Compassionate IEP Advocacy, Parent Support, and Behavior ConsultationNavigating special education and behavior challenges can feel overwhelming—but you don't have to do it alone.At Thrive & Shine Consulting, I partner with families and educators to simplify the special education process, build confidence, and create practical, evidence-based solutions that help children succeed at home, at school, and in the community.Whether you're preparing for your first IEP meeting, struggling to understand your child's educational rights, or looking for positive behavior strategies that actually work, I'm here to provide guidance every step of the way.

My name is Alessa Foley. I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and certified Special Education teacher located in Southern Maine.I have eight years of experience teaching special education across public and private K–12 settings with a primary focus on supporting elementary-age students with social, emotional, and behavioral challenges.My experience includes working with learners with learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, social-emotional disabilities, and trauma-related needs. These roles have given me a deep understanding of how behavior, learning, and the environment intersect and how critical it is to individualize supports.I strongly believe that caregivers are their children's strongest advocates, and I strive to empower families with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate behavior challenges and school systems with confidence. Collaboration, respect, and compassion are at the core of my work, and my goal is always to support lasting, meaningful change.