Speakers Bureau

Michael Rizzo, Ph.D. is a regionally-acclaimed school neuropsychologist and motivational speaker. He has become recognized as a regional expert in the diagnosis and treatment of at-risk children. Dr. Rizzo is available to host a wide-array of speaking engagements, with presentation topics that can be adjusted to accommodate the needs of the group audience.

Introduction to one of Dr.Rizzo's Presentations

Upon booking Dr. Rizzo at your next event, he can tailor his presentation towards your individual needs.

brief summary and goals of a typical presentation that Dr. Rizzo would provide:

Research from neuroscience has clearly determined that each of us have a range of strengths and weaknesses among the numerous brain functions (information processing skills) that influence learning. The unique blend of these cognitive “traits” influence how we learn. As teachers gain greater insight into diverse learning patterns, they are better equipped to understand and teach to the learning style of individual students.

Other fields are racing to leverage these new scientific insights into how people learn and think; advertising agencies, videogame developers, marketing companies, and telecommunication and tech companies are just a few. However, in most schools, and even colleges, teachers have not yet been afforded the opportunity to embrace or apply the current understanding of learning theory in any significant or systematic way.

As a consequence, a significant number of students struggle needlessly, simply because the way they learn doesn’t align with how they are being taught. In many cases, these students lose interest in school, see themselves as failures, and become difficult in the classroom, both to teach and to manage. Even more concerning is the resulting anxiety, self-doubt, and depression that often accompanies the struggling student.

The goals of this presentation include:

  • Provide a basic understanding of the learning process and the neuropsychological constructs underlying learning.
  • Understand the link (interactional effect) between the struggling learner, poor executive function skills, and poor emotional regulation skills.
  • Understand the relationship between well-established neuropsychological constructs underlying learning and curriculum delivery and assessment techniques.
  • Develop reasonable classroom modifications to maximize the potential of individual students based on their learning style, without compromising the integrity of the learning of other students.
  • Help those who do not read, write, or do math as well as their peers to not be blocked from their dream and maintain their self-esteem.

How it Works: Step by Step

Consultation & Scheduling

Call us or request a consultation through our website form. Our intake coordinator will explain the evaluation process, answer your questions, and find the best time for your child. To make our services accessible, our fees are structured based on the psychologist's experience (ranging from intern to senior licensed psychologist).

Gathering Insights

We'll ask you and your child's teachers to complete background information and rating scales. This helps us gain a comprehensive understanding.

Your Child's Evaluation

Your child will engage in 4-6 hours of assessments with a psychologist, usually spread over several sessions to ensure their comfort. Our goal is to highlight their strengths and identify areas where they might need support, making them feel comfortable and capable throughout.

Sharing Results & Planning

Within two weeks after testing, we'll meet with you to discuss the findings and create a personalized plan to help your child thrive. For older students, we may also suggest a meeting with them to discuss their strengths and how to best support their development.

Partnering with the School

If you wish and the school agrees, we'll collaborate in a meeting with the psychologist, parents, and school staff. This meeting will focus on your child's learning profile, strengths, and appropriate support strategies to help them reach their full potential.

Ready to see how we can help?