Helping families secure appropriate educational support through expert assessment and evidence-based advocacy
IEP Advocacy and Independent Educational Evaluations in California
If your child is struggling in school, navigating the special education system can feel overwhelming. I provide professional guidance, independent evaluations, and structured advocacy to help families move forward with confidence.
You may be here because
Your child's IEP does not seem appropriate or effective
The school denied services you believe are necessary
You disagree with the district's evaluation results
You heard you can request an Independent Educational Evaluation
You want professional guidance before your next IEP meeting
You don't have to do this 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.
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 ensure your child’s educational plan is grounded in best practices and clinical integrity.
Whether families have concerns about language, social-emotional development, behavior, or learning, Monica helps them make sense of their child’s needs and advocate for the support their child deserves.
What Working Together Looks Like
Step 1:
Initial Consultation
We review your concerns, documentation, and goals.
Step 2:
Evaluation or Advocacy Plan
We determine whether advocacy 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 advocate effectively for the support their child needs.
Professional Highlights
Licensed Educational Psychologist, California (LEP #4660)
Credentialed School Psychologist (PPS)
Member: California Association of School Psychologists (CASP)
Member: National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)
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