Navigating Special Education,
Together
Navigating special education can feel like stepping into a foreign world. But it doesn’t have to.
The meetings, the jargon, the pressure to fight for your child— it’s overwhelming and lonely. But you don’t have to do it alone.
Communication Institutes provides clear, compassionate guidance. Work with Judi Grunwald, PhD., CCC-SLP, an expert with 30+ years of experience, to gain confidence, clarity, and the tools to take action.
Become a confident, prepared, & expert member of your child’s IEP team.
Learn how to effectively advocate for your child’s education and services.
Reduce overwhelm and stress with someone in your corner.
Welcome to the Communication Institutes
Where we empower parents with the tools, knowledge, & support needed to navigate their child’s education.
Stepping into the special education system can feel overwhelming. You’re handed a pile of paperwork, thrown into meetings, and expected to make big decisions for your child— without clear guidance. I’m here to change that. I’ll help you understand the process, prepare for meetings, and confidently advocate for your child. You don’t have to figure this out alone. With the right tools and support, you can navigate this journey with clarity and confidence.
Are you getting lost in the special education system?
The first step is to understand what all of the acronyms you will encounter in Special Education stand for.
Download the free guide “What Are All Those Initials???”
Let’s Work Together to Support Your Child’s Education
START HERE:
Navigating Special Education: A Self-Guided Course
All of our clients start here! Once you have completed this introductory course, you are ready for coaching or IEP meeting support.
This course gives you the tools to understand the special education system, prepare for meetings, and advocate with confidence. Learn at your own pace, gain insider knowledge, and walk into every conversation ready to speak up for your child.
THE NEXT STEP:
One-on-One Coaching with Judi
Feeling lost in the special education process? You’re not alone. I’ll walk you through each step— breaking down the jargon, helping you prepare, and giving you the confidence to advocate for your child. Together, we’ll set goals and create a plan so you feel informed, empowered, and ready.
45-min Zoom Session: $100
5 Session Package: $450
10 Session Package: $800
Scholarships are available. Please email for more info.
BOOK NOW(need link)
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT:
Attending the IEP Meeting with You
IEP meetings can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. I’ll be by your side— ensuring you feel supported, prepared, and heard. With me there, you’ll have the confidence to participate as a valued member of the team and make sure your child’s needs are truly met.
Attendance at the IEP Meeting:
Prep. Sessions: $60/hour
Meeting Attendance: $100/hour
Scholarships are available. Please email for more info.
Let’s Work Together to Support Your Child’s Education
START HERE:
Navigating Special Education: A Self-Guided Course
This course gives you the tools to understand the special education system, prepare for meetings, and advocate with confidence. Learn at your own pace, gain insider knowledge, and walk into every conversation ready to speak up for your child.
THE NEXT STEP:
One-on-One Coaching with Judi
Feeling lost in the special education process? You’re not alone. I’ll walk you through each step— breaking down the jargon, helping you prepare, and giving you the confidence to advocate for your child. Together, we’ll set goals and create a plan so you feel informed, empowered, and ready.
45-min Zoom Session: $100
Packages available after the first session.
Scholarships are available. Please email for more info.
BOOK NOW
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT:
Attending the IEP Meeting with You
IEP meetings can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. I’ll be by your side— ensuring you feel supported, prepared, and heard. With me there, you’ll have the confidence to participate as a valued member of the team and make sure your child’s needs are truly met.
Attendance at Meeting & Preparation for IEP Meetings: includes up to 1 Meeting and 3 -1 hour Prep sessions: $500
Scholarships are available. Please email for more info.
Meet Your Coach
Welcome! I’m Judi
As a parent, grandparent, speech-language pathologist, professor, and communication coach, I’ve sat on both sides of the education table. I know what happens in meetings, what professionals don’t always say out loud, and how to ensure parents have a real voice in the process.
For over 30 years, I’ve worked in schools, hospitals, rehab centers, and homes— helping children with diverse needs, including autism, speech delays, and multiple impairments. I’ve led special education meetings, trained educators, and presented nationwide on communication and advocacy. But what I’ve seen time and time again is parents struggling to navigate a system that wasn’t built to guide them. That’s why I do this work.
I believe informed parents make the biggest impact. I’ll make sure you have the knowledge, confidence, and support to advocate for your child— and leave every meeting knowing you did everything possible.
