Educational Consultation & Special Education Expertise

Bringing together clinical insight and deep educational experience to help families navigate special education with clarity, confidence, and results.

About our educational services

With over 20 years of experience in education, Eric Neithardt, LCSW, PLLC brings a deep understanding of how academic, social, emotional, and behavioral challenges can affect a student’s ability to thrive in school. Having served as a School Social Worker, Committee on Special Education (CSE) Chairperson, and Special Education Administrator, Eric offers a rare and comprehensive perspective on the supports students need to succeed.

Eric works closely with families to navigate the often complex world of special education. He helps parents understand the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process, ensuring that each plan reflects the student’s unique needs with clearly defined, relevant, and measurable goals. His experience spans working with students from kindergarten through age 21, making him uniquely qualified to support children and young adults across all stages of development.

As part of his consultation services, Eric offers:

  • In-depth reviews of IEPs and Section 504 Plans
  • Analysis of progress monitoring data
  • Participation in CSE and 504 meetings
  • Guidance on eligibility criteria and appropriate service recommendations
  • In-depth reviews of Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs)
  • In-depth reviews of Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs)

Why work with me?

I provide a comprehensive, dual-expertise approach that blends clinical insight with firsthand knowledge of how schools operate — offering a unique perspective to support students, families, and educators.

  • NYS Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • Over 20 years of clinical experience treating children, adolescents, and families
  • Over 20 years in public education, uniquely qualifying me to understand school systems from the inside
  • Former School Social Worker — deep understanding of school-based mental health needs
  • Former Special Education Administrator — firsthand knowledge of how educational systems function
  • Former CSE/504 Chairperson — extensive experience developing, implementing, and monitoring IEPs and 504 Plans
  • Expert in the social, emotional, and behavioral needs of students — and how these impact learning
  • Strategic, systems-level thinker — I treat children therapeutically while coordinating with educators for sustainable support
  • Experienced advocate — I participate in CSE and 504 meetings, speaking the language of schools and supporting realistic, effective plans
  • Skilled in customizing accommodations based on medical and mental health needs
  • Highly responsive, professional communication — reliable follow-through and clear collaboration with families and schools
  • Evidence-based therapeutic approaches with a practical, results-driven mindset
  • True value-added service — few professionals combine clinical expertise with administrative-level insight in special education

I bridge the gap between therapy and education.

As a clinician who’s also been a decision-maker in schools, I know what your child needs — and how to make it happen inside the classroom.

There is help.

Whether you’re seeking clarity on your child’s IEP or need expert input during the special education process, Eric is committed to advocating for effective, individualized support that promotes student growth and success.

Move forward