We recently connected with Tony Fuad and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Tony, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory of how you established your own practice.

Setting up my private practice as a licensed educational psychologist was a journey filled with unique challenges that tested my determination and resilience. One of the initial hurdles was navigating the administrative complexities and legal requirements. Establishing a solid legal framework, obtaining the necessary permits, and ensuring compliance with regulations demanded meticulous attention to detail and patience. Financial considerations loomed large as I worked to secure funding for my practice. From securing startup capital to managing ongoing expenses, the financial aspect required careful planning and budgeting. Balancing the costs of office space, equipment, and marketing, while ensuring the quality of services was a continuous challenge. Building a client base from scratch was another uphill task. Marketing strategies had to be developed and executed effectively to reach potential clients. Creating awareness about the services I offered, establishing trust within the community, and fostering relationships with schools and other professionals in the field were crucial steps in attracting clients. Moreover, the emotional weight of the responsibility I held added to the challenge. Being solely responsible for the success of my practice, the welfare of my clients, and the reputation I was building required not just professional expertise but also emotional resilience. Overcoming these obstacles demanded perseverance and a strong belief in my abilities. As I gradually conquered each challenge, I gained invaluable experience and a deeper understanding of the nuances of running a private practice. Despite the hurdles, the ability to make a tangible difference in the lives of my clients made every challenge worth overcoming.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

As a licensed educational psychologist, my role revolves around understanding and supporting the diverse needs of students, educators, and families within educational settings. I conduct assessments to identify learning disabilities, cognitive strengths and weaknesses, and emotional or behavioral issues that may impact learning. Through these evaluations, I provide tailored recommendations and interventions to optimize students’ learning experiences. Collaborating with teachers, parents, and other professionals, I develop strategies to address learning difficulties, behavioral challenges, and social-emotional needs. I offer counseling, guidance, and support to students dealing with academic, social, or emotional struggles, fostering their well-being and academic success. Additionally, I often provide guidance to educators on creating inclusive environments and implementing effective teaching strategies that cater to diverse learning styles. Ultimately, my aim as a licensed educational psychologist is to enhance the overall educational experience by advocating for the mental health, well-being, and academic achievement of all students.

I entered this field because I have a passion for helping others learn. As a student who struggled to achieve the most of his potential in school, I became very curious as to how to best understand my own talents, as well as the natural strengths and abilities of others.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

The most important quality to have as Licensed Educational Psychologist is the care that you bring to each client. Helping clients and students feel comfortable is at the core of every successful interaction.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I became overwhelmed working in inner-city schools, I decided that I wanted to avoid the bureaucracy and start investing in my own practice. I wanted to help students directly succeed rather than have to go through many layers of resistance. Helping people achieve their academic potential is at the core of my practice.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.socaledupsych.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552418408264
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-fuad-7799801b8/