The Wholistically PsychEd Podcast

What happens when a school psychologist is also the parent of an autistic child? You get insight that’s honest, nuanced, and deeply human. In this episode of Wholistically PsychEd , I sit down with Ryan Hogan —known online as @worldsokayestschoolpsych —to talk about what it’s really like to sit on both sides of the IEP table. Ryan is a Texas-based school psych, a content creator, and a dad to an a...

In this heart-centered and eye-opening episode of Wholistically Psyched , I sit down with licensed Christian therapist and author Meaghan Hampton , the creator behind Soul Care for Families and The Big Feelings Book . Together, they explore what it means to raise emotionally healthy kids while staying rooted in faith — even when it means rethinking traditional Christian parenting approaches. From...

In this episode of Wholistically Psyched , I sit down with the incredible Jenn Adams—special education teacher, instructional coach, and the force behind Teach Love Autism . With her honest insights and practical strategies, Jenn has become a trusted voice in the special education world, offering resources and real talk for educators who often feel overwhelmed and under-supported. Together, we div...

In this episode, I’m joined by Courtney Johnson, a virtual school psychologist and wellness mentor who’s redefining what it means to serve students and families with boldness, intention, and care. Courtney shares her inspiring transition from traditional school settings to the virtual space and how this shift has empowered her to show up more holistically—for both the families she supports and her...

In this episode of Wholistically PsychEd , I sit down with Stephanie DeLussey, a veteran special education teacher turned entrepreneur, author, and IEP coach behind the powerhouse platform The Intentional IEP . Stephanie shares her inspiring journey from classroom teacher to content creator, opening up about the fears, mindset shifts, and lessons she learned along the way. Together, we dive deep i...

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Delaney Gillespie — a Southern California public school teacher, woman of faith, and passionate advocate for students’ well-being. Delaney shares what it looks like to pray for her students, the emotional weight educators silently carry, and how deep the mental health crisis has impacted her classroom. We also pull back the curtain on the instability faci...

In this episode of Wholistically PsychEd , I sit down with Kelli Fetter, occupational therapist and founder of Handwriting Solutions, to uncover why handwriting is much more than just putting pen to paper. Kelli shares how handwriting impacts brain development, literacy, and self-esteem, and offers insight into challenges like dyslexia and dysgraphia. We explore how COVID and increased technology...

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Larah Roberts — a fellow sister in Christ, passionate parent advocate, co-author of How to Advocate and Stay Christian , and the heartfelt voice behind Raising Autistic Disciples on Instagram. As a parent of an autistic child, Larah shares her journey through the complex world of special education and advocacy, all while staying rooted in the gospel. Toge...

In this eye-opening episode of Wholistically PsychEd , school psychologist Mariah Choate pulls back the curtain on a practice that’s happening far too often in schools — quietly breaking the law. Tune in as Mariah dives into real scenarios where students with behavioral needs have been moved to alternative more restrictive settings without the protection of an IEP or proper evaluations. These unsp...

In this episode of Wholistically PsychEd , we’re joined by an experienced occupational therapist, feeding specialist, and parent coach, Alex Klann of Tiny Bite Wellness, who supports families navigating picky eating. We dive into the complex, multi-step process of feeding—exploring the sensory, motor, and emotional systems involved. Our guest breaks down why mealtimes can feel so overwhelming and...

After a long winter break, we’re diving right in with a topic that’s on the minds of many parents: When is the right time to hire an advocate for your child’s IEP meetings? In today’s episode, I’ll break down the pros and cons, share practical insights, and help you determine if hiring an advocate is the right move for your family—or if there are other steps to take first. Don’t miss this empoweri...

In this episode, I sit down with a behavior and learning specialist and former teacher, Danielle from Steam Made Simple, who brings a wealth of experience and a powerful personal story to the conversation. Together, we explore the importance of intentional neurodivergent practices—what they look like, why they matter, and how they can transform the lives of students at home and in the classroom. W...

In this episode, join me as I dive into the ways districts often sidestep special education laws, leaving students without the support they need and families (and educators) feeling powerless. From vague criteria to inadequate implementation of interventions, we’ll break down the common tactics used to avoid compliance and what you, as a parent or educator, can do to hold the system accountable. T...

In this episode, join me as I uncover the essential questions every parent should ask during an IEP meeting to ensure their child’s unique needs are met. We’ll also explore the frustrating reality of district gatekeeping—how it shows up, why it happens, and the strategies families can use to advocate effectively. Whether you’re navigating the IEP process for the first time or looking for ways to b...

In this episode, join me as I interview Briana from EducationallyPsyched, a high school level school psychologist who explains the critical role of transparency in IEP teams. We discuss the importance of clear communication about eligibility and disabilities, ensuring that students and families fully understand the process and decisions that impact their education. The conversation highlights stra...

In this PART 2 episode, join me as I interview a dyslexia expert, Michelle Henderson of @all.kids.can who shares her personal journey navigating special education with her son. We discuss how her experiences shaped her insights on identifying and supporting children with dyslexia. Listeners will gain practical tools and free resource options for spotting early signs of dyslexia, guidance on securi...

In this PART 1 episode, join me as I interview a dyslexia expert, Michelle Henderson of @all.kids.can who shares her personal journey navigating special education with her son. We discuss how her experiences shaped her insights on identifying and supporting children with dyslexia. Listeners will gain practical tools and free resource options for spotting early signs of dyslexia, guidance on securi...

In episode 3, we take a quick overview of the Response to Intervention (RTI) through the Student Student Team (SST) or Multi Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) process. We discuss how districts typically get it wrong and what parents and staff can do to make sure they get it right, along with some resources to ensure this happens as seamlessly as possible!  *Note : The SST resources discussed i...

In our very first guest episode, we invite creator of Mad Charlie Inc., Angela Powell to share her unique insight from her son's journey in special education in Tennessee and how it led to her now advocacy work for other families. Resources & Links: 🔴 GUEST Information: https://www.madcharlieinc.com/ IG | @madcharlieinc | https://www.instagram.com/madcharlieinc/ 🔴 Subscribe for more Advocacy...

Welcome to my very first episode of The Wholistically PsychEd Podcast! I’m so happy you’re here! In this episode, we cover:  Some backstory of my experiences, observations, and disappointment in the school system. A basic overview of what is *actually* wrong with the system. Pivoting from the school system to being a SAHM and creating digital products for parents and educators. How YOU can jo...

Hello and welcome to the Wholistically PsychEd podcast!  I’m your host, Mariah Choate, a nationally certified school psychologist turned stay-at-home mom who now has the freedom to share what school districts don't want you to know after spending over a decade in the field of education. My goal is to help you learn all you need to know about special education that districts often gatekeep. Ea...