@yahoo.com
407.766.5942