Monica Trost, Licensed Educational Psychologist #4660
IEP Advocacy and Independent Educational Evaluations in California
Specialized Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) and educational consultation focused on early childhood neurodevelopmental profiles and navigating the critical transition from preschool to TK and Kindergarten.
Does any of this sound familiar?
"This assessment felt rushed and incomplete."
"I don't understand what these test scores actually mean."
"I'm terrified my child will fall through the cracks in TK/Kindergarten."
"I feel completed overwhelmed at the meeting table."
"The school report doesn't capture who my child really is."
You don't have to navigate complex evaluation data alone.
Our Services
When a child is struggling at school, it can be difficult for parents to figure out what kind of support will make the biggest difference. The services below provide clear answers, professional insight, and practical support so you can move forward with confidence.
For families who want clarity on their child's IEP or 504 plan. Every family starts with the IEP Strategy Consultation: a detailed file review and written report, a virtual consultation call, and a customized action plan. Families who want an expert alongside them can add Meeting Strategy & Support for virtual IEP or 504 meeting attendance, prep, and debriefs.
An evaluation is only as good as the plan it creates. Monica guides families through the complexities of the IEP process with a unique perspective: the expertise of a seasoned clinician and the heart of a parent. She believes that a well-written IEP is only as strong as the data behind it. By focusing on thorough evaluations and expert interpretation of reports, she helps families understand their child’s educational plan, grounded in best practices and clinical integrity.
Comprehensive, qualitative Independent Educational Evaluations designed to give your family (and the educational team) a clear, objective understanding of your child's learning and developmental profile.
Objective and Independent: High-integrity, unbiased evaluations conducted in accordance with California Special Education guidelines and professional standards.
Comprehensive Qualitative Data: Thorough parent/caregiver interviews, multi-setting observations, and individualized testing to capture your child's complete functional profile.
Actionable Insights: Clear, accessible reports that translate complex assessment data into practical, evidence-based educational recommendations.
What Working Together Looks Like
Step 1: Book a Free 15-Minute Consultation. Pick a time on the online calendar and answer a few intake questions about your child's current situation.
Step 2: Talk With Monica. Monica calls you to review your notes, talk through your goals, and confirm whether Prepared Parent Advocate is the right fit.
Step 3: Choose Your Support. IEP families begin with the IEP Strategy Consultation and can add Meeting Strategy & Support. Families who need an evaluation are guided to the Independent Educational Evaluation process.
Step 4: Get Started. IEP consultation families reserve a spot, e-sign their agreement, and securely upload their child's records. IEE families receive a personalized estimate and schedule their evaluation. Either way, you'll receive written findings, a clear plan, and professional support for next steps.
Monica accepts just four new IEP consultation clients per month.
Experienced, Licensed, and Evidence-Based
Monica Trost, Educational Psychologist
Monica Trost is a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP #4660) in California and a credentialed School Psychologist (PPS) with more than a decade of experience working inside the public school system. She brings both professional expertise and personal insight as the parent of children with disabilities.
Her work focuses on helping families understand evaluations, navigate IEP decisions, and expert consultation so families are heard at the IEP table.
Professional Highlights
Licensed Educational Psychologist, California (LEP #4660)
Credentialed School Psychologist (PPS)
Member: California Association of School Psychologists (CASP)
Member: Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA)
What Families Say
Educational Resources for Parents
The moment you sign the Initial Assessment Plan (AP), the school district's 60-day deadline begins. This clock is meant to ensure a timely evaluation, but the truth is: the 60-day clock is a deadline, not a waiting period.
Feeling confused by special education and wondering if everyone else understands the system better than you? You are not alone, and you are in the right place. In this podcast, we share clear, calm insights into the special education process so you can feel informed, prepared, and confident every step of the way.
As parents, we want nothing more than to see our children thrive. When they face learning challenges or have specific health needs, navigating the education system can feel like learning a new language. You might hear terms like "504 Plan" and "IEP" thrown around, and it's completely normal to feel a little lost in the alphabet soup!
Clarity Starts With a Conversation
If you are unsure what your next step should be, a brief consultation can help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.
© 2026 Prepared Parent Advocate