Patient Literacy + SEL tutor for Neurodivergent Learners

Mariko D.

I have over 15 years of experience supporting children in early childhood education, special education settings, and behavioral and social-emotional learning programs. My background includes working closely with neurodivergent learners—students with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, anxiety, cPTSD, behavioral challenges, and a wide range of learning profiles. I draw from trauma-informed practices, play-based methods, Collaborative Problem Solving, and developmentally appropriate literacy instruction to help students feel safe, understood, and capable.

I currently work in a specialized K–12 SPED program supporting students with significant emotional and behavioral needs. In this role, I provide structured literacy support, reading interventions, and individualized learning plans based on each student’s strengths and goals. I also have experience as a behavior therapist, early childhood educator, and social-emotional specialist, which allows me to integrate regulation skills, confidence-building, and positive reinforcement into my tutoring style. My approach is gentle, patient, and flexible—I adapt instruction to meet learners exactly where they are.

My tutoring sessions focus on reducing stress, increasing engagement, and building foundational skills in reading, writing, comprehension, and executive-function strategies. I believe every child can thrive with the right support, and I work to create a space where neurodivergent learners feel successful and valued. I look forward to helping your child grow at their own pace and rediscover confidence in their learning.