Specialized College Counseling and Therapeutic Placement Support for Students Who Learn and Think Differently
Most college counselors focus on helping students get in to the college of their dreams. I help students who learn and think differently thrive in the right college to meet their dreams. Getting in is only half the story when you learn differently. After over 13 years supporting students with ADHD, AuDHD, learning differences, 2E profiles, and emotional disabilities identify and access the supports that matter, I know what high schools and colleges rarely tell you: the right fit, the right disability services, and the right self-advocacy skills that matter for life, college, and career success.
Alera exists because the guidance you need shouldn’t fall through the cracks at your child’s IEP and Section 504 meetings.
In other words, Alera fills the gaps.
Why Choose Alera?
Services Include:
Tailored Post-High School Search: Bridging the daunting High School to College search for neurodivergent students
Demystifying Disability Support Services at College: Identifying and advocating for the right supports and accommodations so students can learn and thrive in school and college
Executive Functioning & Self Advocacy: Coaching students in understanding how to be their own case manager in college (supports available for high school IEP meeting prep, Freshman year of college, and beyond)
Therapeutic Day School, Boarding, and Residential Treatment Center (RTC) Search: Determining and coordinating the most appropriate setting for students who may need support beyond what their local schools can offer
Free 30 minute consultation: email Erin@AleraEd.com or call 312-608-8926
I’m glad you’re here! I’m Erin Sharkey, Founder of Alera Educational Services. I have over 13 years’ experience as a Special Education Administrator and School Psychologist providing post-high school transition planning and therapeutic supports for over 1000 families at IEP and Section 504 meetings.
My background and specialties:
I am specialized in neurodivergent learners (including learners with ADHD, autism, twice-exceptional (2E) profiles, learning differences, and emotional disabilities)
I give actionable strengths-based recommendations students, schools, and colleges can realistically implement
I carry a deep knowledge of K-12 school, therapeutic and residential placements, and college disability services nationwide