SERVICES
College Consulting for Students & Families
Overview
Dr. Katie helps families navigate individualized post-high school education pathways. For students with learning support needs, finding the right resources can be complex. Our process evaluates each student across seven key areas of college readiness, creating a personalized plan to achieve their education goals. With empathy and a focus on communication and social-emotional challenges, we primarily support Colorado-based students and families through a hybrid virtual/in-person approach.
Guidance On 7 Areas of College-Readiness
Dr. Katie addresses 7 areas of college-readiness: Two that are significant for the family, and 5 essential areas of skills every student needs for college persistence through graduation. With the family, we consider: Essential Documents for learning accommodation registration, and general Financial Fit. The five skills areas the student needs include:
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Academic Acumen
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Self-Awareness
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Self-Advocacy
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Self-management or EF
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Motivation+Confidence
Dr.Katie uses qualitative evaluation methods during a family meeting to determine what essential skill areas need prioritized support, and recommends tools and resources accessible for the student and family to build those skill sets.
Post-High School Options Exploration
Choosing the right path after high school can feel overwhelming, especially for students who need learning accommodations or extra support. A Bachelor’s degree granting college is just one of many options—there are many pathways that align with different strengths, interests, and goals. Below are ten post-high school options to consider when planning for the next step in education, career, and independence.
● Bachelor’s granting, aka “Four-Year College” (4 year degrees are a misnomer: 80% of undergraduate student take 6 years on average time to earn Bachelor’s degree)
● These options include various environments such as large-size public research, medium-size private, medium-size regional state, small liberal arts, etc.
● Community College (GenEd Assoc + Bachelor degree options)
● Technical School (marketable training)
● Trade School (career certification)
● Cooperative Education Program (Gap options)
● Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (TPSID aka THINK programs)
● Life Skills and Independent Living Program
● Certificate Program
● Job Training
● Apprenticeship
Support With Extracurriculars, Test Prep, Applications, etc.
The college application process involves more than just academics—it includes extracurricular activities, standardized testing, and personal essays, all of which can play a role in admissions. Dr. Katie evaluates each student’s skill development in these areas to determine the level of support needed. While AutismNERD specializes in overall college readiness, our team includes Associates who provide direct assistance, and we also refer families to trusted community resources for specialized guidance. Because different college options weigh these components differently, Dr. Katie ensures that each student receives the right support based on their unique goals and application requirements.
Ready To Get Started?
With expert guidance tailored to your student’s unique strengths and challenges, AutismNERD helps families create a clear, realistic plan for success beyond high school. Whether you're exploring options, understanding accommodations, or building essential college-readiness skills, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Complete our intake form to begin the conversation, schedule a time to meet Dr.Katie, and take the first step toward a well-planned college journey for your student.
At Colorado’s largest university, 15% of total student enrollment is DSO registered. This is considered an average percentage across U.S. colleges.
Taking a broad definition of neurodivergence (including autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, and other cognitive differences), estimates suggest this up to 30% of the U.S. population
Summary: More students likely need access to official college learning accommodations than currently receive support.
What Is At Stake?
The current estimate for neurodivergent students who do attend college, only 40% will make it to graduation. For the other 6 out of 10 students, costs in terms of financial, experiential, and emotional can be high. This is the difference between students who are “college-capable” or admissions ready, vs “college-ready” or graduation capable. Our college-readiness evaluation explores 7 dynamics of essential components that bridge necessary skills to transition from college-capable to college-ready. This data driven approach in making choices for college supports a family during a critical transition period and supports a student to continue a path of progress in their education journey toward the goal of graduation.
A few Research Facts:
(2016) For every 10 LD/ND students that start at a bachelor’s granting college, 4 make it to graduation
(2023) Across Junior engineering students, 40% self-identified ND but 10% were enrolled in campus DSO accommodations
(2022) Across all Colorado colleges, for all enrolled students, 7% were enrolled in campus DSO (Disability Services Office) accommodations
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What types of students and families do you work with?I support families of neurodiverse high school students across all ND/LD profiles who need learning accommodations in college or post-secondary education. With personal experience across autism, ADHD, anxiety, learning differences, and executive functioning challenges, I help motivated students navigate their next steps.
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How does your consulting process work?Once we sign our agreement to work together and the initial retainer deposit is paid, I review key documents (IEP/504, neuro-evaluations, transcripts) and schedule an in-person visit (Denver metro area). Using a qualitative approach, I assess college readiness across seven key areas in a relaxed setting where students and families can ask questions. I then provide personalized recommendations and ongoing support as needed.
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Do you offer guarantees?I cannot guarantee outcomes, secure college admissions, compel participation, or ensure graduation. I do not have a magic wand. But my knowledge is your power, and I am highly knowledgeable on all aspects of college and support for learning challenges. Therefore, if your family is unsure where to start, overwhelmed by options, or worried about the financial risk of “trying college” without a clear plan, our conversation can help you navigate the best path forward.
