Science-based support to TARGET reading and spelling for all learners

Michelle Chadwick

Psychologist/ Tutor/

Literacy Consultant

Motivating and fun approach by an experienced, caring psychologist in Southern Tasmania

I provide literacy intervention/ consultation for any individual with or without neurodivergence like Specific Learning Disorders (SLD)/ dyslexia/ dysgraphia, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). I have 27 years experience with learning intervention and assessment for people with a wide range of disabilities and learning profiles. As a psychologist, I understand the emotional issues that come with literacy challenges and I also understand the crucial skill components and brain science involved in literacy learning.

Maximising success with the science of learning and literacy

My approach is informed by my high-level training and experience in the science of literacy instruction and the science of learning, the best current evidence, regular progress monitoring assessment, and the needs of the learner and their family. I use the principles of Data-Based Individualisation and Mastery Learning to always ensure a high level of success - if it's not working, I change the approach. Depending on the child's needs, I use the best elements of several approaches including UFLI, Sounds-Write, Orton Gillingham, Word Connections and PhOrMES. I'm happy to provide further information about my background and training.

Flexible and accountable service to suit your needs

 I have flexible arrangements for venue (e.g. home, clinic room, library) to take into account  your needs and circumstances and travel costs. NDIS funding and/ or Medicare and Private Health Insurance rebates may apply.  I collaborate with other skilled providers to offer flexible arrangements that suit your family. Please contact me for further information about my fees and policies. My practice as a psychologist has a high level of accountability to ensure ethical service as an interventionist. Please see my Privacy Policy here.
who may benefit from this service?

Virtually everyone can learn to read and write, with a science-based approach

About 5% of people may have great difficulty, but research here and here shows success with even severely impaired learners


All ages

I see children, adolescents and adults who need support with reading and spelling skills.


All neuro-diverse conditions

I work with people with learning profiles ranging from neuro-typical to severe disabilities.

All families

I offer assessment and intervention options that suit a range of families with varying circumstances. Options include intensive tutoring of the learner (one or more times per week),  screening / progress monitoring assessment, and short-term consultation with caregivers or others to help them support the learner.

Please note: at this stage I do not offer:

  • diagnostic assessments

  • mental health support (except when directly related to literacy learning)

Send a message
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Contact me

To see how I may help

9 Judith Drive, Lenah Valley, Tasmania

0427090379

michellenissen75@gmail.com

Hours: Mon & Tues 9am -6 pm, Wed 1pm to 6pm

Useful Information/ Resources

by Michelle Chadwick

Click here for a school funding submission (31/01/23) for early reading books that are based on a science-based approach to reading instruction. Most schools have a great need for these books. Please feel free to use this as a template to apply for similar funding at your local school. Update April 2023: The submission was successful!

See my Decodable Book Swap Hobart for free access to these important books.

Click here for suggested priorities for changing the system of Tasmanian literacy instruction. This is an email I sent (01/02/23) to a senior advisor to the premier who is responsible for literacy. Some may find it helpful for understanding the issues and priorities in Tasmania, which are similar in other states and territories (and around the world) to varying degrees. It may also be helpful background information for those wishing to facilitate change in Tasmania or other places in Australia/ internationally. Update June 2023: The government has committed to many similar recommendations (due to the collective effort of many dedicated and skilled people).

See here ,  here  and here for other articles I have written to promote literacy for all.