Monica Trost, Licensed Educational Psychologist #4660
Navigating Special Education Through Comprehensive Evaluations and Strategic Guidance in California
Specialized Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) 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.
Have you already completed an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) or private assessment, but feel overwhelmed by the 40-page report?
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 learn 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:
Initial Consultation
We review your concerns, documentation, and goals.
Step 2:
Evaluation or Consultation Plan
We determine whether consultation support or an independent evaluation is appropriate.
Step 3:
Clear Recommendations and Support
You receive written findings, structured guidance, and professional support for next steps.
You will always understand what is happening and why.
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.
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