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:
A One-on-One Introductory Meeting
Special Education Starts Here
Clarity, support, and a plan forward… all in one focused hour.
This is a space where you can exhale. As a parent, grandparent, and seasoned speech-language pathologist, I understand how overwhelming this process can feel at the beginning. In one conversation, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to take those next steps with purpose.
During this 1-hour session, you will learn
✅ How the special education process works
✅ How to understand and discuss your child’s needs
✅ What services and supports may be available
✅ Where to go from here, with a personalized action plan. This meeting is your solid start. If you want continued partnership, I offer ongoing one-on-one coaching that keeps you supported, informed, and empowered through the entire journey.
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.
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: $100/hour
Meeting Attendance:$200/hour
Scholarships are available. Please email for more info.
Meet Your Coach
Welcome I’m Dr. Judi!
As a parent, grandparent, speech-language pathologist, professor, and communication coach, I sat on both sides of the special education table. I understand what happens in meetings, what professionals often leave unsaid, and how overwhelming the process can feel for families who just want to help their child thrive.
For more than 30 years, I’ve supported children with diverse needs in schools, hospitals, rehab centers, and homes. Autism. Speech delays. Multiple impairments. I’ve led countless IEP and special education meetings, trained educators, and spoken nationwide about effective communication. Through all of it, I’ve noticed a consistent truth: parents are expected to navigate a system that was never designed to guide them.
That’s why I’m here.
I believe families deserve clarity, confidence, and a meaningful voice. Together, we’ll make sure you understand your options, ask the right questions, and walk into every meeting prepared. Because when parents are empowered, children get what they need to grow, learn, and shine.
You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s advocate for your child’s success, side by side.
