Dr. Maria Diana, PhD.

Maria Diana, Ph.D., LDT-C, OG-T, has dedicated the past 18 years to serving K–12 students in New Jersey public and private schools. She earned her Doctor of Education in Teaching, Learning, Leadership, & Curriculum in 2020 from Montclair State University, where her groundbreaking research focused on lifelong learning challenges, the interplay between learning difficulties and cognitive function, and comprehensive diagnostic assessments. Maria's academic journey is distinguished by a special degree program she designed, integrating coursework and research in Special Education, Educational Psychology, and Reading Literacy. She also holds a dual master's in Special Education and Reading Literacy with an emphasis on learning and cognition from Montclair State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from Rider University. Her commitment to delivering the highest standards of instruction to individuals with dyslexia inspired her to earn the prestigious Orton-Gillingham Dyslexia Therapist endorsement from Fairleigh Dickinson University. As a Certified Clinician through the Center for Cognitive Enhancement (COGc), Maria has developed expertise in cognitive skills training and its impact on learning. This certification signifies advanced training in identifying and remediating cognitive processing difficulties to support academic success. With over 2,400 hours of hands-on experience delivering effective, evidence-based cognitive and educational programs, Maria has achieved proven success in helping students overcome challenges and reach their potential. Maria's professional expertise extends to educational testing, special education instruction, private Orton-Gillingham tutoring, Executive Function coaching, parent coaching, and professional development workshops. Most notably, she has authored a curriculum specifically targeting Executive Function skills, designed to empower students in mastering essential strategies for organization, focus, self-regulation, and problem-solving. Currently, Maria serves as an LDT-C (Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant) and a valued member of the Child Study Team (CST) at a charter school in Jersey City. In this role, she evaluates students for academic learning disabilities and collaborates with teachers to provide targeted support for these students. Her work ensures that every child receives individualized strategies and accommodations to thrive academically. Maria's passion for making a difference is also deeply personal. As a mother of two young children and a devoted wife, she understands the profound impact early intervention and supportive education can have on a family. Her own son has benefited from early intervention services in occupational and speech therapy, shaping her empathy and commitment to ensuring every child receives the support they need to reach their full potential. Her experiences include guiding children, their teachers, and parents through the challenges posed by various learning disabilities, including those often co-occurring with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Anxiety. Driven by a passion for fostering resilience and a lifelong love of learning, Maria employs a unique, multisensory approach tailored to individual needs. This includes compensatory learning strategies, cognitive remediation, study and memory techniques, and remedial instruction in reading, math, and writing. Today, she remains dedicated to working with students individually and empowering families, with the ultimate goal of making a meaningful difference in every family’s life through her innovative methodologies and comprehensive educational solutions.