Today we’d like to introduce you to Jackie Gaither.
Hi Jackie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Growing up with a brother with special needs made me realize the true need for passionate, honest, and caring individuals in the field of Special Education. I knew I wanted to work with children, so after obtaining a Bachelor’s degree from the College of Charleston, I pursued a graduate degree in School Psychology from The Citadel and became a school psychologist. This has allowed me to work in the public schools with children of varying ages and needs, helping them on their educational journey. After working with our preschool population for the past few years, I have realized the need for more accurate diagnostic evaluations, especially in the area of autism. Some of our families are on waitlists for autism evaluations for years, which delays much needed early intervention services, at a time when early intervention is key. By opening my practice, I hope to guide families through this journey of early diagnosis to effective and helpful therapies and resources for themselves and their children.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Opening a business is difficult. There are many things that needed to be done that we weren’t familiar with, and had to learn along the way. Thankfully, my husband has the patience and interest to watch numerous YouTube videos on business types, Quickbooks strategies, and marketing techniques, which have helped me to finally open my doors. I most certainly could not have done this without him.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a licensed psycho-educational specialist, and certified school psychologist, I work with children, teens, and adults to explore the possibility of a variety of concerns, such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, developmental delays, giftedness and learning disabilities. Through evaluation, I can help individuals examine their strengths and areas of need in their cognitive abilities and academics, or in their work and personal lives, then provide resources and strategies for their areas of need. I can diagnose common difficulties, such as ADHD in children and adults, as well as depression and anxiety, and guide families towards help, so that they can lead more productive and happier lives. I especially love working with preschoolers and their families to examine the presence of Autism, or helping to clarify the potential for a different diagnosis.
I pride myself in being ethical, honest, efficient and driven, which allows me to do God’s work in helping others through my expertise and knowledge. It gives me pride and purpose to be able to help others who are struggling with questions to find answers.
What makes you happy?
In my work, I find happiness when the people I work with leave feeling relief. Many people come to me because they didn’t know where else to go, or where to start with their many questions and needs. If clients can hang up the phone after that initial call with me and feel a sense of relief that I can help them on their path in life, then I have succeeded.
Pricing:
- Autism Evaluations – $2000
- ADHD – child/teen – $1200
- ADHD- adult – varies depending on needs
- Learning Disabilities – $1800
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.SoaringMindsEvals.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579554879711
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-gaither-ed-s-ncsp-lpes-73017333/
