Are you a parent or caregiver in need of resources for your child? Are you interested in learning more about schools, therapists, providers, agencies, and nonprofit organizations that support children with special education needs?
As you consider what support your child may need, Special Education Legal Fund has gathered a list of community resources to help support you and your family on your journey. Scroll for a list of schools, professionals, and providers in the Connecticut and New York area and explore what each organization offers to students, parents, families, and caregivers.
Please note that the inclusion of any organization or provider on this list is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or imply endorsement, recommendation, or approval by Special Education Legal Fund. Families are encouraged to independently evaluate each resource to determine what is appropriate for their individual needs.
Find out more about each organization by clicking the logos below.
Wealthspire is an independent advisory platform offering capabilities across individual wealth management, institutional advisory, and business management. As one of the most comprehensive and multidisciplinary platforms in North America, Wealthspire currently oversees more than $593 billion in assets under management or advisement.* Though our size means we serve a diverse client base, we work most extensively with high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals and families. We lead with tailored planning, invest with a disciplined, long-term approach, and aim to simplify lives by coordinating seamlessly with outside advisors and building collaborative client teams.
* Reflects combined data as of 12/31/2025 for Wealthspire Advisors LLC, Fiducient Advisors LLC, Wealthspire Retirement, LLC dba Wealthspire Retirement Advisory, Newport Private Wealth Inc., and affiliates.
Founded in 1975, Eagle Hill School transforms the lives of students in grades 1 through 8 with language-based learning differences. Located on 17 acres in the heart of Greenwich, Connecticut, the school offers an individualized, whole-child approach supported by a dedicated and passionate faculty. At Eagle Hill, students grow into confident, joyful learners. For added flexibility, a five-day junior boarding program extends this unique learning experience beyond the classroom.
Winston Preparatory School offers individualized programming for students ages 8-21+ with learning differences, such as NVLD, ADHD, and dyslexia. Unlike any other school, Winston Prep groups students based on their learning difficulty, skill level, and academic and social-emotional needs, leading to extraordinary transformations in each student’s life and learning. Our campus locations include CT, NYC, NJ, Long Island, and CA. We also offer flexible online programming to students across the country.
Founded in 1817 as the first permanent school for the deaf in the United States, the American School for the Deaf is no stranger to pioneering new and innovative solutions to help Deaf and Hard of Hearing students succeed both in school and in life. As the only school in Connecticut exclusively devoted to the education of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children, ASD maintains a lengthy tradition of national and international leadership in Deaf Education. ASD develops the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, physically, and socially—in a comprehensive learning community that welcomes all Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and hearing children with unique communication needs. At ASD, students and their families are surrounded by inspiring peers, guided by dedicated and committed staff, and supported by robust technology. We foster a language-rich communication environment that maximizes children’s potential, empowering them to become educated and self-directed lifelong learners.
Founded in 1972, Chapel Haven Schleifer Center (CHSC) has been changing lives for adults with disabilities for more than half a century. This award-winning non-profit, based in the Westville section of New Haven, CT, teaches adults with developmental and social disabilities to live independent and productive lives through a nationally accredited transitional living program and approved private special education school. Chapel Haven serves more than 250 adults (18 years of age and older) in the residence and the community with three distinct programs: Residential Education at CH (REACH), Autism Supports and Transition (ASAT) and Connecting Adults to Chapel Haven (CATCH). Among the profiles of adults served at CHSC are autism, intellectual disabilities, Down Syndrome, and social communication disorders. Through an intensive, state-approved education curriculum, adults are guided through all aspects of independent living and prepared for a future in which they can live robust and independent adult lives. The CATCH program is our newest offering and serves midlife or older adults who are ready to explore independent living. All transition programs include options to transition into a long-term supported living community. CHSC also offers a la carte recreation, adult day programming, and adult education options.
Forman School is an independent, coeducational, college preparatory school for boarding and day students with identified learning differences. Forman develops the whole student, based on each individual’s learning profile, so that all graduates become educated, confident self-advocates throughout life.
At Fusion Academy, we reimagined everything about school. In Fusion’s 1 – to – 1 classrooms, your student receives their teacher’s total attention. We customize the curriculum and content to match their unique pace and preferences. Your student will learn better, dive deeper, and never get left behind. But, the biggest difference you’ll notice… is the way your child has changed.
The Pinnacle School serves students in grades 2-12 who have complex learning profiles including dyslexia, language-based learning disabilities, ADHD, and ASD. With small class sizes, a 4:1 student to teacher ratio, and a therapeutic approach, students receive in the moment support and tailored academics. The Pinnacle School provides a safe and nurturing educational environment and follows Ross Greene’s methodology of Collaborative Proactive Solutions. Through individualized academic programming, collaborative problem-solving, and relationship building, students develop the skills necessary to become caring and compassionate friends, active members of their community, and resilient, life-long learners.
The Spire School, located in Stamford, Connecticut, is a private therapeutic day school for students in grades 6–12. As a college-preparatory program, Spire offers robust academic courses designed to challenge and engage students, while also addressing their individual learning needs in small group classes. Students receive 1:1 and group support from dedicated life coaches who help guide students’ social and emotional growth, building skills in self-awareness, emotional regulation, resilience, and executive functioning. Our integrated approach supports those managing anxiety, depression, school avoidance, executive function challenges, and more. Spire is a Connecticut State-Approved Special Education Program (APSEP) and is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).
For 50 years, Villa Maria School has believed in the extraordinary capabilities of every student. Our small, thoughtfully designed classes ensure that each student receives the individualized attention they need to succeed. With a team of dedicated and skilled teachers, we create an inclusive and supportive environment where our students, who have diagnoses that include language-based learning disorders, auditory processing disorders, nonverbal learning disabilities, ASD, and ADHD, realize their potential by developing meaningful relationships through skill development.
The Windward School is a co-ed, independent day school located in New York City and White Plains, New York, for children in grades 1-9 with language-based learning disabilities like dyslexia. Windward’s mission is to remediate students’ dyslexia or other language-based learning disabilities and to return students to mainstream schools. Nationally recognized for its development of instructional programs designed specifically to help students achieve language proficiency, Windward’s academic curriculum is research-based and multisensory in nature and is designed to give students the skills they need to succeed in school and return with confidence to mainstream educational settings.
Sasco River Center is a premier child and family development practice serving Fairfield and Westchester Counties with our proven, multidisciplinary approach. Our highly skilled team offers a comprehensive range of services, including neuropsychological and
psychoeducational evaluations, psychotherapy, medication management, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and executive functions coaching. By bringing together diverse specialists under one roof, we provide integrated and collaborative care tailored to each client’s unique needs. Our mission is to empower children, young adults, and families with the expert support they need to overcome challenges and thrive.
Achievement Unlimited 2 (AU2) provides personalized tutoring, educational advocacy, executive functioning support, and mentorship for students and families throughout Greater Hartford. Founded by a school psychologist and certified teacher, AU2 helps children build academic skills, confidence, and independence while empowering families to navigate educational systems and access appropriate supports. Through individualized services and collaborative partnerships, AU2 is committed to helping every child thrive in school and beyond.
Being a parent of a special needs child is challenging enough, without throwing in the confusing process and jargon of PPT meetings. Virginia understands this not only from the parent perspective, having navigated this for her own daughter, but also as a special education advocate who strives to educate parents and lead them through PPT meetings to successfully advocate for their child’s needs.
Marisa Halm of Brown & Patterson LLP is an attorney with 20 years of experience representing children with disabilities and their families against school districts. Whether a student is not receiving the instruction they need or is facing excessive discipline, Marisa provides focused, zealous legal representation tailored to the student’s individual circumstances. Committed to helping students in need access legal support, Marisa offers cost-effective options for families seeking educational advocacy and guidance. Contact Marisa to schedule a free consultation about your child’s case.
Knowledge is power, and Jill Chuckas, MSW, Special Education Advocate, and her team will work with families to advocate and better understand what can be done to support their child’s unique learning needs. From first diagnosis, to eligibility for special education services, through development of an individualized education program (IEP) or 504 accommodation plan, to ongoing follow-through to ensure the IEP is being implemented, your CTEA team member will be there every step of the way, to help determine next steps from wherever the family is in the special education process.
Spanish speaking advocate available.
Attorney David Heuvelman provides legal advocacy for children in need in the areas of special education, school suspension and expulsion, child welfare law, and family mediation. Having navigated the system as a parent advocating for his own child, Attorney Heuvelman was led to the practice of special education law and enjoys collaborating with families to identify solutions that serve the specific needs of students and families.
Dr. Danielle Cohen is a non-attorney special education advocate, former special education teacher, administrator, and IEP compliance officer with more than 15 years of experience helping students with disabilities and unique learning needs access appropriate educational services and supports. Dr. Cohen provides comprehensive special education advocacy, IEP and 504 plan reviews, educational consulting, parent coaching, and representation during school meetings for families in Connecticut and across the United States. Drawing on her extensive background in teaching, special education administration, compliance, research, and advocacy, Dr. Cohen works closely with families to navigate complex educational systems, understand their legal rights, and develop effective strategies for securing services, accommodations, and placements that support student success. Her practice is dedicated to ensuring that every child receives a free and appropriate public education while empowering parents with the knowledge and confidence to advocate effectively for their children. By combining deep expertise in special education procedures, policy, and practice with a personalized, collaborative approach, Dr. Cohen helps families achieve meaningful educational outcomes and create pathways for long-term student growth and achievement. Dr. Cohen is the founder and developer of Power Parent IEP, an online tool for parents to learn more about Special Education a how to navigate the complexities of the process.
For the past 22 years, Diane Willcutts has served as an advocate for children with disabilities throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts. Using clear communication, courtesy, and strategic thinking, Diane helps families to effectively navigate the special education and 504 processes. She is a past president of the Learning Disabilities Association of Connecticut, former board member of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), and past instructor for COPAA’s renowned Special Education Advocate Training (SEAT 2.0 and 3.0). Diane has special expertise in literacy and is passionate about ensuring all students learn to read well, regardless of disability type.
Every Mind Speech is a boutique speech therapy practice in Ridgefield, CT, specializing in supporting neurodivergent children and those fortunate enough to know them. As a truly affirming practice, we work hard to challenge the “therapy mill” culture and provide a different kind of support for neurodivergent minds. Our practice is trauma- and sensory-informed, tailored to children who are dyspraxic, minimally, unreliably, or non-speaking, communicate using echolalia, or experience selective mutism or social cognitive processing differences. We believe that authentic, trusting therapeutic relationships are deeply undervalued. Check out our sensory clinic in Ridgefield, where all modalities of communication and play are welcomed and supported, or ask about services at your child’s school, or via telehealth (NY/CT).
Feinstein Education Law Group focuses on ensuring students with disabilities receive excellent educational services. Both Andrew Feinstein and Jillian Griswold have many years of experience and excellent reputations for advocacy in the field of special education.
Franklin Academy is a premier all-gender boarding and day school for neurodivergent students in grades 8–12, offering a distinctive strength-based approach to academics, social-emotional learning, and life skills in a warm, inclusive community. With signature programs in World Travel-Study, Animal Science, and Performing Arts, students gain real-world experience while building executive functioning, independence, and self-advocacy through integrated academic and residential life. Located in the scenic Connecticut River Valley, Franklin also offers a postgraduate program, summer opportunities, and comprehensive diagnostic services through its Evaluation Center.
The Hangout Spot is a premier social skills development center dedicated to empowering children through evidence-based, play-based programming. Our ABA-informed services are designed and overseen by certified professionals who specialize in helping learners build meaningful peer connections and emotional resilience. We offer group classes, one-to-one support, and school consultation services tailored to each child’s unique needs. Families trust us for our warm, collaborative approach and our deep commitment to long-term growth and their vision of success. At The Hangout Spot, every child is seen, supported, and celebrated.
Inclusive Pathways Project LLC provides person-centered transition assessment and consultation services for adolescents and young adults with disabilities. Our comprehensive evaluations help identify strengths, support needs, interests, and future goals while providing practical recommendations related to employment, independent living, community participation, and adult services. We work collaboratively with families, schools, and service providers to support successful transitions into adulthood.
The Law Offices of Dana Jonson, LLC is a Connecticut firm focused on special education law and advocacy for students with disabilities. Dana represents families through the IEP process, mediation, and due process hearings to secure each child’s right to a free and appropriate public education, and also serves as a guardian ad litem to represent children’s best interests in family court when needed.
Not just an advocate! Learning Connections offers special education support services in the forms of advocacy, clinical evaluations, parent training, behavior intervention, assistance with the referral process, and representation at CSE and PPT meetings. Our goal is to help families navigate the intricacies of the special education system and provide support while collaborating with local school districts in the best interest of students. Meghan Daniele is a former chairperson with over 24 years of experience in both CT and NY.
Levy Educational Advocacy® is an educational collective dedicated to helping families navigate the educational system with confidence, clarity, and compassion. Our advocacy team includes former public and independent school administrators, district-level special education administrators, curriculum and instructional leaders, dyslexia specialists, and Orton-Gillingham practitioners. Collectively, our advocates bring extensive expertise in literacy, special education, school leadership, and systems-level change, while also understanding the human experience of supporting children with diverse learning needs. Guided by our philosophy: Expertise with Empathy. Advocacy with Impact.®, we partner with families and organizations to help students thrive in school, at home, and within their communities.
Milestones Behavioral Services was established in 1995 to address the unmet need for autism resources among Connecticut families. Today, Milestones operates three locations in Connecticut, including two school campuses for their state-approved special education program and an ABA early intervention clinic. They also offer consulting and clinical services within school districts and the community.
Mind Grove Psychology specializes in comprehensive, evidence-based neuropsychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults. We provide in-depth assessments to clarify developmental, emotional, and behavioral difficulties, with expertise in ADHD, learning differences, autism spectrum disorder, impulse-control issues, and mood and anxiety disorders. Every evaluation is tailored to the individual’s unique profile and translated into clear, actionable recommendations for schools, families, and treatment providers, including guidance for IEPs, 504 Plans, accommodations, placement decisions, and intervention planning. Our mission is to provide families with clarity, confidence, and a roadmap that helps each child reach their full potential.
OnwardWell helps older adolescents, young adults, and their families navigate emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges with compassionate, structured support. Our therapeutic coaching model complements traditional therapy by providing practical guidance in the real-world moments where growth happens—at home, at school, and in the community. We specialize in emotional regulation, executive functioning, anxiety, ADHD-related challenges, digital addiction, and family support, partnering closely with parents and other professionals to help young people move forward.
Saint Catherine Academy is a private, state-approved special education school for students ages 5 to 22 who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism. Saint Catherine Academy offers a high-quality alternative education for young people with special needs of all faiths and backgrounds. Small classes focus on academics, life skills development, and vocational experiences. Our teachers are state-certified professional educators who provide holistic social and academic education to students, supported by experienced instructional assistants and licensed therapists. Occupational, physical, and speech & language therapies are provided according to each student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
The mission of Special Education Equity for Kids in Connecticut (SEEK) is to secure an excellent education as a basic civil and human right for students with disabilities in Connecticut. SEEK exists to protect that right through systemic advocacy. There are a number of groups in the state of Connecticut that lobby on behalf of children who have disabilities, but none represent parents of children who have disabilities. That’s why we created SEEK. Special Education Equity for Kids of Connecticut plays an essential role in influencing policies and legislative efforts on behalf of students with disabilities. SEEK will also offer parents advocacy tools essential for securing appropriate special education services.
Sensory Play Center is an inclusive space where children of all ages—from toddlers to teenagers—can explore, play, and grow in a safe, welcoming environment. Our 90-minute open play sessions give kids the freedom to engage with sensory-rich features like swings, slides, a ball pit, a dramatic play area, and calming elements such as a bubble tube. Designed to support movement, creativity, and social connection, the center allows each child to play at their own pace while building confidence and skills. It’s a place where families can relax, connect, and enjoy the power of purposeful play together.
For over 25 years, Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities has inspired, educated and empowered parents to help their children succeed. Smart Kids offers webinars, newsletters, support groups, conferences, and other resources for families. Our programming provides families with practical strategies, expert guidance, and a supportive community to help children reach their full potential.
SPED*NET: Empowering Parents, Supporting Families, Changing Lives. A volunteer-run nonprofit empowering families of children and young adults with special needs with knowledge, support, and resources to navigate challenges, advocate effectively, and move forward with confidence. See how we can help at spednet.org.
Swim Angelfish provides Aquatic Therapy and Adaptive Swim lessons for children with Autism, Anxiety, Sensory, Motor and Developmental challenges. Our goal is to Transform abilities through our specialized services and resources for our swimmers, their families and all aquatic professionals.
Tara Fappiano provides advocacy for students/families with K-12 special education/disability concerns, conflict resolution coaching for families and students, mediation of special education/disability disputes, and advocacy for disability rights in educational and other areas. In the post-secondary education area, including college & beyond, Tara Fappiano counsels students and families on transition planning (including skill building and legal considerations), accommodations requests (academic and beyond), advocacy and dispute negotiation, academic appeals, and ongoing self-advocacy coaching support.
The Teen SLP provides individual and group speech therapy for tweens, teens, and young adults. Services focus on building social communication, executive functioning, self-advocacy, conversation, life, friendship, and workplace communication skills. Through practical, engaging therapy, clients develop greater confidence and independence at school, work, within friendships, and in everyday life.
Our goal at Individualized Education Advocacy, LLC is to help parents advocate more effectively as they work to secure an educational program that facilitates their child’s meaningful progress. We help parents better understand and navigate the special education process. We show parents how they can clearly communicate their child’s individual strengths; challenges and learning needs; concerns; and requests related to their child’s educational program. We also support parents in developing a constructive and professional relationship with the school team for the benefit of their child. Experience areas include learning differences related to reading and spelling/dyslexia, attention/hyperactivity (ADD/ADHD), writing, executive functioning, processing speed, math, social skills and others.
The mission of the Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center is to educate, support, and empower Connecticut’s families of children and youth with any disability or chronic conditions, ages birth to 26, and the professionals who serve them. CPAC is a nonprofit organization that provides information, training, individual assistance, and resources on navigating special education and related topics.
From initiating special education referrals to advocating at school planning and placement meetings—and, when necessary, representing families at Mediation, Resolution Sessions, or Due Process proceedings—the team at Keller Law brings extensive experience in helping parents navigate both expected and unforeseen challenges. We work to implement effective strategies that support each child’s educational progress. Our attorneys also have significant experience representing both general and special education students in expulsion hearings, residency disputes, and transportation-related issues.
Waypoint Financial is a fee-only financial advisory firm providing comprehensive planning services to individuals and families. Lukasz Thieme, CFA, CFP®, ChSNC® has a deep personal and professional understanding of the challenges families caring for individuals with special needs face. Waypoint is committed to providing clear, objective guidance tailored to each family’s unique situation. Our approach is grounded in education, empathy, and long-term partnership. As fiduciaries, we always act in our clients’ best interests—free from commissions or product sales.
OLIDA Learning provides engaging online courses to support educational and life skills learning for teens and young adults with disabilities. Our course titled “Your Guide to Self-Advocacy” is a self-paced, student-centered online course with voice-over and closed captions. We view our courses as an online textbook to digitally engage the student to take ownership of their learning and actively participate in their transition to a life beyond secondary school.
Attorney Lawrence Berliner is a dedicated special education law attorney with over 40 years of experience who passionately advocates for his clients – exclusively practicing throughout Connecticut. He helps parents pursue their child’s special education rights by providing legal representation, advocacy, and support in K-12 schools (IEP, PPT Meetings and Section 504 Meetings, mediation and due process hearings). His services also include Birth to Three programs, college and graduate disability accommodations, and postsecondary transition programs. He assists applicants who have been denied eligibility and services from the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS) by filing an appeal and requesting a formal administrative hearing and other remedies.
Laviano & Gagne represent children and adolescents with disabilities whose families are in disagreement with their public school districts. Their representation of children with special needs encompasses the full spectrum of Civil Rights advocacy under the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), from attendance at IEP Team meetings and Mediation, to zealous and experienced litigation in Due Process Hearings and Federal Court.
Julie Swanson is a passionate special education advocate with more than 20 years of experience helping parents secure appropriate services for their children with disabilities. Her advocacy practice grew out of advocating for her son who has autism. Julie holds an undergraduate degree in journalism / broadcasting from the University of Bridgeport and a master’s degree in Educational Media from Fairfield University. She later went on to earn an additional bachelor’s degree as a disability specialist from Manchester Community College. Julie is the founding president of SEEK (Special Equity for Kids of Connecticut) and is currently an executive board member. She is also a long-standing member of COPAA (Council of Parent Attorneys & Advocates), where she also received SEAT (Special Education Advocacy) Training. Julie was also a long-standing member of the Connecticut Transition Task Force and has served on a variety of State appointed special education committees. Julie is also the co-author (with Attorney Jennifer Laviano) of two special education books – Your Special Education Rights: What Your School District Isn’t Telling You and The IEP Guide for All: What Parents and Teachers Need to Know about Individualized Education Programs.
Brain Balance is a Drug-Free, Integrative, Multi Modal approach to improving Attention, Behavior and Cognition. Our methods are designed to improve connectivity throughout the brain. Stronger connections make the brain faster and more efficient, improving our ability to sustain attention, block out distractions, regulate our moods and emotions, and control our behaviors.
Kris Burbank is a seasoned parent, disability advocate, author, and certified one-on-one coach. Based on her life experiences and training, she partners with parents to build resilience, plan for the future, and optimize strengths. Through this personalized coaching, clients develop richer, more rewarding personal and professional lives, regardless of their caregiving challenges. Contact Kris through her website for a free 30-minute consultation to see if she can support you and your family.
Forte Law Group LLC is a child advocacy and special education law practice. We provide legal representation for families that have a child with a disability to advance their child’s special education rights. Our firm handles PPT meetings, mediation, and due process litigation. We also handle expulsion defense, MDR PPTs, and juvenile defense representation.
Dr. Smaller is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Madison, CT. Dr. Smaller’s services include comprehensive psychological evaluations, school consultation, and therapy with children, adolescents and young adults. Dr. Smaller specializes in working with children on the autism spectrum and is a member of the clinical faculty of the Yale Child Study Center.
