Melissa Bachmann, Ed.S., NCSP is an Illinois licensed and Nationally Certified School Psychologist. Melissa earned an Education Specialist degree in Child, Family, and School Psychology from the University of Denver after receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Ohio University. Throughout her career, Melissa has worked extensively with diverse student populations, including those with learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, and mental health issues. She has conducted numerous psychoeducational evaluations for students in early childhood programs through high school, as well as evaluated adults to assist with accessing accommodations for college. Melissa utilizes a holistic approach to assessment and intervention, rooted in current evidence based academic and behavioral practices. She is passionate about using a strength-based lens when discussing student abilities and needs to challenge deficit beliefs about students.

Melissa’s background working in schools and therapeutic settings has facilitated knowledge for academic support systems, school-based interventions, IEPs, and Section 504 plans. She has experience working on and with multidisciplinary teams and is committed to collaborating with both families and schools. Melissa utilizes data from multiple sources to guide decisions, improve instruction, and enhance student learning. She has provided leadership with the development and implementation of academic and behavioral interventions, eligibility and placement determinations, and direct social skill development with students. She has worked closely with parents, guardians, teachers, and school personnel in order to determine how to best support the academic, behavioral, and social emotional needs of students. This background also allows for seamless integration of evaluation results and findings into practical, individualized recommendations for interventions to maximize each child’s potential. Throughout the evaluation process, Melissa ensures that parents and guardians feel heard and supported, and provides the resources they need to understand their child’s unique learning profile.

Melissa is an active member of the National Associate of School Psychologists (NASP) and is a certified Restorative Practices Trainer through the International Institute of Restorative Practices (IIRP). She has trained district leadership teams, school personnel, and community organizations in order to improve outcomes for children and families. Melissa has also led training sessions for teachers and parents on executive functioning, social emotional learning, trauma informed practices, and crisis intervention.

Melissa was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio and relocated to Chicago with her family while finishing her undergraduate coursework. She recently moved back to the Chicago area after living in Colorado for 7 years. Melissa and her family reside in Wheaton, where her children are beginning their elementary school experiences. Melissa has a compassionate approach when working with children and families and appreciates the opportunity to be a part of their learning journey!