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Literacy, Language, Learning Disorders, Memory, and Attention (SLP)
Mike Z.

5.0 (93 ratings)

119 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
Hourly Rate: $120
Contact Mike
Response time: 5 hours
Mike Z.'s Photo
Mike Z.'s Photo Mike Z.'s Photo Mike Z.'s Photo Mike Z.'s Photo Mike Z.'s Photo Mike Z.'s Photo

Literacy, Language, Learning Disorders, Memory, and Attention (SLP)
Literacy, Language, Learning Disorders, Memory, and Attention (SLP)
Mike Z.

5.0 (93 ratings)

119 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee
5.0 (93 ratings)

119 hours tutoring

Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

About Mike

Bio

I'm a speech-language pathologist (SLP). We're experts in communication, but a big part of what I do involves academic support. Here are a few examples:

-phonics, literacy, dyslexia
-written composition
-short/long-term memory
-study skills/methods
-cognitive skills (reasoning, etc.)
-social-pragmatic skills (autism)
-speech-articulation (speech impediments)
-accent modification/reduction
-diagnostic evaluation

I have more than 15 years of experience in special education and behavioral...

I'm a speech-language pathologist (SLP). We're experts in communication, but a big part of what I do involves academic support. Here are a few examples:

-phonics, literacy, dyslexia
-written composition
-short/long-term memory
-study skills/methods
-cognitive skills (reasoning, etc.)
-social-pragmatic skills (autism)
-speech-articulation (speech impediments)
-accent modification/reduction
-diagnostic evaluation

I have more than 15 years of experience in special education and behavioral intervention. Before moving to New Orleans to pursue a Masters of Science in Communication Disorders, I worked in some of the best charter schools in the nation. Now I run a virtual private practice (SpeakEasily SLP). I've learned a lot about what it takes to be a good teacher and SLP. Most of it has to do with bringing out the best in your students. Here's my basic philosophy.

1) The student must be INVESTED in the relationship. The best, most lasting kind of learning happens once a relationship has been established. Almost everyone can name that one teacher for whom this was true. Ultimately, you can't make someone learn; they must be motivated to do so on their own, and this develops through investment. It's what really drives the whole experience.

2) A student must progress through the material in the right ORDER, or what we call a hierarchy of skills. This seems pretty simple, but the hard part is finding exactly where those gaps exist. A teacher must be able to identify them and make a plan to address them. This involves the use of multi-sensory instruction/practice. So we'll use everything: colors, shapes, space, movement, patterns, sounds, songs, whiteboards, flashcards, tossing, jumping, and even pen and paper.

3) Have a good time! Learning, in its basic form, is a fun thing to do. So let's keep it that way. Let's build confidence (which is fun) and get better (which is also fun).

Don't hesitate to contact me. I'll be happy to talk.

Read more

Education

BA, Northeastern University, Boston, MA
Communication, Public Advocacy
LSU Health and Sciences Center, School of Allied Health Professions
Masters

Policies

  • Hourly Rate: $120
  • Rate details: Ask me about my sliding scale. It's made to offer financial assistance to a wide range of families. You could qualify for a lower rate.

  • Background check passed on 6/24/2014

  • Your first lesson is backed by our Good Fit Guarantee

Schedule

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Approved Subjects

Business

Public Speaking

Public Speaking

As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I have been clinically trained in specific techniques to help others improve the most important aspects of public speaking: voice, resonance, delivery, breath support, and paralinguistics, like gesture and body language. I've also used many of these same techniques to help me improve my own public speaking skills. Whether speaking to a small group of colleagues or presenting my own research to an auditorium of hundreds, I've managed to overcome my own fears and find success rather than anxiety. And now I hope to share my knowledge and experience with you.

Corporate Training

Grammar,

Grammar

Believe it or not, grammar can be a lot of fun... Okay, you don't have to take my word for it just yet. Here's my first rule: forget everything they tried to teach you when you were a kid. No one teaches it like that anymore (and that's for a reason). Second rule: one step at a time. We'll break it down and take it easy. You'll feel better about it in no time!
Public Speaking,

Public Speaking

As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I have been clinically trained in specific techniques to help others improve the most important aspects of public speaking: voice, resonance, delivery, breath support, and paralinguistics, like gesture and body language. I've also used many of these same techniques to help me improve my own public speaking skills. Whether speaking to a small group of colleagues or presenting my own research to an auditorium of hundreds, I've managed to overcome my own fears and find success rather than anxiety. And now I hope to share my knowledge and experience with you.
Spanish

Spanish

I’m a level B2 on the McGraw-Hill international fluency assessment. I’ve clocked over 1,500 hours of study, and I attend a weekly Spanish conversation group. I’ve completed both the Pimsleur and the Rosetta Stone program. But the truth is, none of that means anything for people who are only in their first few years of learning Spanish, which is why I believe it’s extremely important to begin Spanish with the right foundation. If you’re studying independently, I can show you a different approach — one that more resembles natural language acquisition. If you’re bound to the school-based curriculum, I can show you how to use a number of memory and association techniques to your advantage. I use pattern-based learning because it’s the way we learn in the real world. And most importantly, it’ll be fun.

Elementary Education

Elementary (K-6th),

Elementary (K-6th)

Elementary school is a very important time for students. It's the period when they develop the foundational knowledge that will be crucial for success in middle school and beyond. As an SLP with ancillary teacher certification, I'm not only familiar with Common Core Curriculum, I'm also well trained to break it down step-by-step.
Elementary Math,

Elementary Math

Math isn't as scary as most people think. I know this because I used to be terrified of the subject. A lot of it had to do with the old way of teaching. Thankfully, a lot has changed. I've learned a lot about the new methods for teaching and understanding math and found them to be extremely helpful to the group of students that just don't seem to get it like the other kids. We'll be using manipulatives, methods for conceptual organization, and discussion, in order to think about math and not just memorize rules and formulas. The best part is seeing the look of relief once the student realizes that they CAN learn this stuff. That's when it starts to be fun!
Grammar,

Grammar

Believe it or not, grammar can be a lot of fun... Okay, you don't have to take my word for it just yet. Here's my first rule: forget everything they tried to teach you when you were a kid. No one teaches it like that anymore (and that's for a reason). Second rule: one step at a time. We'll break it down and take it easy. You'll feel better about it in no time!
Handwriting,

Handwriting

Handwriting has more to do with spelling than most people realize, and vice-versa. For some kids, it can be the key to finally overcoming [b] and [d] reversal. I have over eight years of experience teaching handwriting having been trained in the Reading Mastery SRA Signature Edition method. I work closely with occupational therapists and collaborate to develop intervention plans designed to target specific objectives, especially as these relate to written language deficits.
Phonics,

Phonics

Now I'm an SLP, but I used to teach kindergarten. At the end of the school year, 82% of my class could read at a mid-first grade reading level (1.5). All the remaining students, except for three, were at first grade level. The three that were not still overcame a full grade deficit. I was trained to provide SRA Reading Mastery resources and they're still my favorite. Literacy and phonics are my passion. As someone who is dyslexic, I'm familiar with all the pain kids experience trying to learn to read. I always make my sessions fun and engaging. Contact me and I'll be happy to describe my approach and how I'll tailor it for you or your child.
Reading,

Reading

I am trained in Reading Mastery SRA Signature Edition Program, Lively Letters; experienced in Linda Mood-Bell techniques (Visualizing and Verbalizing), Davis Method, and more. Most importantly, I use my own expertise to create a dynamic and personalized program just for your child.
Spelling,

Spelling

Spelling - what is it that makes this challenging? I bet it has to do with the way you were taught. I'm glad to say that a few simple adjustments can make all the difference in how you approach something like spelling. I won't reveal everything, but it's definitely not about strict (rote) memorization...
Study Skills,

Study Skills

As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I have developed a particular set of skills that enable me to provide traditional and alternative methods of studying to achieve success on most standardized tests. In addition, I have personal experience (and success) with graduate level examinations and standardized tests, such as the GRE. With over 10 years experience in charter schools, I am also familiar with standardized testing procedures, theory, and best-practices.
Elementary Science, Vocabulary

English

Grammar,

Grammar

Believe it or not, grammar can be a lot of fun... Okay, you don't have to take my word for it just yet. Here's my first rule: forget everything they tried to teach you when you were a kid. No one teaches it like that anymore (and that's for a reason). Second rule: one step at a time. We'll break it down and take it easy. You'll feel better about it in no time!
Public Speaking,

Public Speaking

As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I have been clinically trained in specific techniques to help others improve the most important aspects of public speaking: voice, resonance, delivery, breath support, and paralinguistics, like gesture and body language. I've also used many of these same techniques to help me improve my own public speaking skills. Whether speaking to a small group of colleagues or presenting my own research to an auditorium of hundreds, I've managed to overcome my own fears and find success rather than anxiety. And now I hope to share my knowledge and experience with you.
Reading,

Reading

I am trained in Reading Mastery SRA Signature Edition Program, Lively Letters; experienced in Linda Mood-Bell techniques (Visualizing and Verbalizing), Davis Method, and more. Most importantly, I use my own expertise to create a dynamic and personalized program just for your child.
Spelling,

Spelling

Spelling - what is it that makes this challenging? I bet it has to do with the way you were taught. I'm glad to say that a few simple adjustments can make all the difference in how you approach something like spelling. I won't reveal everything, but it's definitely not about strict (rote) memorization...
Writing,

Writing

Most people believe writing to be a spontaneously learned ability; that it just happens after reading a lot. I'm glad to say that's not true. Writing is a skill, and like any other skill in the world it can be learned. Using a few basic principles, I guarantee you'll see an improvement in your writing.
English, Vocabulary

History

American History,

American History

As an SLP, I've learned dozens of ways to improve your memory for retaining even the most difficult material. Often, that's at the center of things when students are struggling to perform in history classes. We'll work to make it easy, and from there, things can start to be fun again.
European History, Geography, Government & Politics, Social Studies, World History

Homeschool

Elementary (K-6th),

Elementary (K-6th)

Elementary school is a very important time for students. It's the period when they develop the foundational knowledge that will be crucial for success in middle school and beyond. As an SLP with ancillary teacher certification, I'm not only familiar with Common Core Curriculum, I'm also well trained to break it down step-by-step.
Handwriting,

Handwriting

Handwriting has more to do with spelling than most people realize, and vice-versa. For some kids, it can be the key to finally overcoming [b] and [d] reversal. I have over eight years of experience teaching handwriting having been trained in the Reading Mastery SRA Signature Edition method. I work closely with occupational therapists and collaborate to develop intervention plans designed to target specific objectives, especially as these relate to written language deficits.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

Math (Prealgebra) isn't as scary as most people think. I know this because I used to be terrified of the subject. A lot of it had to do with the old way of teaching. Thankfully, a lot has changed. I've learned a lot about the new methods for teaching and understanding math and found them to be extremely helpful to the group of students that just don't seem to get it like the other kids. We'll be using manipulatives, methods for conceptual organization, and discussion in order to think about math and not just memorize rules and formulas. The best part is seeing the look of relief once the student realizes that they CAN learn this. That's when it starts to be fun.
Reading,

Reading

I am trained in Reading Mastery SRA Signature Edition Program, Lively Letters; experienced in Linda Mood-Bell techniques (Visualizing and Verbalizing), Davis Method, and more. Most importantly, I use my own expertise to create a dynamic and personalized program just for your child.
Spanish,

Spanish

I’m a level B2 on the McGraw-Hill international fluency assessment. I’ve clocked over 1,500 hours of study, and I attend a weekly Spanish conversation group. I’ve completed both the Pimsleur and the Rosetta Stone program. But the truth is, none of that means anything for people who are only in their first few years of learning Spanish, which is why I believe it’s extremely important to begin Spanish with the right foundation. If you’re studying independently, I can show you a different approach — one that more resembles natural language acquisition. If you’re bound to the school-based curriculum, I can show you how to use a number of memory and association techniques to your advantage. I use pattern-based learning because it’s the way we learn in the real world. And most importantly, it’ll be fun.
Spelling,

Spelling

Spelling - what is it that makes this challenging? I bet it has to do with the way you were taught. I'm glad to say that a few simple adjustments can make all the difference in how you approach something like spelling. I won't reveal everything, but it's definitely not about strict (rote) memorization...
Study Skills,

Study Skills

As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I have developed a particular set of skills that enable me to provide traditional and alternative methods of studying to achieve success on most standardized tests. In addition, I have personal experience (and success) with graduate level examinations and standardized tests, such as the GRE. With over 10 years experience in charter schools, I am also familiar with standardized testing procedures, theory, and best-practices.
Writing,

Writing

Most people believe writing to be a spontaneously learned ability; that it just happens after reading a lot. I'm glad to say that's not true. Writing is a skill, and like any other skill in the world it can be learned. Using a few basic principles, I guarantee you'll see an improvement in your writing.
English

Language

Spanish

Spanish

I’m a level B2 on the McGraw-Hill international fluency assessment. I’ve clocked over 1,500 hours of study, and I attend a weekly Spanish conversation group. I’ve completed both the Pimsleur and the Rosetta Stone program. But the truth is, none of that means anything for people who are only in their first few years of learning Spanish, which is why I believe it’s extremely important to begin Spanish with the right foundation. If you’re studying independently, I can show you a different approach — one that more resembles natural language acquisition. If you’re bound to the school-based curriculum, I can show you how to use a number of memory and association techniques to your advantage. I use pattern-based learning because it’s the way we learn in the real world. And most importantly, it’ll be fun.

Math

Prealgebra

Prealgebra

Math (Prealgebra) isn't as scary as most people think. I know this because I used to be terrified of the subject. A lot of it had to do with the old way of teaching. Thankfully, a lot has changed. I've learned a lot about the new methods for teaching and understanding math and found them to be extremely helpful to the group of students that just don't seem to get it like the other kids. We'll be using manipulatives, methods for conceptual organization, and discussion in order to think about math and not just memorize rules and formulas. The best part is seeing the look of relief once the student realizes that they CAN learn this. That's when it starts to be fun.

Most Popular

Elementary (K-6th),

Elementary (K-6th)

Elementary school is a very important time for students. It's the period when they develop the foundational knowledge that will be crucial for success in middle school and beyond. As an SLP with ancillary teacher certification, I'm not only familiar with Common Core Curriculum, I'm also well trained to break it down step-by-step.
Prealgebra,

Prealgebra

Math (Prealgebra) isn't as scary as most people think. I know this because I used to be terrified of the subject. A lot of it had to do with the old way of teaching. Thankfully, a lot has changed. I've learned a lot about the new methods for teaching and understanding math and found them to be extremely helpful to the group of students that just don't seem to get it like the other kids. We'll be using manipulatives, methods for conceptual organization, and discussion in order to think about math and not just memorize rules and formulas. The best part is seeing the look of relief once the student realizes that they CAN learn this. That's when it starts to be fun.
Reading,

Reading

I am trained in Reading Mastery SRA Signature Edition Program, Lively Letters; experienced in Linda Mood-Bell techniques (Visualizing and Verbalizing), Davis Method, and more. Most importantly, I use my own expertise to create a dynamic and personalized program just for your child.
Spanish,

Spanish

I’m a level B2 on the McGraw-Hill international fluency assessment. I’ve clocked over 1,500 hours of study, and I attend a weekly Spanish conversation group. I’ve completed both the Pimsleur and the Rosetta Stone program. But the truth is, none of that means anything for people who are only in their first few years of learning Spanish, which is why I believe it’s extremely important to begin Spanish with the right foundation. If you’re studying independently, I can show you a different approach — one that more resembles natural language acquisition. If you’re bound to the school-based curriculum, I can show you how to use a number of memory and association techniques to your advantage. I use pattern-based learning because it’s the way we learn in the real world. And most importantly, it’ll be fun.
Study Skills,

Study Skills

As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I have developed a particular set of skills that enable me to provide traditional and alternative methods of studying to achieve success on most standardized tests. In addition, I have personal experience (and success) with graduate level examinations and standardized tests, such as the GRE. With over 10 years experience in charter schools, I am also familiar with standardized testing procedures, theory, and best-practices.
Writing,

Writing

Most people believe writing to be a spontaneously learned ability; that it just happens after reading a lot. I'm glad to say that's not true. Writing is a skill, and like any other skill in the world it can be learned. Using a few basic principles, I guarantee you'll see an improvement in your writing.
English

Other

Study Skills,

Study Skills

As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I have developed a particular set of skills that enable me to provide traditional and alternative methods of studying to achieve success on most standardized tests. In addition, I have personal experience (and success) with graduate level examinations and standardized tests, such as the GRE. With over 10 years experience in charter schools, I am also familiar with standardized testing procedures, theory, and best-practices.
Geography, Government & Politics

Special Needs

ADHD,

ADHD

As an SLP I've worked with all kinds of students facing all kinds of challenges, including kids with ADD/ADHD. For this population deficits can present in a number of areas, both academic and personal. I work to address the whole child and create gains across the board. My experience as an SLP makes me well-equipped to draw upon a mix of therapuetic approaches, while still making our sessions fun and engaging -- always meeting the child where they are.
Dyslexia,

Dyslexia

I am not only a highly-trained SLP with over 10,000 hours of experience working directly with persons with dyslexia, I am one! Some of my earliest memories are of me struggling to learn the basic concepts of reading (and math). I also had trouble with procedural memory activities (tying my shoes), episodic memory (what the heck did I do yesterday), and semantic memory (what's that thing called again?). It took me years to overcome it, and most of it I had to learn on my own. Now I'm a language specialist, and I help others so they don't have to go it alone. That said, I've never met two people with the exact same kind of dyslexia, so I promise to deliver a highly personalized experience. It will be adaptive and dynamic, and it will cover more than just reading, itself.
Phonics,

Phonics

Now I'm an SLP, but I used to teach kindergarten. At the end of the school year, 82% of my class could read at a mid-first grade reading level (1.5). All the remaining students, except for three, were at first grade level. The three that were not still overcame a full grade deficit. I was trained to provide SRA Reading Mastery resources and they're still my favorite. Literacy and phonics are my passion. As someone who is dyslexic, I'm familiar with all the pain kids experience trying to learn to read. I always make my sessions fun and engaging. Contact me and I'll be happy to describe my approach and how I'll tailor it for you or your child.
Special Needs,

Special Needs

As an SLP I've worked with children with special needs in a number of settings, including public schools, in-home, and outpatient pediatric rehab. Whether the needs are mild or severe, I'm confident I can provide the kind of relationship-based, personalized instruction you seek.
Speech,

Speech

I received a Masters of Science in Communication Disorders (MCD) from Louisiana State University, School of Allied Health Professions in 2015. I hold a current state license in Speech-Language Pathology from the Louisiana Board of Examiners, as well as a nationally recognized Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) issued by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). I currently serve as a diagnostician in a local French immersion public school, but I also work with adults at University Medical Center-New Orleans in the outpatient rehab center. Recently, I launched my own practice where I treat private clients.
Study Skills

Study Skills

As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I have developed a particular set of skills that enable me to provide traditional and alternative methods of studying to achieve success on most standardized tests. In addition, I have personal experience (and success) with graduate level examinations and standardized tests, such as the GRE. With over 10 years experience in charter schools, I am also familiar with standardized testing procedures, theory, and best-practices.

Summer

Elementary (K-6th),

Elementary (K-6th)

Elementary school is a very important time for students. It's the period when they develop the foundational knowledge that will be crucial for success in middle school and beyond. As an SLP with ancillary teacher certification, I'm not only familiar with Common Core Curriculum, I'm also well trained to break it down step-by-step.
Reading,

Reading

I am trained in Reading Mastery SRA Signature Edition Program, Lively Letters; experienced in Linda Mood-Bell techniques (Visualizing and Verbalizing), Davis Method, and more. Most importantly, I use my own expertise to create a dynamic and personalized program just for your child.
Spanish,

Spanish

I’m a level B2 on the McGraw-Hill international fluency assessment. I’ve clocked over 1,500 hours of study, and I attend a weekly Spanish conversation group. I’ve completed both the Pimsleur and the Rosetta Stone program. But the truth is, none of that means anything for people who are only in their first few years of learning Spanish, which is why I believe it’s extremely important to begin Spanish with the right foundation. If you’re studying independently, I can show you a different approach — one that more resembles natural language acquisition. If you’re bound to the school-based curriculum, I can show you how to use a number of memory and association techniques to your advantage. I use pattern-based learning because it’s the way we learn in the real world. And most importantly, it’ll be fun.
Study Skills,

Study Skills

As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I have developed a particular set of skills that enable me to provide traditional and alternative methods of studying to achieve success on most standardized tests. In addition, I have personal experience (and success) with graduate level examinations and standardized tests, such as the GRE. With over 10 years experience in charter schools, I am also familiar with standardized testing procedures, theory, and best-practices.
Writing

Writing

Most people believe writing to be a spontaneously learned ability; that it just happens after reading a lot. I'm glad to say that's not true. Writing is a skill, and like any other skill in the world it can be learned. Using a few basic principles, I guarantee you'll see an improvement in your writing.

Examples of Expertise

Mike has provided examples of their subject expertise by answering 5 questions submitted by students on Wyzant’s Ask an Expert.

See all of Mike ’s answers ›

Ratings and Reviews

Rating

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Reviews

Lots of tips and tricks

I really wanted tips and tricks so I could quickly do in-home casual speech therapy with my child. I'm not an SLP but I wanted as much help for my child as possible after school. I got exactly that from Mike and other awesome tactics. He's also very responsive so that's been a huge relief - otherwise you're stuck with a problem you can't resolve and it's demoralizing.

Silvia, 82 lessons with Mike
Hourly Rate: $120
Response time: 5 hours
Contact Mike