At San Antonio Pediatric & Adolescent Neuropsychology Specialists (SAPANS), we offer executive functioning coaching to help children and adolescents develop the skills they need to succeed in school, daily life, and future careers. Executive functioning skills are essential for planning, organization, time management, problem-solving, and self-regulation—all of which impact a child's ability to complete tasks, manage responsibilities, and work independently.

Executive functioning challenges are common in individuals with:

• ADHD or attention difficulties

• Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia)

• Difficulty with organization, planning, and task initiation

• Emotional regulation difficulties (e.g., frustration tolerance, impulsivity)

• Challenges with schoolwork, homework completion, and test preparation

Students who struggle with time management, procrastination, staying focused, and following multi-step directions often benefit from structured coaching to improve independence and self-management.

We use cirriculum-based programs to teach practical strategies that help children and adolescents improve organization, time management, and emotional control. Coaching sessions focus on:

✔ Breaking down large tasks into manageable steps
✔ Creating and maintaining structured routines
✔ Learning strategies for staying focused and reducing distractions
✔ Developing problem-solving and flexible thinking skills
✔ Improving impulse control and frustration tolerance
✔ Enhancing study skills, note-taking, and test preparation techniques

We incorporate structured, research-supported curricula, including:

• Unstuck and On Target (Ages 8–15) – Focuses on flexible thinking, goal-setting, and self-monitoring to help children become more adaptable and independent.

• Zones of Regulation (Ages 4–11) – Teaches emotional regulation, impulse control, and self-awareness, helping children understand their emotions and manage their reactions.

Executive functioning coaching is primarily provided by Ms. Julie Velez, MA, a bilingual certified special education teacher with expertise in working with children with ADHD, autism, and behavioral challenges.

Our neuropsychologist also offers executive functioning coaching in a family therapy format, where parents and children work together to develop and reinforce strategies at home.

Executive functioning coaching is not typically covered by insurance when provided by a special education teacher. However, when working with our neuropsychologist, coaching is delivered in a family therapy model, which may allow for coverage under mental health benefits.

If insurance does not cover the service, you may be able to fund it through:

• Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) – Some families can use HSA/FSA funds, particularly if they have a doctor’s referral and an existing diagnosis of ADHD, autism, or a learning disorder.

• Private Pay – Families may choose to self-pay if other funding sources are unavailable.

We recommend checking with your insurance provider to determine if any benefits apply to executive functioning coaching.

If your child struggles with organization, time management, planning, or emotional regulation, executive functioning coaching can help. Request an appointment through our website or contact us for more information on how we can support your child’s success.